Analog Devices Inc. LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF
- Part No.:
- LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Category:
- Battery Chargers
- Package:
- 20-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF.pdf
- Description:
- IC BATT CHG MULTI-CHEM 20QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,194
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Product details
Overview
LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a synchronous buck battery charger controller for multi-chemistry Li-ion, Li-polymer, and lead-acid batteries. It delivers ±0.5% float voltage accuracy, 4% charge current accuracy, and programmable 6V–28V input/2V–28V output ranges. Designed for notebook computers and portable instruments, it integrates PowerPath™ ideal diode control, AC adapter current limiting, and analog charge current monitoring via the PROG pin.
For engineers reviewing the LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF datasheet, LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF pinout, LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF application, or LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF equivalent, key selection criteria include its 550kHz quasi-constant-frequency PWM architecture (enabling ceramic capacitor use without audible noise), INFET-controlled P-channel ideal diode, C/10 charge termination signaling, and 20-pin 4mm × 4mm QFN package with exposed thermal pad.
Technical Context
The LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF implements a current-mode synchronous buck topology with external N-channel MOSFETs driven by TGATE and BGATE outputs. Its error amplifier compares VFB (referenced to 1.2085V) and PROG-derived average charge current against ITH-set peak inductor current thresholds, enabling simultaneous regulation of battery voltage, charge current, and input current limit.
PowerPath control uses the INFET output to drive an external P-MOSFET between DCIN and CLP, maintaining ~25mV forward drop during charging and blocking reverse current within <6µs when DCIN falls below CLP by >25mV. Input current limiting is implemented via CLP/CLN differential sensing with 100mV threshold and 3% accuracy, signaled by the open-drain ICL pin.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Topology | Synchronous buck PWM controller - requires external high-side and low-side N-MOSFETs for efficient step-down conversion. |
| Switching Frequency | 550kHz typical - enables compact magnetics and ceramic bulk capacitors without audible noise. |
| Output Voltage Accuracy | ±0.5% over temperature - ensures precise battery float voltage setting for Li-ion safety and longevity. |
| Charge Current Accuracy | ±4% (C-grade) - determined by RPROG, RIN, and RSENSE; enables reliable current programming across operating conditions. |
| Input Voltage Range | 6V to 28V - supports wide-range AC adapters and industrial power supplies. |
| Output Voltage Range | 2V to 28V - configurable for single-cell to multi-cell Li-ion, LiFePO₄, or sealed lead-acid chemistries. |
| Package | 20-pin 4mm × 4mm × 0.75mm QFN with exposed GND pad - provides low thermal resistance (θJA = 37°C/W) for high-power charging. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 20-lead plastic QFN (4mm × 4mm, 0.75mm height), exposed paddle (Pin 21) soldered to PCB ground for thermal and electrical integrity.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CLN (1) | Current limit sense negative | Differential input for AC adapter current limiting; referenced 100mV below CLP; requires RC filtering for noise immunity. |
| CLP (2) | Current limit sense positive / power rail | Primary input power source; supplies internal circuits and sets current limit threshold; operates up to 28V. |
| INFET (3) | PowerPath ideal diode gate driver | Drives external P-MOSFET gate to maintain ~25mV forward drop and block reverse current in <6µs. |
| DCIN (4) | DC input sense | Voltage sense input for AC present detection and PowerPath control; triggers charging when DCIN > BAT + 500mV. |
| GND (5) | Ground reference | Common return for all analog and digital circuitry; internally tied to exposed thermal pad (Pin 21). |
| SHDN (6) | Active-low shutdown control | Forces full shutdown when pulled <300mV; includes 40kΩ internal pull-down; disables ITH, CHRG, ICL, and gate drivers. |
| CHRG (7) | Charge status indicator | Open-drain output with three states: strong pull-down (bulk charge), 25µA weak pull-down (C/10), or high-Z (shutdown/reverse). |
| ICL (8) | Input current limit indicator | Active-low open-drain signal asserted when charge current is reduced due to AC adapter current limiting. |
| VFB (9) | Battery voltage feedback | High-impedance input referenced to 1.2085V; used with external resistor divider to set precise float voltage. |
| FBDIV (10) | Feedback divider source | Open-drain PFET output connected to BAT during charging; completes resistor divider network for VFB. |
| BAT (11) | Battery pack connection | Main battery voltage node; used for PWM control, C/10 detection, and FBDIV switching; range: GND to CLN. |
| ITH (12) | PWM current threshold control | Error amplifier output setting peak inductor current; external RC network provides loop compensation and soft-start timing. |
| PROG (13) | Charge current programming & monitor | Resistor-to-GND sets max charge current; voltage output linearly tracks actual charge current (11.67µA/mV scaling). |
| CSN (14) | Current sense negative | Negative input of current sense amplifier; connects to low side of RSENSE; common-mode range extends 50mV below BAT. |
| CSP (15) | Current sense positive | Positive input of current sense amplifier; connects to high side of RSENSE; common-mode range extends 200mV above BAT. |
| BGATE (16) | Bottom FET gate driver | Drives synchronous rectifier N-MOSFET; rail-to-rail output (GND to INTVDD); disable by leaving floating. |
| INTVDD (17) | Internal 5V regulator output | 5.0V ±1% regulated supply for gate drivers; short-circuit current limited to 130mA; shuts down in SHDN. |
| SW (18) | Switch node | Connection point between external inductor and both N-MOSFETs; critical high-dv/dt node requiring tight layout. |
| TGATE (19) | Top FET gate driver | Drives high-side N-MOSFET; bootstrapped from BOOST; rail-to-rail output (GND to CLN + 5V). |
| BOOST (20) | Bootstrap supply input | Connects to bootstrap capacitor between SW and INTVDD; supplies TGATE driver; range: INTVDD−1V to CLN+5V. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| No-audible-noise PWM operation | Quasi-constant 550kHz frequency enables use of ceramic bulk capacitors without piezoelectric squeal in portable systems. |
| Programmable AC adapter current limit | External RIN sets 3% accurate input current limit; prevents adapter overload while maximizing charge rate under varying load conditions. |
| Analog charge current monitoring | PROG pin provides linear voltage output (11.67µA/mV) proportional to real-time charge current-no ADC required for MCU-based monitoring. |
| PowerPath™ ideal diode control | INFET output drives external P-MOSFET to achieve ~25mV forward drop and sub-6µs reverse-current blocking-improves system efficiency and battery isolation. |
| Flexible battery chemistry support | No built-in termination logic; fully controllable via external MCU using CHRG, ICL, and PROG signals-supports Li-ion, LiFePO₄, NiMH, and lead-acid with custom algorithms. |
Applications
| Notebook Computers | Portable Instruments |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Dual-power system where AC adapter powers both host CPU and charges integrated Li-ion battery pack. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Synchronous buck controller managing charge current, battery voltage, and input current limit while coordinating with system MCU via CHRG/ICL/PROG. Use Value: Enables fast, safe charging at up to 3A while preventing AC adapter overload and eliminating audible noise from electrolytic capacitors. | Use Scenario: Handheld multimeter or data logger with rechargeable Li-ion battery and USB-powered operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Battery charger controller providing precise 4.2V float voltage and C/10 termination indication to MCU for state-of-charge estimation. Use Value: ±0.5% voltage accuracy extends battery cycle life; PROG-based current monitoring eliminates need for separate current-sense IC. |
| Battery Backup Systems | Industrial Portable Terminals |
Use Scenario: UPS module for PLC I/O modules requiring seamless switchover between line power and sealed lead-acid backup battery. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Multi-chemistry charger controller configured for 13.8V Pb-acid float voltage and adaptive input current limiting during brownout conditions. Use Value: Wide 2V–28V output range supports Pb-acid, LiFePO₄, or NiCd; INFET ideal diode ensures zero reverse leakage and fast switchover. | Use Scenario: Ruggedized warehouse scanner with hot-swappable Li-ion battery packs and 24V DC input. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-efficiency charger managing 2A bulk charge and 200mA maintenance charge under variable 18–28V DC input. Use Value: 550kHz switching allows small 6.8µH inductor and 20µF ceramic output caps; 20-pin QFN fits space-constrained industrial PCB layouts. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar battery charger controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LTC4015IUFD#PBF | Integrated dual-input PowerPath with automatic source selection; includes on-chip MOSFET drivers and telemetry ADC; higher pin count (28-pin QFN). | Designed for systems requiring seamless AC/USB/battery priority arbitration without external logic; not pin-compatible. | Select LTC4015IUFD#PBF when automatic input source handoff and integrated telemetry are required; LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF remains optimal for cost-sensitive, MCU-managed designs with discrete FETs. |
| BQ24725ARGER | TI part with integrated N-MOSFET drivers and SMBus interface; fixed 500kHz frequency; no INFET ideal diode output. | Requires SMBus host for configuration; lacks dedicated ideal diode control output-needs external PFET driver or diode. | Choose BQ24725ARGER for SMBus-managed server/industrial chargers; LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF offers superior flexibility for custom PowerPath and analog monitoring in embedded MCU systems. |
Compared with LTC4015IUFD#PBF and BQ24725ARGER, the LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF provides unmatched analog configurability for charge voltage/current, standalone PowerPath control via INFET, and direct PROG-based current monitoring-making it ideal for resource-constrained MCU-based battery management where integration trade-offs favor discrete FET optimization and analog signal access.
Availability
LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, portable instruments, and battery backup systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed C-grade temperature performance (0°C to 85°C).
Supply support for LTC4012CUF-3#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. (including legacy Linear Technology products) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power management semiconductors, serving precision instrumentation, industrial automation, and communications markets.
The LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF belongs to the LTC® high-efficiency battery charger controller family, designed specifically for flexible, MCU-coordinated multi-chemistry charging in space- and efficiency-constrained portable and industrial equipment.
FAQ
What battery chemistries does the LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF support?
The LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF supports Li-ion, Li-polymer, LiFePO₄, NiMH, and sealed lead-acid batteries. It has no built-in charge termination logic and relies on external MCU control via CHRG, ICL, and PROG signals to implement chemistry-specific algorithms. Its wide 2V–28V output voltage range and programmable charge current make it adaptable to diverse cell counts and chemistries without hardware changes.
How does the LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF prevent audible noise in ceramic capacitor-based designs?
The LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF uses a synchronous quasi-constant-frequency PWM architecture operating at 550kHz (typical), which places switching energy well above the human audible range (20Hz–20kHz). This eliminates piezoelectric vibration in ceramic capacitors-unlike variable-frequency controllers that can drift into audible bands during light-load conditions. The LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF maintains this behavior even during C/10 taper and shutdown transitions.
What is the function of the INFET pin on the LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF?
The INFET pin on the LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF drives the gate of an external P-channel MOSFET to implement ideal diode functionality between the DC input (DCIN) and system rail (CLP). It regulates forward voltage to ~25mV during charging and disables the FET in <6µs if reverse current is detected-preventing battery discharge through the adapter path. This improves overall system efficiency and enables true PowerPath™ operation.
Can the LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF operate without an external microcontroller?
No-the LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF is a controller IC, not a standalone charger. It requires an external MCU or state machine to manage charge termination (e.g., C/10 cutoff), safety timers, temperature monitoring, and fault recovery. The CHRG and ICL pins provide status feedback, while the PROG pin enables real-time current monitoring. Without external logic, the LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF will continuously charge until manually disabled via SHDN.
What is the maximum charge current achievable with the LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF?
The LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF itself does not limit maximum charge current-the limit is set by external components: RSENSE (current sense resistor), RIN (input matching resistors), and RPROG (programming resistor). With typical values (RSENSE = 33mΩ, RIN = 3.01kΩ, RPROG = 26.7kΩ), the LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF achieves up to 3A charge current. Higher currents are possible with lower RSENSE and appropriate FET/inductor selection, constrained only by thermal design and external component ratings.
LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- PowerPath™
- Package/Case:
- 20-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Battery Chemistry:
- Multi-Chemistry
- Number of Cells:
- -
- Current - Charging:
- Constant - Programmable
- Programmable Features:
- -
- Fault Protection:
- Over Voltage, Reverse Current
- Charge Current - Max:
- -
- Battery Pack Voltage:
- -
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 28V
- Interface:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 20-QFN (4x4)
LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LTC4012CUF-3#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 LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF reliable?
The price and inventory of LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF?
LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LTC4012CUF-3#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 LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF?
For technical support, including LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LTC4012CUF-3#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 LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF?
All LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LTC4012CUF-3#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 LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LTC4012CUF-3#TRPBF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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