The LTM4641 from Linear Technology is a switch mode step-down DC/DC µModule regulator with advanced input and load protection features that monitors input voltage, output voltage and temperature conditions. If any user-adjustable trip thresholds are exceeded, the LTM4641 responds quickly within 500ns in the case of an output overvoltage fault, ceasing operation, and if necessary, activating external switches. One switch disconnects the input supply rail while the other discharges the output capacitors to protect the load.

Additionally, when any trip threshold is exceeded, the LTM4641 will issue a logic level fault signal which may be used to initiate an orderly emergency shutdown sequence in the system. The adjustable trip thresholds are accurate to within ±2.7% over the full operating temperature range.

The LTM4641’s high efficiency design can deliver up to 10A continuous current with a few input and output capacitors. The regulator’s constant on-time current mode control architecture enables high step-down ratios and fast response to transient line and load changes.

As a µModule regulator, the LTM4641 includes power MOSFETs, DC/DC controller, inductor, compensation and the protection logic circuits in a compact surface mount BGA package. The LTM4641 is designed for point-of-load regulation in robotics and industrial instrumentation, as well as rugged environments such as defence and avionics systems.

Trip detection thresholds for the following faults are customizable: input undervoltage, overtemperature, input overvoltage and output overvoltage. When any trip threshold is exceeded, the LTM4641’s protection circuitry classifies the fault in one of two categories, latching or non-latching. Normal voltage regulation will automatically resume once a non-latching fault such as input undervoltage, bias input undervoltage or input overvoltage has cleared.

For latching faults such as an output overvoltage or a second input overvoltage threshold, the system must cycle the input power or supply a logic level signal to the LTM4641 in order to resume normal operation. An overtemperature fault can be classified by the user as a latching or non-latching fault by setting a logic level pin. The LTM4641 can be configured to autonomously restart after latchoff fault conditions have cleared.

The output voltage is user adjustable from 0.6V to 6V with ±1.5% total accuracy over line, load and temperature. Additional features include output current sharing for loads requiring more than 10A, externally adjustable soft start, output overcurrent protection, switching frequency and output voltage tracking.

The LTM4641 is packaged a thermally efficient 15mm x 15mm x 5.01mm RoHS compliant BGA with guaranteed operation over the -40°C to +125°C (E grade and I grade) or -55°C to +125°C (MP grade) internal temperature range. Pricing starts at $25.95 each for 1,000-piece quantities.

For more information, visit www.linear.com/product/LTM4641.

See LTM4641 video at: http://video.linear.com/142

Summary of Features: LTM4641

  • ±2.7% Accurate Customizable Overtemperature, Overvoltage & Undervoltage Fault Thresholds with Active Load Protection
  • 4.5V to 38V Input Voltage Range
  • 0.6V to 6V Output Voltage Range with ±1.5% Accuracy over Line, Load & Temperature
  • Output Current up to 10A
  • Supports Paralleling of Outputs
  • Compact, Thermally Enhanced 15mm x 15mm x 5.01mm BGA Package

About Linear Technology

Linear Technology Corporation, a manufacturer of high performance linear integrated circuits, was founded in 1981, became a public company in 1986 and joined the S&P 500 index of major public companies in 2000.  Linear Technology products include high performance amplifiers, comparators, voltage references, monolithic filters, linear regulators, DC-DC converters, battery chargers, data converters, communications interface circuits, RF signal conditioning circuits, µModule products, and many other analog functions.  Applications for Linear Technology’s high performance circuits include telecommunications, cellular telephones, networking products such as optical switches, notebook and desktop computers, computer peripherals, video/multimedia, industrial instrumentation, security monitoring devices, high-end consumer products such as digital cameras and MP3 players, complex medical devices, automotive electronics, factory automation, process control, and military and space systems.

Linear Technology (UK) Limited
Tel: +44 (0)1628 477066

E-mail: uksales@linear.com

Web site: www.linear.com

 

 

Website for product information:  http://www.linear.com/product/LTM4641