Analog Devices Inc. LTC4012CUF#TRPBF
- Part No.:
- LTC4012CUF#TRPBF
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Category:
- Battery Chargers
- Package:
- 20-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
LTC4012CUF#TRPBF.pdf
- Description:
- IC BAT CHG MULT-CHEM 1-4CL 20QFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
LTC4012CUF#TRPBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a synchronous buck-mode battery charger controller supporting Li-ion, Li-polymer, and other chemistries. It delivers ±0.5% float voltage accuracy, 4% charge current accuracy, and programmable AC adapter input current limiting with 3% accuracy. Designed for notebook computers and portable instruments, it operates across 6V–28V input and 2V–28V output ranges with PowerPath™ ideal diode control.
For engineers reviewing the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF datasheet, LTC4012CUF#TRPBF pinout, LTC4012CUF#TRPBF application, or LTC4012CUF#TRPBF equivalent, key selection criteria include its 20-pin QFN package, 550kHz quasi-constant-frequency PWM architecture, absence of built-in termination, analog charge current monitoring via PROG pin, and INFET-controlled external PMOS for reverse-current blocking and low-loss power path management.
Technical Context
The LTC4012CUF#TRPBF implements current-mode PWM control with cycle-by-cycle peak inductor current regulation via ITH pin feedback. Its synchronous buck topology uses external NMOS switches driven by TGATE and BGATE outputs, while INFET provides gate control for an external PMOS ideal diode between DCIN and CLP.
It features dual-loop operation: constant-current mode regulated by CSP/CSN differential sensing and PROG voltage scaling, and constant-voltage mode governed by VFB (LTC4012 variant) or FVS0/FVS1 digital select inputs (LTC4012-1/-2). Input current limiting is implemented using CLP/CLN differential sensing with active ICL status indication.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Topology | Synchronous buck PWM controller - requires external NMOS high-side (TGATE) and NMOS synchronous rectifier (BGATE), plus external PMOS for PowerPath |
| Input Voltage Range | 6V to 28V on CLP - supports wide-range AC adapters and industrial DC supplies without external LDO pre-regulation |
| Output Voltage Range | 2V to 28V - fully adjustable via resistor divider on VFB (LTC4012) or pin-programmable for 1–4S Li-ion (4.1V/cell or 4.2V/cell) |
| Charge Current Accuracy | ±4% - enables precise setting of bulk charge rate using RPROG, RIN, and RSENSE with minimal calibration |
| Float Voltage Accuracy | ±0.5% - ensures tight cell voltage regulation critical for Li-ion longevity and safety compliance |
| Switching Frequency | Typical 550kHz - allows use of small ceramic output capacitors and avoids audible noise in portable applications |
| PowerPath Control | INFET output drives external PMOS - maintains ~25mV forward drop and blocks reverse current within <6µs at –25mV reversal |
Pinout & Package
20-pin 4mm × 4mm × 0.75mm plastic QFN package with exposed thermal pad (Pin 21 = GND), rated for 0°C to 85°C operating temperature.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| CLN (1) | Current limit sense negative | Differential input for AC adapter current limiting; threshold is 100mV below CLP - requires external RC filter to reject switching noise |
| CLP (2) | Current limit sense positive / supply rail | Primary input power source and reference for CLN; powers internal circuits including shutdown logic |
| INFET (3) | PowerPath PMOS gate driver | Drives gate of external PMOS to regulate forward voltage (~25mV) and block reverse current - clamped ~6V below CLP |
| DCIN (4) | DC input sense | Voltage sense input for PowerPath comparator; used with CLP to detect adapter presence and enable charging |
| ACP (5) | AC present indicator | Open-drain output active-low when DCIN > BAT + 500mV - signals host MCU that adapter is connected and valid |
| SHDN (6) | Shutdown control | Active-low input; pulls below 300mV to force full shutdown with µA-level battery leakage and disabled gate drivers |
| CHRG (7) | Charge status indicator | Three-state open-drain output: strong pull-down (charging), 25µA weak pull-down (C/10 reached), high-Z (shutdown or no charge) |
| ICL (8) | Input current limit indicator | Active-low open-drain flag - asserts when charge current is reduced due to CLP/CLN current limiting |
| VFB (9) | Battery voltage feedback | Analog input for resistor-divider programming of float voltage; regulated to 1.2085V in CV mode - only used on LTC4012 (not -1/-2 variants) |
| FBDIV (10) | Feedback divider source | Open-drain PFET output tied to BAT during charging - completes resistor divider network for VFB-based voltage programming |
| BAT (11) | Battery pack connection | Main battery voltage sensing node - used for PWM regulation, C/10 detection, and system load monitoring |
| ITH (12) | PWM current control node | Compensation and soft-start node - voltage sets peak inductor current; external RC network stabilizes current loop |
| PROG (13) | Charge current programming & monitor | Resistor-to-GND sets max charge current; voltage scales linearly with actual charge current (11.67µA/mV typical) |
| CSN (14) | Current sense negative | Negative input of high-side current sense amplifier - connects to low side of RSENSE via RIN |
| CSP (15) | Current sense positive | Positive input of high-side current sense amplifier - connects to high side of RSENSE via RIN |
| BGATE (16) | Synchronous rectifier driver | Gate drive for external NMOS synchronous FET - improves efficiency vs. diode rectification in buck stage |
| INTVDD (17) | Internal 5V regulator output | 5.0V ±1% regulated supply for gate drivers and internal logic - shuts down in SHDN mode |
| SW (18) | Switch node | Connection point between external inductor and both NMOS switches - critical for layout; referenced by TGATE driver |
| TGATE (19) | High-side NMOS driver | Gate drive for external NMOS high-side switch - rail-to-rail swing up to CLN + 5V |
| BOOST (20) | TGATE bootstrap supply | Bootstrap capacitor return - charges from INTVDD/SW to enable high-side NMOS gate drive above CLN |
| GND (21) | Thermal & signal ground | Exposed paddle must be soldered to PCB ground plane - provides low-impedance reference and thermal path (θJA = 37°C/W) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| No audible noise with ceramic capacitors | Quasi-constant-frequency 550kHz PWM eliminates sub-audible switching artifacts - enables compact, silent designs without electrolytic bulk caps |
| INFET Low Loss Ideal Diode PowerPath™ | PMOS gate control maintains ~25mV forward drop and blocks reverse current in <6µs - eliminates Schottky losses and prevents battery discharge into faulty adapters |
| Analog charge current monitor | PROG pin provides linear voltage proportional to charge current (11.67µA/mV) - enables real-time current readback without ADC or external op-amp |
| Programmable AC adapter current limit | CLP/CLN differential sensing with 3% accuracy - allows dynamic charge rate adjustment to avoid overloading shared input supplies |
| Micropower shutdown | Sub-µA battery leakage in shutdown - extends shelf life and standby time in battery-backed systems |
| Wide output voltage range (2V–28V) | Supports single-cell LiFePO4, multi-cell Li-ion, NiMH, and lead-acid chemistries - eliminates need for multiple charger ICs across product families |
Applications
| Notebook Computers | Portable Instruments |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Dual-input power system where battery charges from AC adapter while simultaneously powering CPU, display, and peripherals. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Synchronous buck controller managing charge current and voltage, with PowerPath ensuring seamless switchover between adapter and battery without system brownout. Use Value: Enables uninterrupted operation during adapter plug/unplug events and maintains ±0.5% battery voltage accuracy for safe Li-ion cycling. | Use Scenario: Handheld multimeter or data logger requiring long battery life, fast recharge from USB-C PD adapter, and reliable operation under variable load. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Battery charger controller with programmable input current limit and analog current monitoring - interfaces directly with MCU for adaptive charge profiling. Use Value: 4% charge current accuracy and C/10 detection allow precise end-of-charge signaling; micropower shutdown reduces quiescent drain to <1µA. |
| Battery Backup Systems | Industrial Portable Equipment |
Use Scenario: Rack-mounted UPS or telecom backup unit with sealed lead-acid or LiFePO4 battery bank, charged from 24V DC plant supply. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-efficiency buck controller delivering up to 3A charge current with wide 2V–28V output range - configured for 28.8V float voltage via VFB divider. Use Value: 550kHz switching enables small magnetics and ceramic output caps; INFET prevents reverse current if main supply fails unexpectedly. | Use Scenario: Ruggedized tablet or field diagnostic tool operating in extreme temperatures (-20°C to 60°C ambient) with hot-swappable battery packs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Charger controller with robust PowerPath and wide input range (6V–28V) - tolerates automotive transients and unregulated DC sources. Use Value: ±0.5% voltage accuracy ensures cell balancing integrity; exposed GND pad provides reliable thermal dissipation in sealed enclosures. |
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#TRPBF | Integrated dual-input PowerPath, 3.5A max charge current, built-in MOSFET drivers for both battery and system paths, higher integration with I2C interface | Designed for systems requiring automatic priority selection between USB, wall adapter, and battery - includes system power path control not present in LTC4012CUF#TRPBF | Select when needing integrated system power switching and digital configuration; not drop-in due to different pinout and feature set |
| BQ24725ARHRT | TI part with integrated ADC, SMBus interface, and factory-programmable parameters; fixed 4.2V/cell output for Li-ion; no VFB-based analog programming | Targeted at OEMs requiring firmware-updatable charge profiles and telemetry - lacks analog PROG monitoring and wide output voltage adjustability | Select for SMBus-managed platforms with standardized Li-ion charging; not suitable for custom chemistries or analog current monitoring |
Compared with LTC4012CUF#TRPBF, LTC4015IUFD#TRPBF adds system-side power path control and digital configurability but increases BOM count and layout complexity, while BQ24725ARHRT trades analog flexibility for embedded firmware control and telemetry - making LTC4012CUF#TRPBF optimal for cost-sensitive, analog-configured, multi-chemistry applications requiring direct MCU supervision.
Availability
LTC4012CUF#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 traceable sourcing.
Supply support for LTC4012CUF#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 digital signal processing technologies, serving industrial, automotive, communications, and healthcare markets.
The LTC4012CUF#TRPBF belongs to ADI's Linear Technology legacy battery management portfolio, designed specifically for flexible, high-efficiency, externally supervised multi-chemistry battery charging in space- and cost-constrained portable systems.
FAQ
What battery chemistries does the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF support?
The LTC4012CUF#TRPBF supports Li-ion, Li-polymer, LiFePO4, NiMH, and lead-acid batteries. It has no built-in charge termination logic and relies on external microcontroller supervision for full algorithm control. Its 2V–28V output range and programmable float voltage make it adaptable across chemistries - unlike fixed-voltage chargers, the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF enables custom voltage/current profiles via analog feedback and PROG monitoring.
Does the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF include integrated power MOSFETs?
No, the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF is a controller-only IC and requires external power MOSFETs: an NMOS high-side switch driven by TGATE, an NMOS synchronous rectifier driven by BGATE, and a PMOS ideal diode controlled by INFET. This architecture allows designers to optimize efficiency, thermal performance, and cost per application - the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF itself contains no power switches, only precision analog control circuitry and gate drivers.
How is battery float voltage programmed on the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF?
On the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF (standard variant, not -1 or -2), float voltage is programmed using a resistor divider between FBDIV and GND, with the center tap connected to VFB. The internal reference is 1.2085V, so VOUT = 1.2085V × (1 + R1/R2). This analog method allows continuous adjustment across the full 2V–28V range. The LTC4012CUF#TRPBF does not use FVS0/FVS1 pins - those are exclusive to the LTC4012-1 and LTC4012-2 variants.
What is the function of the PROG pin on the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF?
The PROG pin on the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF serves two functions: (1) it sets maximum charge current via an external resistor to GND (RPROG), and (2) it provides an analog voltage output linearly proportional to actual charge current (11.67µA/mV nominal). This dual role eliminates the need for separate current-sense amplifiers or ADC channels - the host MCU can read PROG voltage to monitor real-time charge current with no additional components.
Can the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF operate without an external microcontroller?
The LTC4012CUF#TRPBF can perform basic charging (CC/CV) autonomously once configured, but it lacks built-in termination, state machine, or safety timers. Full functionality - including C/10 cutoff, temperature monitoring, preconditioning, and fault recovery - requires external supervision. The CHRG, ICL, and ACP pins provide status signals to a host MCU, and SHDN allows software-controlled shutdown. Thus, while the LTC4012CUF#TRPBF handles analog regulation, a microcontroller is necessary for complete, safe battery management.
LTC4012CUF#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:
- 1 ~ 4
- Current - Charging:
- Constant - Programmable
- Programmable Features:
- -
- Fault Protection:
- Over Voltage
- 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#TRPBF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LTC4012CUF#TRPBF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LTC4012CUF#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#TRPBF reliable?
The price and inventory of LTC4012CUF#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#TRPBF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LTC4012CUF#TRPBF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LTC4012CUF#TRPBF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LTC4012CUF#TRPBF?
LTC4012CUF#TRPBF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LTC4012CUF#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#TRPBF?
For technical support, including LTC4012CUF#TRPBF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LTC4012CUF#TRPBF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LTC4012CUF#TRPBF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LTC4012CUF#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#TRPBF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LTC4012CUF#TRPBF?
All LTC4012CUF#TRPBF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LTC4012CUF#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#TRPBF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LTC4012CUF#TRPBF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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