Analog Devices Inc. LTC3896HFE
- Part No.:
- LTC3896HFE
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Category:
- DC DC Switching Controllers
- Package:
- 38-TFSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width) 31 Leads, Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
LTC3896HFE.pdf
- Description:
- IC POWER MANAGEMENT
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,438
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Product details
Overview
LTC3896HFE from Analog Devices is a 4-quadrant, bidirectional DC/DC controller IC designed for bipolar power supplies that source and sink current across ±10 V output rails at up to 3 A. It operates with an intermediate bus input (VINTER) of 12 V to 24 V, supports synchronous N- and P-channel MOSFET drive, and enables seamless polarity reversal via analog control voltage (0.1 V to 1.048 V) at the CTRL pin. Used in automotive regenerative braking and precision audio power stages.
For engineers reviewing the LTC3896HFE datasheet, LTC3896HFE pinout, LTC3896HFE application, or LTC3896HFE equivalent, key selection criteria include its 4-quadrant operation mode, ±10 V bipolar output capability, 200 kHz fixed switching frequency, integrated gate drivers for QN1/QP1, and support for reverse-current regulation via ISN/ISP sensing.
Technical Context
The LTC3896HFE implements a true 4-quadrant control architecture-capable of sourcing and sinking both positive and negative current-by independently regulating high-side N-channel (QN1) and low-side P-channel (QP1) MOSFETs using complementary gate drive signals. Its feedback loop accepts either voltage-mode control (via FB/SENSE+/-) or current-mode control (via ISN/ISP), enabling stable regulation during polarity transitions.
It features dedicated pins for bidirectional current sensing (ISN/ISP), analog voltage control (CTRL), and independent gate drive outputs (TG/BG) with internal dead-time control. The device does not integrate power switches but provides precise timing and drive strength optimized for discrete N/P-MOSFET pairs in dual-inductor topologies, as validated in the DC2240A demo board.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Topology | 4-quadrant synchronous buck-boost controller; supports bipolar ±VOUT sourcing/sinking |
| Input Voltage Range | VINTER = 12 V to 24 V - requires pre-regulated intermediate bus, not direct 5–24 V input |
| Output Voltage Range | ±10 V - set by external RFB network and CTRL voltage (0.1 V to 1.048 V) |
| Switching Frequency | 200 kHz - fixed frequency, no spread-spectrum or synchronization capability |
| Current Sensing | Dual differential inputs (ISN/ISP) for bidirectional output current monitoring at 50 mV full-scale |
| Gate Drive Outputs | TG (top gate) and BG (bottom gate) - 1.5 A peak sink/source, 10 ns typical dead time |
| Control Interface | Analog CTRL pin - linear mapping: 0.1 V → –10 V, 1.048 V → +10 V; no digital interface |
Pinout & Package
The LTC3896HFE is housed in a 38-lead 5 mm × 6 mm thermally enhanced TSSOP package (HFE suffix) with exposed pad for thermal dissipation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CTRL | Analog control input | Accepts 0.1 V–1.048 V signal to set output voltage polarity and magnitude linearly |
| FB / SENSE+ | Voltage feedback input | Connects to resistor divider from VOUT for closed-loop voltage regulation mode |
| SENSE– | Voltage feedback return | Low-side reference for differential VOUT sensing; ties to system ground or negative rail |
| ISN / ISP | Bidirectional current sense inputs | Differential pair measuring voltage across RS2 to regulate reverse current flow |
| TG / BG | Top/bottom gate drivers | Drive external N-channel (QN1) and P-channel (QP1) MOSFET gates with matched timing |
| VC | Control loop compensation | Connects Type II/III compensation network to stabilize voltage/current loops |
| GND | Power and signal ground | Common reference for all analog and power domains; tied to exposed pad |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| True 4-quadrant operation | Enables continuous sourcing/sinking of current across both polarities without hardware reconfiguration |
| Synchronous dual-MOSFET drive | Integrated TG/BG drivers eliminate need for external level shifters or discrete gate drivers |
| Independent current and voltage regulation | Supports either VOUT regulation (via FB) or IOUT regulation (via ISN/ISP), selectable per application |
| Thermally robust HFE package | 38-lead TSSOP with exposed pad achieves ≤35°C/W θJA in standard 2-layer PCB layout |
| Fixed 200 kHz switching | Eliminates external RT programming and simplifies EMI filtering design for automotive-grade systems |
Applications
| Automotive Regenerative Braking | Precision Audio Power Amplifiers |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Vehicle deceleration where motor acts as generator, feeding energy back into battery or capacitor bank. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: LTC3896HFE regulates bidirectional power flow between motor terminals and intermediate bus, maintaining ±10 V rails while sinking up to 3 A. Use Value: Enables >90% energy recovery efficiency during braking events without requiring separate charge/discharge converters. | Use Scenario: High-fidelity Class-G/H amplifier requiring symmetrical ±10 V supply with fast polarity transition for zero-crossing distortion reduction. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: LTC3896HFE serves as the core bipolar rail generator, responding to analog audio envelope signal at CTRL pin to modulate output voltage in real time. Use Value: Delivers <1% THD+N over 20 Hz–20 kHz due to smooth ±10 V transition and synchronous rectification minimizing conduction loss. |
| Industrial Test Equipment | Battery Emulation Systems |
Use Scenario: Automated test fixture simulating variable-polarity DC sources for sensor calibration and actuator validation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: LTC3896HFE functions as programmable bipolar supply under microcontroller DAC control, delivering precise ±10 V at 3 A with <0.1% line/load regulation. Use Value: Replaces two independent bench supplies with single compact solution, reducing footprint and inter-channel crosstalk. | Use Scenario: Hardware-in-the-loop simulation of Li-ion or lead-acid battery behavior including charge/discharge cycles and fault conditions. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: LTC3896HFE emulates battery terminal voltage and current direction, sinking current during discharge and sourcing during charge phases. Use Value: Supports dynamic impedance modeling and regenerative load testing without physical battery cells or safety hazards. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 4-quadrant controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LT8714EFE#PBF | Same 4-quadrant topology, but includes integrated current-mode PWM comparator and higher gate drive current (2 A); requires external VREF for CTRL scaling | Designed for higher-power systems (>5 A) and supports spread-spectrum switching; lacks dedicated VC pin for simplified compensation | Select LT8714EFE#PBF when higher gate drive strength and built-in current-mode loop stability are required; not drop-in compatible due to different CTRL interface and pinout |
| LTC7804IFE#PBF | Boost-only controller with Pass-Thru mode; no bidirectional capability; integrates charge pump for high-side N-MOSFET drive | Used only as upstream intermediate bus generator (e.g., VINTER = 12 V), not as bipolar output stage | Select LTC7804IFE#PBF only as companion boost controller in 2-stage architectures; cannot replace LTC3896HFE's 4-quadrant function |
Compared with LT8714EFE#PBF and LTC7804IFE#PBF, the LTC3896HFE offers simpler analog CTRL-based voltage setting, dedicated VC compensation node, and optimized pinout for discrete N/P-MOSFET layouts-making it preferred for cost-sensitive, medium-power bipolar supply designs where ease of loop compensation and minimal external components are critical.
Availability
LTC3896HFE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive regenerative braking systems, precision audio amplifiers, industrial test equipment, and battery emulation platforms requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.
Supply support for LTC3896HFE 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 digital signal processing semiconductors, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets since 1965.
The LTC3896HFE belongs to ADI's Power by Linear™ 4-quadrant controller product line, engineered specifically for bipolar, bidirectional power conversion in environments demanding immunity to input transients-such as cold-crank automotive conditions-and precise analog-controlled polarity reversal.
FAQ
What is the primary function of the LTC3896HFE in a power system?
The LTC3896HFE is a 4-quadrant DC/DC controller IC that regulates bipolar ±10 V output rails while sourcing or sinking up to 3 A. It does not integrate power MOSFETs but drives external N- and P-channel devices to enable continuous bidirectional power flow-critical in applications like regenerative braking and audio amplifiers. Its core function is precise analog-controlled voltage reversal without hardware switching.
Can the LTC3896HFE operate directly from a 5 V to 24 V input?
No, the LTC3896HFE requires a regulated intermediate bus input (VINTER) of 12 V to 24 V-not a raw 5 V–24 V source. In the reference 2-stage design, an upstream boost controller (e.g., LTC7804) generates this stable VINTER rail from the wide-input source. The LTC3896HFE itself has no built-in input regulation or wide-range input capability.
How does the CTRL pin on the LTC3896HFE determine output voltage polarity and magnitude?
The CTRL pin accepts a 0.1 V to 1.048 V analog voltage that linearly maps to the output: 0.1 V sets –10 V, 1.048 V sets +10 V. This enables smooth, continuous polarity reversal-e.g., a 60 Hz sine wave on CTRL produces a corresponding ±10 V sine wave at VOUT. The LTC3896HFE uses this signal in conjunction with FB/SENSE+/- feedback to maintain regulation during transitions.
Does the LTC3896HFE support digital interface or I²C/SPI communication?
No, the LTC3896HFE has no digital interface. It is an analog-controlled device with dedicated pins for voltage feedback (FB/SENSE+/-), current sensing (ISN/ISP), gate drive (TG/BG), and analog control (CTRL). Configuration is done entirely through external resistors, capacitors, and the CTRL voltage signal-no firmware, registers, or serial protocol support is provided.
What thermal management considerations apply to the LTC3896HFE in high-current operation?
The LTC3896HFE in HFE package requires proper PCB thermal design: the exposed pad must be soldered to a minimum 200 mm² copper pour with ≥4 thermal vias to inner/ground planes. At 3 A output, junction temperature rise is typically ≤25°C above ambient with 200 LFM airflow. Derating begins above 85°C case temperature; thermal shutdown activates at 165°C.
LTC3896HFE Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 38-TFSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width) 31 Leads, Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Output Type:
- Transistor Driver
- Function:
- Step-Up/Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Negative
- Topology:
- Buck-Boost
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Output Phases:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Vcc/Vdd):
- 4V ~ 140V
- Frequency - Switching:
- 50kHz ~ 900kHz
- Duty Cycle (Max):
- 99%
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Clock Sync:
- No
- Serial Interfaces:
- -
- Control Features:
- Current Limit, Enable, Frequency Control, Phase Control, Power Good, Soft Start
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 38-TSSOP-EP
LTC3896HFE FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LTC3896HFE through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LTC3896HFE 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 LTC3896HFE reliable?
The price and inventory of LTC3896HFE are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LTC3896HFE is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LTC3896HFE?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LTC3896HFE transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LTC3896HFE?
LTC3896HFE orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LTC3896HFE 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 LTC3896HFE?
For technical support, including LTC3896HFE datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LTC3896HFE requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LTC3896HFE is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LTC3896HFE 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 LTC3896HFE meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LTC3896HFE?
All LTC3896HFE units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LTC3896HFE, 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 LTC3896HFE part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LTC3896HFE:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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