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Analog Devices Inc. LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF
- Part No.:
- LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Category:
- DC DC Switching Controllers
- Package:
- 16-TFSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG CTRLR BUCK 16MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,090
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Product details
Overview
LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a synchronous step-down switching regulator controller optimized for high-frequency operation and fast transient response in wide-input industrial and communications power supplies. It features valley current mode control without external sense resistors, ±1% 0.6V reference, 43ns minimum on-time, and supports input voltages from 4V to 38V with output regulation from 0.6V to 90% VIN - enabling high step-down ratio designs such as 12V-to-1.2V conversion at 15A.
For engineers reviewing the LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF datasheet, LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF pinout, LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF application, or LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF equivalent, key selection criteria include its No RSENSE™ architecture, programmable current limit with foldback, dual N-channel MOSFET synchronous drive capability, and compatibility with low-ESR ceramic output capacitors in compact 16-pin MSOP packaging.
Technical Context
The LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF implements constant on-time valley current mode control, eliminating need for slope compensation or external current-sense resistors by using bottom MOSFET RDS(ON) for valley current sensing. Its tON(MIN) of 43ns enables stable operation at high step-down ratios and low duty cycles down to ~10%.
Operating frequency is set via resistor-connected ION pin and compensated for VIN variations to maintain line stability; MODE pin selects forced continuous or discontinuous conduction mode; VRNG pin configures valley current sense threshold between 22mV and 98mV; and TRACK/SS supports soft-start ramping or external voltage tracking.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 4V to 38V - supports wide-range industrial and telecom inputs including 5V, 12V, 24V, and 36V rails. |
| Output Voltage Range | 0.6V to 90% VIN - enables precise low-voltage core supplies (e.g., 1.2V, 1.8V) with high step-down flexibility. |
| Reference Voltage Accuracy | ±1% at 0.6V - ensures tight output regulation critical for CPU/GPU and FPGA core power applications. |
| Minimum On-Time | 43ns typical - allows stable 1.2V output from 12V input at 400kHz with ~10% duty cycle. |
| Valley Current Sense Threshold | Adjustable 22mV–98mV via VRNG pin - enables optimization for MOSFET RDS(ON) and thermal margin. |
| Quiescent Current | 1350μA typical - balances light-load efficiency and startup responsiveness in always-on systems. |
| Shutdown Current | 18μA maximum - supports ultra-low-power standby modes in battery-backed or energy-sensitive designs. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 16-lead plastic MSOP (MSE), thermally enhanced with exposed SGND pad (Pin 17) requiring PCB soldering for thermal and electrical integrity. θJA = 40°C/W.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| TRACK/SS (1) | Soft-start & tracking input | Internal 1μA pull-up; capacitor sets ramp time or resistor divider enables output voltage tracking of external rail. |
| PGOOD (2) | Open-drain power-good monitor | Asserts low when VOUT deviates >±10% from regulation point; provides system sequencing and fault signaling. |
| VRNG (3) | VDS sense range control | Sets max valley current sense threshold as 0.133×VRNG (22–98mV); tied to SGND or INTVCC for fixed thresholds. |
| MODE (4) | Conduction mode select | SGND = forced continuous mode; INTVCC = automatic DCM for light-load efficiency improvement. |
| ITH (5) | Error amplifier output & current limit control | Voltage (0–2.4V) sets valley current comparator threshold; also serves as compensation node for loop stability. |
| SGND (6) | Signal ground reference | Reference for all analog circuitry; must be connected to PGND via single-point trace to avoid noise coupling. |
| ION (7) | On-time programming input | Resistor from VIN sets one-shot timer current; determines switching frequency with VIN compensation. |
| VFB (8) | Feedback input | Connects to resistor divider from VOUT; regulates output by comparing to 0.6V internal reference. |
| RUN (9) | Enable/disable control | <0.7V = micropower shutdown (18μA); 0.7–1.5V = bias enabled, no switching; >1.5V = full operation. |
| VIN (10) | Main input supply | 4–38V input rail; requires RC filter to PGND for noise immunity in noisy industrial environments. |
| INTVCC (11) | Internal 5.3V regulator output | Powers gate drivers and control logic; requires ≥1μF X5R/X7R ceramic decoupling to PGND. |
| BG (12) | Bottom gate driver output | Drives gate of synchronous N-MOSFET between PGND and INTVCC; 0.7Ω pull-down resistance. |
| PGND (13) | Power ground return | Low-impedance return path for bottom MOSFET source, CIN, and CINTVCC; must be placed near MOSFET source. |
| SW (14) | Switch node | Connects to source of top MOSFET and (–) terminal of bootstrap capacitor; swings from –0.3V to VIN. |
| TG (15) | Top gate driver output | Drives gate of high-side N-MOSFET between SW and BOOST; 2.5Ω pull-up/pull-down resistance. |
| BOOST (16) | Bootstrap supply | Connects to (+) terminal of bootstrap capacitor; floats with SW to enable high-side gate drive above VIN. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| No RSENSE™ valley current sensing | Eliminates external sense resistor and associated power loss, PCB area, and thermal drift - uses bottom MOSFET RDS(ON) for current measurement. |
| Programmable current limit with foldback | Protects against short-circuit faults by reducing current limit setpoint when VOUT drops below 50% regulation - prevents thermal runaway during sustained overloads. |
| Stable with low-ESR ceramic output capacitors | Enables use of compact, high-reliability X5R/X7R MLCCs instead of bulkier electrolytics - reduces solution size and improves transient response. |
| Smooth start-up into pre-biased output | Allows safe powering of downstream circuits already holding residual voltage - prevents reverse current flow and potential damage to load components. |
| Dual N-channel MOSFET synchronous drive | Integrated 2.5Ω TG and 0.7Ω BG drivers reduce external component count and improve efficiency over diode-based synchronous rectification. |
Applications
| Telecom Point-of-Load (POL) | Industrial FPGA Core Supply |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 48V intermediate bus stepped down to 1.2V/15A for ASIC/FPGA core logic in 5G base station radio units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary step-down controller managing high-current, low-voltage regulation with fast load transient response to digital logic activity. Use Value: 43ns tON(MIN) enables stable 1.2V output from 48V input at high frequency; No RSENSE eliminates sense resistor losses in space-constrained RF modules. |
Use Scenario: 24V factory automation rail converted to 1.8V/10A for industrial-grade FPGA I/O banks with strict ripple and sequencing requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Synchronous buck controller providing tightly regulated, low-noise power with programmable soft-start and power-good signaling. Use Value: ±1% 0.6V reference and PGOOD output ensure reliable FPGA configuration and reset timing; TRACK/SS enables coordinated rail sequencing with auxiliary supplies. |
| Embedded Computing Power | Communications Infrastructure DC/DC |
Use Scenario: 12V automotive or railway-derived supply converted to 3.3V/8A for ARM-based edge computing modules operating in extended temperature ranges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-efficiency, wide-input controller supporting forced continuous mode for consistent EMI profile in safety-critical embedded systems. Use Value: MODE pin forces CCM operation to eliminate audible noise and frequency modulation; 4–38V input range accommodates unregulated vehicle/bus transients. |
Use Scenario: 36V PoE++ midspan or central office supply delivering 5V/6A to optical line terminals with high reliability and thermal resilience. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust step-down controller with output overvoltage protection and adjustable current limit for mission-critical infrastructure equipment. Use Value: Output OVP and foldback current limiting prevent catastrophic failure during cable faults or connector shorts; QFN/MSOP packages support automated assembly and thermal management. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-down controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LTC3891EMSE#TRPBF | Wider 4.5V–60V input range; integrated LDO for bias; no VRNG pin; fixed 50mV current sense threshold. | Better suited for higher-input industrial systems (e.g., 48V DC distribution) but lacks VRNG adjustability for MOSFET optimization. | Select when input exceeds 38V or integrated bias LDO is required; not drop-in due to different pinout and current sense architecture. |
| MP2918GL-Z | 4.5V–32V input; 0.6V reference; valley current mode; no VRNG; fixed 30mV sense threshold; lower quiescent current (120μA). | Optimized for cost-sensitive consumer/computing POLs; lacks PGOOD, TRACK/SS, and foldback protection. | Choose for simpler, lower-cost designs where advanced protection and sequencing are not required; not pin-compatible. |
Compared with LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF, LTC3891EMSE#TRPBF extends input voltage capability at the expense of VRNG configurability, while MP2918GL-Z reduces BOM cost and quiescent power but omits critical system-level features like power-good monitoring and programmable current foldback.
Availability
LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for distributed power systems, embedded computing platforms, and communications infrastructure requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (–40°C to 85°C) and long-term production continuity.
Supply support for LTC3879EMSE#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. (ADI) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management semiconductors, formed through the acquisition of Linear Technology in 2017.
The LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF belongs to ADI's high-efficiency synchronous buck controller product line, designed specifically for demanding industrial, telecom, and embedded power applications requiring wide input range, fast transient response, and robust protection features.
FAQ
What is the minimum on-time specification for the LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF and why does it matter?
The LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF has a minimum on-time (tON(MIN)) of 43ns typical. This parameter determines the lowest achievable duty cycle and thus the smallest output voltage attainable from a given input - for example, enabling stable 1.2V output from a 12V input at 400kHz. It directly impacts design feasibility for high step-down ratio applications common in CPU, GPU, and FPGA core supplies.
How does the VRNG pin affect current sensing in the LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF?
The VRNG pin on the LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF sets the maximum valley current sense threshold as 0.133 × VRNG, allowing adjustment from 22mV to 98mV. This enables optimization for specific MOSFET RDS(ON) values and thermal margins - e.g., tying VRNG to SGND yields ~30mV threshold, while connecting to INTVCC gives ~75mV - ensuring accurate current limiting across temperature and process variation.
Can the LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF operate with a pre-biased output, and how is this enabled?
Yes, the LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF supports smooth start-up into a pre-biased output. This is achieved through internal circuitry that prevents reverse current flow during startup by monitoring the feedback node and controlling gate drive timing. No external components are required - the feature is inherent to the controller's valley current mode architecture and RUN pin sequencing behavior.
What is the purpose of the MODE pin on the LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF, and how does it impact efficiency?
The MODE pin on the LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF selects between forced continuous conduction mode (CCM) and automatic discontinuous conduction mode (DCM). When tied to SGND, it forces CCM for consistent EMI and predictable frequency; when tied to INTVCC, it enables DCM at light loads to reduce switching losses and improve light-load efficiency - critical for systems with variable or burst-mode workloads.
Does the LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF require an external current-sense resistor, and what alternatives does it use?
No, the LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF does not require an external current-sense resistor. It implements No RSENSE™ valley current mode control by measuring the voltage drop across the bottom N-channel MOSFET's RDS(ON) between SW and PGND pins. This eliminates power loss, board space, and thermal drift associated with discrete sense resistors while maintaining accurate current limiting and cycle-by-cycle protection.
LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-TFSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Output Type:
- Transistor Driver
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive or Negative
- Topology:
- Buck
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Output Phases:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 4V ~ 38V
- Frequency - Switching:
- -
- Duty Cycle (Max):
- -
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Clock Sync:
- No
- Serial Interfaces:
- -
- Control Features:
- Enable, Power Good, Soft Start, Tracking
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-MSOP-EP
LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF reliable?
The price and inventory of LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF?
LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF?
For technical support, including LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF?
All LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LTC3879EMSE#TRPBF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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