Analog Devices Inc. LTC3829EFE#TRPBF

Overview

LTC3829EFE#TRPBF from Analog Devices is a 3-phase, single-output synchronous step-down DC/DC controller driving triple N-channel MOSFETs with differential remote sensing, phase-lockable 250–770 kHz operation, ±0.75% 0.6 V reference accuracy, and programmable DCR temperature compensation - used in high-current telecom power distribution systems delivering up to 50 A at 1.2 V.

For engineers reviewing the LTC3829EFE#TRPBF datasheet, LTC3829EFE#TRPBF pinout, LTC3829EFE#TRPBF application, or LTC3829EFE#TRPBF equivalent, key selection considerations include its 38-pin TSSOP package with exposed pad, true remote sense differential amplifier (DIFFP/DIFFN/DIFFOUT), 3-phase interleaved current-mode control, and support for stage shedding, Burst Mode®, or forced continuous operation under light load conditions.

Technical Context

The LTC3829EFE#TRPBF implements a constant-frequency current-mode architecture with three independent PWM channels synchronized via internal phase offset or external PLLIN clock input. Each channel features dedicated SENSE+ and SENSE− inputs for RSENSE or DCR current sensing, with ISET- and ILIM-programmable current limit thresholds and nonlinear fast-transient response enabled by IFAST.

Its integrated differential amplifier (ADA = 0.997–1.003 V/V, GBW = 3 MHz) enables true point-of-load voltage regulation, while AVP pin supports active voltage positioning with 250 µA sink/2 mA source capability. The device operates across 4.5 V to 38 V input and delivers 0.6 V to 3.3 V output when using the diffamp, with precision 0.6 V feedback reference stable over –40°C to 125°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The LTC3829EFE#TRPBF is housed in a 38-lead plastic TSSOP (FE) package with exposed thermal pad (Pin 39 = SGND/PGND), requiring soldering to PCB for thermal and ground integrity. Pin pitch is 0.5 mm; body size is standard JEDEC MO-153.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multiphase synchronous buck controller applications.

Compared with LTC3883IUHF#TRPBF and MP2960AGQKT-Z, the LTC3829EFE#TRPBF uniquely combines analog precision (±0.75% ref), true remote sensing, AVP, and DCR temperature compensation in a pin-compatible 38-lead TSSOP - making it optimal for high-performance analog-controlled VRMs where deterministic timing and analog loop stability are prioritized over digital configurability.

Availability

LTC3829EFE#TRPBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecom power distribution, high-performance computing VRMs, and industrial DC power systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-compliant variants.

Supply support for LTC3829EFE#TRPBF includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets.

The LTC3829 belongs to Analog Devices' Power by Linear™ multiphase DC/DC controller family, designed specifically for high-current, low-voltage point-of-load regulation in servers, networking equipment, and automotive ADAS systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum output current supported by the LTC3829EFE#TRPBF in a typical 3-phase design?

The LTC3829EFE#TRPBF itself does not define a hard current limit - it controls external N-channel MOSFETs. In validated reference designs (e.g., 3829 TA01), it delivers 50 A at 1.2 V using 0.6 µH inductors and 0.002 Ω sense resistors. Actual current capability depends on MOSFET selection, layout, thermal design, and phase count. The LTC3829EFE#TRPBF supports up to 6-phase operation via CLKOUT/PLLIN for higher current scalability.

Does the LTC3829EFE#TRPBF require external components for differential remote sensing?

Yes - the LTC3829EFE#TRPBF requires an external resistive divider between DIFFOUT and VFB to scale the differential amplifier output to match the 0.6 V reference. DIFFP and DIFFN must be routed as a matched pair directly to the load terminals. No additional op-amps or compensation networks are needed, as the internal DIFFAMP includes 3 MHz GBW and 2 V/µs slew rate for fast transient response.

How does the LTC3829EFE#TRPBF implement Active Voltage Positioning (AVP)?

The LTC3829EFE#TRPBF implements AVP via the AVP pin (Pin 6), which sinks 250 µA or sources 2 mA depending on load current direction. When connected to DIFFP through a resistor, it generates a controlled voltage droop proportional to load current - improving transient response by pre-positioning the output voltage before load steps occur. The LTC3829EFE#TRPBF specifies VAVP–VO(MAX) ≤ 180 mV and supports up to 2.5 V on the AVP pin.

Can the LTC3829EFE#TRPBF operate with only two phases instead of three?

Yes - the LTC3829EFE#TRPBF supports 1-, 2-, or 3-phase configurations via pin-strapping and MODE pin selection. For 2-phase operation, unused SENSE+/SENSE− pairs and associated TG/BG/SW/BOOST pins are left unconnected. Phase timing remains interleaved (180° offset), and current balancing is maintained across active phases. The LTC3829EFE#TRPBF datasheet confirms functional operation with any subset of its three phases enabled.

What thermal considerations apply to the LTC3829EFE#TRPBF in the FE package?

The LTC3829EFE#TRPBF in the 38-lead TSSOP (FE) package has θJA = 25°C/W. To maintain TJ ≤ 125°C at full load, the exposed pad (Pin 39) must be soldered to ≥4 cm² of 2-oz copper with ≥4 thermal vias to inner ground planes. Junction temperature is calculated as TJ = TA + (PD × 25°C/W); typical power dissipation is <400 mW at 12 V input/1.2 V output/50 A. The LTC3829EFE#TRPBF includes thermal shutdown at TJ > 165°C.