LT3988

Dual 60V Monolithic 1A

Step-Down Switching
Regulator
Features Description
n Wide Input Range: The LT®3988 is a dual, current mode, step-down, DC/DC
Operation from 4.1V to 60V converter that accepts two input voltages up to 60V (80V
Overvoltage Lockout Protects Circuit Through transient), which may be driven from separate supplies or
80V Transients can be cascaded. High efficiency switches are included on
n Two 1A Output Switching Regulators with Internal the die along with internal boost diodes and loop compensa-
Power Switches tion. Both converters are capable of generating 1A outputs,
n Short Circuit Robust are synchronized to a single oscillator programmable up
n Adjustable 250kHz to 2.5MHz Switching Frequency, to 2.5MHz, and run with opposite phases, reducing input
Synchronizable Over the Full Range ripple current.
n Integrated Boost Diodes
The switching frequency is set with a single resistor yield-
n Integrated Loop Compensation
ing a range of 250kHz to 2.5MHz, or a clock signal can
n Anti-Phase Switching Reduces Ripple
be applied to the SYNC pin. The LT3988’s high switching
n Low Shutdown IQ (<2µA)
frequency allows the use of small inductors and capacitors,
n Uses Small Inductors and Ceramic Capacitors
resulting in a very small dual output supply. The constant
n Thermally Enhanced, 16-Lead MSOP Package
switching frequency, combined with low impedance ce-
ramic capacitors, results in low, predictable output ripple.
Applications A current mode PWM architecture provides fast transient
n Commercial Vehicle Battery Regulation response with cycle-by-cycle current limiting. Diode current
n Industrial Supplies sense and thermal shutdown provide additional protection.
n Distributed Supply Regulation The LT3988 is available in a 16-lead MSOP package with
L, LT, LTC, LTM, Linear Technology, the Linear logo and Burst Mode are registered trademarks an exposed pad for low thermal resistance.
of Linear Technology Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective
owners.

Typical Application
VIN Efficiency
7V TO 60V
TRANSIENT 4.7µF 90
VIN1 VIN2 VOUT = 5V
TO 80V
EN/UVLO TRACK/SS2 85
TRACK/SS1 1000pF
1000pF RT 80 VOUT = 3.3V
LT3988
SYNC 200k
EFFICIENCY (%)

75
BD
BOOST1 BOOST2 70
22µH 0.22µF 0.22µF 15µH
VOUT1 VOUT2
SW1 SW2 65
5V, 1A 3.3V, 1A
60
57.6k DA1 DA2 34k
FB1 FB2 55 VIN = 12V
GND fSW = 500kHz
10.2k 10k 50
47µF 47µF 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1
22pF IOUT (A)
3988 TA01 3988 TA01b

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LT3988
Absolute Maximum Ratings Pin Configuration
(Note 1)
TOP VIEW
VIN (Notes 7, 8)........................................... –0.3V to 80V DA1 1 16 VIN1
BOOST.......................................................................80V SW1
BOOST1
2
3
15
14
TRACK/SS1
FB1
EN/UVLO (Note 7)......................................................80V BD
EN/UVLO
4
5
17 13
12
RT
SYNC
GND
BOOST above SW......................................................30V BOOST2 6 11 FB2
SW2 7 10 TRACK/SS2
EN/UVLO above VIN1....................................................6V DA2 8 9 VIN2
RT, SYNC.....................................................................6V MSE PACKAGE
16-LEAD PLASTIC MSOP
TRACK/SS, FB.............................................................5V θJA = 40°C/W, θJC = 10°C/W
BD..............................................................................20V EXPOSED PAD (PIN 17) IS GND, MUST BE SOLDERED TO PCB

Operating Junction Temperature Range (Note 2)

LT3988E............................................. –40°C to 125°C
LT3988I.............................................. –40°C to 125°C
LT3988H............................................. –40°C to 150°C
Storage Temperature Range................... –65°C to 150°C
Lead Temperature (Soldering, 10 sec).................... 300°C

Order Information
LEAD FREE FINISH TAPE AND REEL PART MARKING PACKAGE DESCRIPTION TEMPERATURE RANGE*
LT3988EMSE#PBF LT3988EMSE#TRPBF 3988 16-Lead Plastic MSOP –40°C to 125°C
LT3988IMSE#PBF LT3988IMSE#TRPBF 3988 16-Lead Plastic MSOP –40°C to 125°C
LT3988HMSE#PBF LT3988HMSE#TRPBF 3988 16-Lead Plastic MSOP –40°C to 150°C
Consult LTC Marketing for parts specified with wider operating temperature ranges. *The temperature grade is identified by a label on the shipping container.
Consult LTC Marketing for information on non-standard lead based finish parts.
For more information on lead free part marking, go to: [Link]
For more information on tape and reel specifications, go to: [Link]

Electrical Characteristics The l denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C. VIN1/2 = 12V, unless otherwise noted. (Notes 2, 5, 6)
PARAMETER CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
VIN1 Undervoltage Lockout (Note 3) VIN1 Rising l 3.9 4.1 V
VIN1 Undervoltage Lockout Hysteresis 260 mV
VIN1 Overvoltage Lockout (Note 3) VIN1 Rising l 60 64 66 V
VIN1 Overvoltage Lockout Hysteresis 2.1 V
VIN2 Undervoltage Lockout (Note 3) VIN2 Rising, VIN1 = 4.1V l 2 2.6 3.1 V
VIN2 Undervoltage Lockout Hysteresis 135 mV
EN/UVLO Input Current VEN/UVLO = 1.2V –0.5 0.5 µA
EN/UVLO Enable Threshold 300 500 mV
EN/UVLO Undervoltage Threshold VEN/UVLO = Rising l 1.1 1.2 1.3 V
EN/UVLO Undervoltage Threshold Hysteresis 120 mV

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 LT3988
Electrical Characteristics The l denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C. VIN1/VIN2 = 12V, unless otherwise noted. (Notes 2, 5, 6)
PARAMETER CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
VIN1 Quiescent Current VFB1 = 0.9V, VBD = 0V 2.7 4.5 mA
VIN1 Quiescent Current VFB1 = 0.9V, VBD = 5V 1.6 3 mA
VIN2 Quiescent Current VFB2 = 0.9V, VBD = 5V 250 1000 µA
BD Pin Current VBD = 0V –8 –30 µA
BD Pin Quiescent Current VBD = 5V 1.1 2.2 mA
Shutdown Current (IVIN1+IVIN2) VEN/UVLO ≤ 0.3V 0.1 1 µA
FB Voltage 0.74 0.75 0.76 V
l 0.735 0.75 0.765 V
FB Pin Bias Current VFB = 0.75V l –5 –100 nA
FB Line Voltage Regulation 5V < VIN < 60V 0.01 %/V
Switching Frequency RT = 40.2k l 0.9 1 1.1 MHz
Switching Frequency RT = 200k 250 kHz
Switching Frequency RT = 14.7k 2.15 MHz
Switching Phase, SW1 to SW2 RT = 40.2k 150 180 210 Deg
DA Comparator Current Threshold l 1.1 1.32 1.58 A
Switch VSAT ISW = 1A 850 mV
Switch Current Limit (Note 4) Duty Cycle = 35% 1.4 1.87 2.25 A
Switch Leakage Current 0.01 1 µA
Minimum Boost Voltage 2 2.5 V
Boost Pin Current ISW = 1A 20 50 mA
Boost Diode Forward Voltage IBD = 50mA 0.7 0.9 V
Boost Diode Leakage Current VR = 5V 0.1 5 µA
TRACK/SS Pin Current VTRACK/SS = 1V –0.8 –1.3 –2.2 µA
SYNC Input High Voltage VIH l 1.5 V
SYNC Input Low Voltage VIL l 0.4 V
SYNC Input Frequency 0.25 2.5 MHz
SYNC Pin Input Current VSYNC = 1.5V 0.3 µA

Note 1: Stresses beyond those listed under Absolute Maximum Ratings Note 4: Current limit is guaranteed by design and/or correlation to static
may cause permanent damage to the device. Exposure to any Absolute test. Slope compensation reduces current at higher duty cycles.
Maximum Rating condition for extended periods may affect device Note 5: Polarity specification for all currents into pins is positive. All
reliability and lifetime. voltages are referenced to GND unless otherwise specified.
Note 2: The LT3988E is guaranteed to meet performance specifications Note 6: This IC includes overtemperature protection that is intended
from 0°C to 125°C junction temperature. Specifications over the –40°C to protect the device during momentary overload conditions. Junction
to 125°C operating junction temperature range are assured by design, temperature will exceed the maximum operating junction temperature
characterization and correlation with statistical process controls. The when overtemperature protection is active. Continuous operation above
LT3988I is guaranteed over the full –40°C to 125°C operating junction the specified maximum operating junction temperature may impair device
temperature range. The LT3988H is guaranteed over the full –40°C to reliability.
150°C operating junction temperature range. High junction temperatures Note 7: Absolute Maximum Voltage at VIN and EN/UVLO is 80V for
degrade operating lifetimes. Operating lifetime is derated at junction nonrepetitive 1 second transients, and 60V for continuous operation.
temperatures greater than 125°C.
Note 8: If VIN2 is driven above 60V, VIN2 must be connected to VIN1.
Note 3: Undervoltage lockout occurs when VIN is lower than the
undervoltage threshold. Overvoltage lockout occurs when VIN exceeds the
threshold voltage. See Applications Information.

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 LT3988
Typical Performance Characteristics TA = 25°C, unless otherwise noted.

Efficiency, VOUT = 2.5V Efficiency, VOUT = 3.3V Efficiency, VOUT = 5V

80 90 90
VIN = 12V VIN = 12V
75 85 85
VIN = 24V VIN = 12V VIN = 24V
70 80 80 VIN = 48V
VIN = 48V VIN = 24V
EFFICIENCY (%)

EFFICIENCY (%)

EFFICIENCY (%)
65 75 75
VIN = 48V
60 70 70

55 65 65

50 60 60

45 f = 500kHz 55 55
VBD = 3V f = 500kHz f = 500kHz
40 50 50
0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0
LOAD CURRENT (A) LOAD CURRENT (A) LOAD CURRENT (A)
3988 G01 3988 G02 3988 G03

Switch Current Limit Switch Current Limit

Feedback Voltage vs Temperature vs Temperature vs Duty Cycle
0.760 2.5 2.5
DUTY CYCLE = 35%

0.755 2.0 2.0

FEEDBACK VOLTAGE (V)

CURRENT LIMIT (A)

CURRENT LIMIT (A)

TYPICAL

0.750 1.5 1.5

MINIMUM

0.745 1.0 1.0

0.740 0.5 0.5

–50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 0 20 40 60 80 100
TEMPERATURE (°C) TEMPERATURE (°C) DUTY CYCLE (%)
3988 G04 3988 G05 3988 G06

Switching Frequency
Switching Frequency vs RT vs Temperature Switching Frequency Foldback
2.5 10 1.2
2.3
2.1 1.0
5
FREQUENCY CHANGE (%)

1.9
FREQUENCY (MHz)

1.7
1.5 0.8
f/fNOM

1.3 0
1.1 0.6
0.9
0.7 –5
0.4
0.5
0.3
0.1 –10 0.2
0 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7
RT (kΩ) TEMPERATURE (°C) FEEDBACK VOLTAGE (V)
3988 G07 3988 G08 3988 G09

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 LT3988
Typical Performance Characteristics TA = 25°C, unless otherwise noted.

No-Load Supply Current vs Switch Voltage Drop vs Load

Input Voltage Current Boost Current vs Load Current
3.5 1.0 20
3.4
3.3 0.8
15

BOOST CURRENT (mA)

3.2

VOLTAGE DROP (V)

3.1 0.6
IQ (mA)

3.0 10
2.9 0.4
2.8
5
2.7 0.2
2.6
2.5 0 0
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0
VIN (V) LOAD CURRENT (A) LOAD CURRENT (A)
3988 G10 3988 G11 3988 G12

Boost Diode Voltage vs Boost Maximum VIN for Full Frequency Minimum Switch On-Time vs
Diode Current vs Load Current Temperature
1.00 40 250

200
BOOST DIODE VOLTAGE (V)

0.75 30

MINIMUM ON-TIME (ns) 150

VIN (V)

0.50 20
100

0.25 10
50

f = 1MHz
0 0 0
0 20 40 60 80 100 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150
BOOST DIODE CURRENT (mA) LOAD CURRENT (A) TEMPERATURE (°C)
3988 G13 3988 G14 3988 G15

Minimum Switch Off-Time vs Undervoltage Lockout

Temperature vs Temperature
350
VIN1 RISING
4
300
VIN1 FALLING
MINIMUM OFF-TIME (ns)

250
3
VIN UVLO (V)

VIN2 RISING
200

150 2 VIN2 FALLING

100
1
50

0 0
–50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150
TEMPERATURE (°C) TEMPERATURE (°C)
3988 G16 3988 G17

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LT3988
Typical Performance Characteristics
VIN1 Overvoltage Lockout TRACK/SS Pin Current
vs Temperature vs Temperature
65 1.42

1.38

TRACK/SS PIN CURRENT (µA)

64
VIN1 RISING
VIN1 OVLO (V)

1.34
63
1.30

62
1.26
VIN1 FALLING

61 1.22
–50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150
TEMPERATURE (°C) TEMPERATURE (°C)
3988 G18 3988 G19

Pin Functions
BD: Internal boost diodes are connected between the BD and negative pulse widths of at least 100ns. If the SYNC
pin and the BOOST pins. Connect BD to a 3V or higher function is not used, connect the SYNC pin to ground. If
supply, such as VOUT. using SYNC, minimize coupling to RT and FB2, and add
decoupling capacitors as needed up to 22pF.
BOOST1, BOOST2: The BOOST pins are used to provide
drive voltages, higher than the input voltage, to the internal SW1, SW2: The SW pins are the outputs of the internal
NPN power switches. power switches. Connect these pins to the inductors, catch
diodes and boost capacitors.
DA1, DA2: Tie the DA pin to the anode of the external
Schottky catch diode. If the DA pin current exceeds 1.32A, TRACK/SS1, TRACK/SS2: The TRACK/SS pins are used
which could occur in an overload or short-circuit condi- to soft-start the two channels, to allow one channel to
tion, switching is disabled until the DA pin current falls track the other output, or to allow both channels to track
below 1.32A. another output. For tracking, tie a resistor divider to this
pin from the tracked output. For soft-start, tie a capacitor
EN/UVLO: This pin is used to shut down the LT3988. It can
to this pin. An internal –1.2μA soft-start current charges
be driven from a logic level, tied directly to the input, or
the capacitor to create a voltage ramp at the pin. Leave
used as an undervoltage lockout by connecting a resistor
these pins disconnected if unused.
divider from VIN1.
VIN1: The VIN1 pin supplies current to the LT3988 internal
FB1, FB2: The LT3988 regulates each feedback pin to 0.750V.
Connect the feedback resistor divider taps to these pins. circuitry and to the internal power switch connected to
SW1 and must be locally bypassed. VIN1 must be greater
GND: The exposed pad metal of the package provides both than 3.9V (typ) for channel 1 or channel 2 to operate.
electrical contact to ground and good thermal contact to the
printed circuit board. The exposed pad must be soldered VIN2: The VIN2 pin supplies current to the internal power
to the circuit board for proper operation. switch connected to SW2 and must be locally bypassed.
Connect this pin directly to VIN1 unless power for channel
RT: The RT pin is used to set the internal oscillator fre- 2 is coming from a different source. VIN2 must be greater
quency. Tie a resistor from RT to GND for the desired than 2.6V (typ) and VIN1 must be greater than 3.9V (typ)
switching frequency. for channel 2 to operate. If VIN2 is driven above 60V, VIN2
SYNC: To synchronize the part to an external frequency, must be connected to VIN1.
drive the SYNC pin with a logic-level signal with positive
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 LT3988
Block Diagram
RT SYNC EN/UVLO
THERMAL
SHUTDOWN
MASTER INT REG
OSC AND REF VIN
CIN

AV

BD

CL
BOOST

SLOPE SW C3
CTL
L1
OUT
SW
CLK COUT
SLAVE D1
OSC
DA
R1

0.675V
1.2µA
VC FB
gm TRACK/SS R2
TRACK/SS
C2
0.75V
ILIMIT
CLAMP

GND
3988 BD

ONE OF TWO SWITCHING REGULATORS SHOWN

Figure 1. Block Diagram of the LT3988 with Associated External Components

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LT3988
Operation
The LT3988 is a dual, constant frequency, current mode Each switcher contains an extra, independent oscillator to
regulator with internal power switches. Operation can perform frequency foldback during overload conditions.
be best understood by referring to the Block Diagram in This slave oscillator is normally synchronized to the master
Figure 1. oscillator. A comparator senses when VFB is less than 50%
of its regulated value and switches the regulator from the
If the EN/UVLO pin is pulled low, the LT3988 is shut down
master oscillator to a slower slave oscillator. VFB is less than
and draws minimal current from the input source(s) tied
50% of its regulated value during start-up, short-circuit,
to the VIN pins. If the EN/UVLO pin exceeds 0.5V (typ),
and overload conditions. Frequency foldback helps limit
the internal bias circuits turn on, including the internal
switch current under these conditions.
regulator, reference and master oscillator. The switching
regulators will only begin to operate when the EN/UVLO The TRACK/SS pins override the 0.75V reference of the
pin exceeds 1.2V (typ). FB pins when the TRACK/SS pins are below 0.75V. This
allows either coincident or ratiometric supply tracking on
The switcher is a current mode regulator. Instead of directly
start-up as well as a soft-start capability.
modulating the duty cycle of the power switch, the feedback
loop controls the peak current in the switch during each The switch drivers operate either from VIN or from the
cycle. Compared to voltage mode control, current mode BOOST pin. An external capacitor and internal Schottky
control improves loop dynamics and provides cycle-by- diode are used to generate a voltage at the BOOST pin that
cycle current limit. is higher than the input supply. This allows the driver to
obtain a low VCE across the internal bipolar NPN power
An oscillator enables an RS flip flop, turning on the internal
switch for efficient operation.
power switch. An amplifier and comparator monitor the
current flowing between the VIN and SW pins, turning the The BD pin serves two purposes. The voltage at BD deter-
switch off when this current reaches a level determined by mines the BOOST1 and BOOST2 levels over the VIN1 and
the voltage at VC. An error amplifier measures the output VIN2 supply voltages, and allows the internal circuitry to
voltage through an external resistor divider tied to the draw its current from a lower voltage supply than VIN1.
FB pin and servos the VC voltage. If the error amplifier’s This reduces power dissipation and increases efficiency.
output increases, more current is delivered to the output; If the voltage at BD falls below 3V, then quiescent current
if it decreases, less current is delivered. An active clamp will flow from VIN1.
on the VC voltage provides a current limit. The overvoltage and undervoltage detection shuts down
The switching frequency is set either by the resistance to the LT3988 if the input voltage on VIN1 goes above or
GND at the RT pin or by the frequency of the logic-level below thresholds. The overvoltage detector shuts down
signal driving the SYNC pin. A detection circuit monitors the regulators when VIN1 exceeds 60V. An undervoltage
for the presence of a SYNC signal on the pin and switches detector monitoring VIN1 disables both regulators when
between the two modes upon detection of a clock applied VIN1 is under 3.7V, an undervoltage detector monitoring
to the SYNC pin. Use of the SYNC pin as a frequency input VIN2 shuts down channel 2 when VIN2 is under 2.5V. The
requires the use of an RT resistor as well. This requirement higher voltage is required on VIN1 to accomodate internal
is detailed in the Switching Frequency section. Onboard bias circuits. Additionally, tying the EN/UVLO pin to a volt-
circuitry generates the appropriate slope compensation age divider from VIN1 to ground allows a programmable
ramps and generates the 180° out-of-phase clocks for undervoltage threshold.
the two channels.

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 LT3988
Applications Information
Step-Down Considerations approximated by the following equation:
B
FB Resistor Network DCMAX =
B+1
The output voltage is programmed with a resistor divider
(refer to the Block Diagram) between the output and the where B is the switch pin current divided by the typical
FB pin. Choose the resistors according to: boost current from the BOOST pin current vs switch cur-
rent in the Typical Performance Characteristics section.
 V 
R1= R2  OUT – 1 The maximum operating voltage without pulse-skipping
 750mV 
is determined by the minimum duty cycle DCMIN:
The parallel combination of R1 and R2 should be 20k or VOUT + VF
less to minimize bias current errors. The maximum error VIN(PS) = – VF + VSW
DCMIN
due to VFB bias current is ∆VOUT = IFB(MAX) • R1
with DCMIN = tON(MIN) • f.
Input Voltage Range
The LT3988 will regulate the output current at input volt-
The minimum operating voltage is determined either by ages greater than VIN(PS). Exceeding VIN(PS) is safe if the
the LT3988’s undervoltage lockout or by its maximum output is in regulation, if the external components have
duty cycle. The duty cycle is the fraction of time that the adequate ratings to handle the peak conditions and if the
internal switch is on and is determined by the input and peak inductor current does not exceed 2.3A. A saturating
output voltages: inductor may further reduce performance. For robust
VOUT + VF operation under fault conditions at input voltages of 40V
DC =
VIN – VSW + VF or greater, use an inductor value of 47µH or larger and a
clock rate of 1MHz or lower.
where VF is the forward voltage drop of the catch diode Both the maximum and minimum input voltages are a
(~0.4V) and VSW is the voltage drop of the internal switch function of the switching frequency and output voltages.
(~0.3V at maximum load). This leads to a minimum input Therefore the maximum switching frequency must be set
voltage of: to a value that accommodates all the input and output
VOUT + VF voltage parameters and must meet both of the following
VIN(MIN) = – VF + VSW criteria for each channel:
DCMAX
VOUT + VF 1
The duty cycle is the fraction of time that the internal fMAX1 = •
VIN(PS) – VSW + VF tON(MIN)
switch is on during a clock cycle. The maximum duty cycle
is generally given by DCMAX = 1 – tOFF(MIN) • f. However,
unlike most fixed frequency regulators, the LT3988 will not  VOUT + VF  1
fMAX2 =  1– •
switch off at the end of each clock cycle if there is sufficient  VIN(MIN) – VSW + VF  tOFF(MIN)
voltage across the boost capacitor (C3 in Figure 1) to fully
saturate the output switch. Forced switch-off for a minimum The values of tON(MIN) and tOFF(MIN) are functions of ISW and
time will only occur at the end of a clock cycle when the temperature (see chart in the Typical Performance Character-
boost capacitor needs to be recharged. This operation istics section). Worst-case values for switch currents greater
has the same effect as lowering the clock frequency for a than 0.5A are tON(MIN) = 180ns (for TJ > 125°C tON(MIN) =
fixed off time, resulting in a higher duty cycle and lower 200ns) and tOFF(MIN) = 240ns. fMAX1 is the frequency at
minimum input voltage. The resultant duty cycle depends which the minimum duty cycle is exceeded. The regulator
on the charging times of the boost capacitor and can be will skip ON pulses in order to reduce the overall duty cycle
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LT3988
Applications Information
at frequencies above fMAX1. It will continue to regulate but 1.31 46.56
with increased inductor current and increased output ripple. RT = + – 7.322
f2 f
fMAX2 is the frequency at which the maximum duty cycle
is exceeded. If there is sufficient charge on the BOOST 250kHz ≤ f ≤ 2.5MHz
capacitor, the regulator will skip OFF periods to increase where f is in MHz and RT is in kΩ.
the overall duty cycle at frequencies above fMAX2. Note
The frequency sync signal will support VIH logic levels from
that the restriction on the operating input voltage refers
1.5V to 5V CMOS or TTL. The duty cycle is not important,
to steady-state limits to keep the output in regulation;
but it needs a minimum on time of 100ns and a minimum
the circuit will tolerate input voltage transients up to the
off time of 100ns. RT should be set to provide a frequency
absolute maximum rating.
within ±25% of the final sync frequency.
Switching Frequency The slope recovery circuit sets the slope compensation
Once the upper and lower bounds for the switching to the appropriate value for the synchronized frequency.
frequency are found from the duty cycle requirements, Choose the inductor value based on the lowest potential
the frequency may be set within those bounds. Lower switching frequency.
frequencies result in lower switching losses, but require
Inductor Selection and Maximum Output Current
larger inductors and capacitors. The user must decide
the best trade-off. A good first choice for the inductor value is:
The switching frequency is set by a resistor connected from VOUT + VF
L=
the RT pin to ground, or by forcing a clock signal into the 0.6A • f
SYNC pin. The LT3988 applies a voltage across this resistor
and uses the current to set the oscillator speed. The RT where VF is the voltage drop of the catch diode (~0.4V) and f
resistor value for a given switching frequency is given by: is in MHz. The inductor’s RMS current rating must be greater
than the maximum load current and its saturation current
Table 1. Inductors
MFG URL PART SERIES INDUCTANCE RANGE (µH) SIZE (mm) (L × W × H)
Coilcraft [Link] XPL7030 0.13 to 22 7×7×3
XFL4020 1 to 4.7 4 × 4 × 2.15
XAL50XX 0.16 to 22 5.28 × 5.48 × 5.1
Cooper [Link] DRA74 0.33 to 1000 7.6 × 7.6 × 4.35
DR1040 1.5 to 330 10.5 × 10.3 × 4
CWS [Link] SP-0703 3 to 100 7×7×3
SP-0704 2.2 to 100 7×7×4
SB-1004 10 to 1500 10.1 × 10.1 × 4.5
Murata [Link] LQH55D 0.12 to 10000 5 × 5.7 × 4.7
LQH6PP 1 to 100 6 × 6 × 4.3
LQH88P 1 to 100 8 × 8 × 3.8
Sumida [Link] CDMC6D28 0.2 to 4.7 7.25 × 6.7 × 3
CDEIR8D38F 4 to 22 8.5 × 8.3 × 4
Toko [Link] DS84LCB 1 to 100 8.4 × 8.3 × 4
FDV0620 0.2 to 4.7 6.7 × 7.4 × 2
Vishay [Link] IHLP-2020AB-11 0.1 to 4.7 5.49 × 5.18 × 1.2
IHLP-2020BZ-11 0.1 to 10 5.49 × 5.18 × 2
IHLP-2525CZ-11 1 to 22 6.86 × 6.47 × 3
Würth [Link] WE-PD2-S 1 to 68 4 × 4.5 × 3.2
WE-PD-M 1 to 1000 7.3 × 7.3 × 4.5
WE-PD2-XL 10 to 820 9 × 10 × 5.4
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 LT3988
Applications Information
should be at least 30% higher. For highest efficiency, the VOUT + VF
series resistance (DCR) should be less than 0.1Ω. Table 1 LMIN =
1.25A • f
lists several vendors and types that are suitable.
The current in the inductor is a triangle wave with an with LMIN in μH and f in MHz.
average value equal to the load current. The peak switch For robust operation under fault conditions at input volt-
current is equal to the output current plus half the peak-to- ages of 40V or greater, use an inductor value of 47µH or
peak inductor ripple current. The LT3988 limits its switch larger and a clock rate of 1MHz or lower.
current in order to protect itself and the system from
overload faults. Therefore, the maximum output current Output Capacitor Selection
that the LT3988 will deliver depends on the switch current The output capacitor filters the inductor current to generate
limit, the inductor value and the input and output voltages. an output with low voltage ripple. It also stores energy in
When the switch is off, the potential across the inductor order to satisfy transient loads and stabilize the LT3988’s
is the output voltage plus the catch diode drop. This gives control loop. Because the LT3988 operates at a high
the peak-to-peak ripple current in the inductor: frequency, minimal output capacitance is necessary. In
addition, the control loop operates well with or without
VOUT + VF
∆IL = (1– DC) • the presence of output capacitor series resistance (ESR).
L•f Ceramic capacitors, which achieve very low output ripple
where f is the switching frequency of the LT3988 and L is and small circuit size, are therefore an option. You can
the value of the inductor. In continuous mode, the peak estimate output ripple with the following equations:
inductor and switch current is: ∆IL
VRIPPLE =
∆IL 8 • f • COUT for ceramic capacitors
ISWPK =ILPK = +I
2 L
and
To maintain output regulation, this peak current must
VRIPPLE = ∆IL • ESR for electrolytic capacitors
be less than the LT3988’s switch current limit, ILIM. For
both switches, ILIM is at least 1.5A at low duty cycle and (tantalum and aluminum)
decreases linearly to 1.1A at DC = 90%. (See chart in the where ΔIL is the peak-to-peak ripple current in the inductor.
Typical Performance Characteristics section). The RMS content of this ripple is very low so the RMS
The minimum inductance can now be calculated as: current rating of the output capacitor is usually not of
concern. It can be estimated with the formula:
1– DCMIN VOUT + VF
LMIN = • ∆IL
2•f ILIM – IOUT IC(RMS) =
12
However, it’s generally better to use an inductor larger
than the minimum value. The minimum inductor has large Another constraint on the output capacitor is that it must
ripple currents which increase core losses and require have greater energy storage than the inductor; if the stored
large output capacitors to keep output voltage ripple low. energy in the inductor transfers to the output, the resulting
voltage step should be small compared to the regulation
This analysis is valid for continuous mode operation (IOUT > voltage. For a 5% overshoot, this requirement indicates:
∆IL/2). For details of maximum output current in discontinu-
2
ous mode operation, see Linear Technology’s Application  I 
Note AN44. Finally, for duty cycles greater than 50% (VOUT/ COUT > 10 • L •  LIM 
 VOUT 
VIN > 0.5), a minimum inductance is required to avoid
subharmonic oscillations. This minimum inductance is:
3988f

11
LT3988
Applications Information
The low ESR and small size of ceramic capacitors make diodes with a 70V rating for input voltages up to 80V. Table 3
them the preferred type for LT3988 applications. Not all lists several Schottky diodes and their manufacturers.
ceramic capacitors are the same, however. Many of the
Table 3. Schottky Diodes
higher value capacitors use poor dielectrics with high
VR IAVG VF AT 1A VF AT 2A
temperature and voltage coefficients. In particular, Y5V PART NUMBER (V) (A) (mV) (mV)
and Z5U types lose a large fraction of their capacitance On Semiconductor
with applied voltage and at temperature extremes. Because NSR10F40NXT5G 40 1 490
loop stability and transient response depend on the value MBRA160T3 60 1 510
of COUT, this loss may be unacceptable. Use X7R and X5R MBRS190T3 90 1 750
types. MBRS260T3G 60 2 430
Electrolytic capacitors are also an option. The ESRs of Diodes Inc
most aluminum electrolytic capacitors are too large to B140 40 1 500
deliver low output ripple. Tantalum, as well as newer, B160 60 1 700
lower-ESR organic electrolytic capacitors intended for B170 70 1 790
power supply use are suitable. Choose a capacitor with a B180 80 1 790
low enough ESR for the required output ripple. Because B260 60 2 700
the volume of the capacitor determines its ESR, both the B280 80 2 790
size and the value will be larger than a ceramic capacitor DFLS140L 40 1 550
that would give similar ripple performance. One benefit DFLS160L 60 1 500
is that the larger capacitance may give better transient DFLS260 60 2 620
response for large changes in load current. Table 2 lists
several capacitor vendors.
Boost Pin Considerations
Table 2. Low ESR Surface Mount Capacitors
The external capacitor and the internal diode tied to the
MFG TYPE SERIES
BOOST pin generate a voltage that is higher than the input
AVX Ceramic
Tantalum TPS voltage. In most cases, a small ceramic capacitor will work
Johansen Ceramic X7R, 1812 MLCC well. The capacitor value is a function of the switching
Kemet Tantalum T491,T494,T498 frequency, peak current, duty cycle and boost voltage.
Tantalum Organic T520,T521,T528 Figure 2 shows three ways to arrange the boost circuit. The
Aluminum Organic A700 BOOST pin must be more than 2.3V above the SW pin for
Panasonic Aluminum Organic SP CAP full efficiency. For outputs of 3.3V and higher, the standard
Sanyo Tantalum POSCAP circuit (Figure 2a) is best. For lower output voltages, the BD
Aluminum Organic
pin can be tied to the input (Figure 2b). The circuit in Figure
Taiyo-Yuden Ceramic
2a is more efficient because the BOOST pin current comes
TDK Ceramic
from a lower voltage source. Finally, as shown in Figure
2c, the BD pin can be tied to another source that is at least
Diode Selection 3V. For example, if you are generating 3.3V and 1.8V and
The catch diode (D1 from Figure 1) conducts the inductor the 3.3V is on whenever the 1.8V is on, the BD pin can be
current during the switch off time. Use a Schottky diode connected to the 3.3V output. (see Output Voltage Tracking).
rated for 1A to 2A average current. Peak reverse voltage Be sure that the maximum voltage at the BOOST pin is less
across the diode is equal to the regulator input voltage. than 80V and the voltage difference between the BOOST
Use a diode with a reverse voltage rating greater than the and SW pins is less than 30V. The minimum operating
input voltage. The OVLO function of the LT3988 turns off voltage of an LT3988 application is limited by the internal
the switch when VIN > 64V (typ) allowing use of Schottky 4V undervoltage lockout and by the maximum duty cycle.
3988f

12
 LT3988
Applications Information
VIN3 > 3V

BD BOOST C3 BD BOOST C3 BD BOOST

VIN VIN SW VOUT VIN VIN SW VOUT VIN VIN SW VOUT

GND GND GND

VBOOST – VSW ≅ VOUT VBOOST – VSW ≅ VIN VBOOST – VSW ≅ VIN3

MAX VBOOST ≅ VIN + VOUT MAX VBOOST ≅ 2VIN MAX VBOOST ≅ VIN3 + VIN 3988 F02

MIN VALUE FOR VIN3 = 3V

(2a) (2b) (2c)

Figure 2. Generating the Boost Voltage

The boost circuit also limits the minimum input voltage for Converter with Backup Output Regulator
proper start-up. If the input voltage ramps slowly, or the There is another situation to consider: systems where the
LT3988 turns on when the output is already in regulation, output will be held high when the input to the LT3988 is
the boost capacitor may not be fully charged. Because absent. If the VIN pin is grounded while the output is held
the boost capacitor charges with the energy stored in the high, then diodes inside the LT3988 can pull large currents
inductor, the circuit will rely on some minimum load current from the output through the SW and VIN pins. A Schottky
to get the boost circuit running properly. This minimum diode in series with the input to the LT3988, as shown in
load will depend on input and output voltages, and on the Figure 3, will protect the LT3988 and the system from a
arrangement of the boost circuit. The minimum load cur- shorted or reversed input.
rent generally goes to zero once the circuit has started.
Figure 4 shows a plot of input voltage to start and to run LT3988
as a function of load current. Even without an output load D4
SW
current, in many cases the discharged output capacitor VIN VOUT

will present a load to the switcher that will allow it to start.

GND
The boost current is generally small but can become sig-
nificant at high duty cycles. The required boost current is: 3988 F03

 V  I  Figure 3. Diode D4 Prevents a Shorted Input from

IBOOST =  OUT   OUT  Discharging a Backup Battery Tied to the Output
 VIN   40 

Minimum Input Voltage, VOUT = 3.3V Minimum Input Voltage, VOUT = 5V

5.5 7.0
TA = 25°C TA = 25°C

5.0 6.6
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)

INPUT VOLTAGE (V)

TO START TO START

4.5 6.2

4.0 5.8
TO RUN
TO RUN

3.5 5.4
0 200 400 600 800 1000 0 200 400 600 800 1000
LOAD CURRENT (mA) LOAD CURRENT (mA)
3988 F04a 3988 F04b

Figure 4. The Minimum Input Voltage Depends on Output Voltage, Load Current, and Boost Circuit
3988f

13
LT3988
Applications Information
Input Capacitor Selection capacitor. For the electrolytic capacitor, a value larger than
Bypass the input of the LT3988 circuit with a 4.7μF or higher 10μF will be required to meet the ESR and ripple current
ceramic capacitor of X7R or X5R type. A lower value or requirements. Because the input capacitor is likely to see
a less expensive Y5V type will work if there is additional high surge currents when the input source is applied, tan-
bypassing provided by bulk electrolytic capacitors, or if the talum capacitors should be surge rated. The manufacturer
input source impedance is low. The following paragraphs may also recommend operation below the rated voltage
describe the input capacitor considerations in more detail. of the capacitor. Be sure to place the 1μF ceramic as close
as possible to the VIN and GND pins on the IC for optimal
Step-down regulators draw current from the input supply noise immunity.
in pulses with very fast rise and fall times. The input ca-
A final caution is in order regarding the use of ceramic
pacitor is required to reduce the resulting voltage ripple at
capacitors at the input. A ceramic input capacitor can
the LT3988 input and to force this switching current into a
combine with stray inductance to form a resonant tank
tight local loop, minimizing EMI. The input capacitor must
circuit. If power is applied quickly (for example by plugging
have low impedance at the switching frequency to do this
the circuit into a live power source), this tank can ring,
effectively and it must have an adequate ripple current rat-
doubling the input voltage and damaging the LT3988. The
ing. With two switchers operating at the same frequency
solution is to either clamp the input voltage or dampen the
but with different phases and duty cycles, calculating the
tank circuit by adding a lossy capacitor in parallel with the
input capacitor RMS current is not simple; however, a
ceramic capacitor. For details, see Application Note 88.
conservative value is the RMS input current for the phase
delivering the most power (VOUT • IOUT): Frequency Compensation
VOUT ( VIN – VOUT ) I The LT3988 uses current mode control to regulate the
IIN(RMS) = IOUT • < OUT
VIN 2 output. This simplifies loop compensation. In particular, the
LT3988 does not depend on the ESR of the output capacitor
and is largest when VIN = 2VOUT (50% duty cycle). As for stability, so you are free to use ceramic capacitors to
the second, lower power channel draws input current, achieve low output ripple and small circuit size. The LT3988
the input capacitor’s RMS current actually decreases as is internally compensated with the RC network tied to the
the out-of-phase current cancels the current drawn by the VC node. The internal compensation network is optimized
higher power channel. Considering that the maximum load to provide stability over the full frequency range. Figure 5
current from a single phase (if SW1 and SW2 are both at shows an equivalent circuit for the LT3988 control loop.
maximum current) is ~1A, RMS ripple current will always The error amplifier is a transconductance amplifier with
be less than 0.5A.
LT3988 CURRENT MODE
The high frequency of the LT3988 reduces the energy POWER STAGE
storage requirements of the input capacitor, so that the gm = 2A/V OUT
capacitance required is often less than 10μF. The combi- R1 CPL
nation of small size and low impedance (low equivalent FB

series resistance or ESR) of ceramic capacitors makes VC

gm = 40µA/V
RESR

them the preferred choice. The low ESR results in very RC 7M

low voltage ripple. Ceramic capacitors can handle larger 300k ERROR
COUT
CC AMPLIFIER 0.75V
magnitudes of ripple current than other capacitor types 40pF
R2

of the same value.

An alternative to a high value ceramic capacitor is a lower 3988 F05

value along with a larger electrolytic capacitor, for example Figure 5. Model For Loop Response
a 1μF ceramic capacitor in parallel with a low ESR tantalum
3988f

14
 LT3988
Applications Information
finite output impedance. The power section, consisting of The EN/UVLO pin may be driven by a voltage divider from
the modulator, power switch and inductor, is modeled as a VIN1, allowing an externally programmable undervoltage
transconductance amplifier generating an output current lockout to be set above the internal 3.9V threshold. The
proportional to the voltage at the VC node. undervoltage threshold and hysteresis are given by:
Note that the output capacitor integrates this current, and  R1 V 
that the capacitor on the VC node (CC) integrates the er- VUVTH = 1.2  1+  ;R1= R2  UVTH – 1
 R2   1.2 
ror amplifier output current, resulting in two poles in the
loop. RC provides a zero. With the recommended output
 R1 V 
capacitor, the loop crossover occurs above the RCCC zero. VUVHY = 0.12  1+  ;R1= R2  UVHY – 1
This simple model works well as long as the value of the  R2   0.12 
inductor is not too high and the loop crossover frequency
is much lower than the switching frequency. With a larger VIN1

ceramic capacitor (very low ESR), crossover may be lower R1

and a phase lead capacitor (CPL) across the feedback EN/UVLO –
divider may improve the phase margin and transient R2 UVLO
response. Large electrolytic capacitors may have an ESR 1.2V +
large enough to create an additional zero, and the phase 3988 F06

lead may not be necessary. If the output capacitor is dif- Figure 6. Undervoltage Lockout Circuit
ferent than the recommended capacitor, stability should
be checked across all operating conditions, including Output Voltage Tracking
load current, input voltage and temperature. The LT1375 The LT3988 allows the user to program how the output
data sheet contains a more thorough discussion of loop ramps up by means of the TRACK/SS pins. Through these
compensation and describes how to test the stability us- pins, either channel output can be set up to either coin-
ing a transient load. cidently or ratiometrically track the other channel output.
This example will show the channel 2 output tracking the
Shutdown
channel 1 output, as shown in Figure 7.
The EN/UVLO pin is used for two purposes, to place the
The TRACK/SS2 pin acts as a clamp on channel 2’s ref-
LT3988 in a low current shutdown mode, and to override
erence voltage. VOUT2 is referenced to the TRACK/SS2
the internal undervoltage lockout thresholds with a user
voltage when the TRACK/SS2 < 0.8V and to the internal
programmable threshold. When the EN/UVLO pin is pulled
precision reference when TRACK/SS2 > 0.8V. To imple-
to under 0.5V (typ), the LT3988 is in shutdown mode and
ment the coincident tracking in Figure 7, connect an extra
draws less than 1µA from the input supply. When the
resistive divider to the output of channel 1 and connect its
EN/UVLO pin is driven above 0.5V (typ) and less than 1.2V
midpoint to the TRACK/SS2 pin (Figure 8).
(typ), the internal regulator is activated and the oscillators
are operating, but the switching operation of both chan- The ratio of this divider should be selected to be the
nels remains inhibited. When the EV/UVLO pin is driven same as that of channel 2’s feedback divider (R5 = R3
above 1.2V (typ), the undervoltage lockout asserted by the and R6 = R4). In this tracking mode, VOUT1 must be set
EN/UVLO function is released, allowing switching opera- higher than VOUT2. To implement the ratiometric tracking
tion of both channels. Internal undervoltage detectors will in Figure 6, change the extra divider ratio to R5 = R1 and
still prevent switching operation on channel 1 until VIN1 is R6 = R2 + ΔR. The extra resistance on R6 should be set
greater than 3.9V (typ) and on channel 2 until VIN2 is greater so that the TRACK/SS2 voltage is ≥1V when VOUT1 is at
than 2.6V (typ). The EN/UVLO undervoltage lockout has its final value. The need for this extra resistance is best
120mV (typ) of hysteresis. The EN/UVLO pin is rated up understood with the help of the equivalent input circuit
to 80V and can be connected directly to the input voltage. shown in Figure 9.
3988f

15
LT3988
Applications Information
VOUT1
I I
OUTPUT VOLTAGE

1.36µA
+
D1 D2 gm
TRACK/SS
VOUT2 –
0.75V
D3
FB 3988 F09

Figure 9. Equivalent Input Circuit of Error Amplifier

TIME At the input stage of the error amplifier, two common anode
Coincident Tracking diodes are used to clamp the equivalent reference voltage
and an additional diode is used to match the shifted com-
mon mode voltage. The top two current sources are of the
VOUT1
same amplitude. In the coincident mode, the TRACK/SS2
voltage is substantially higher than 0.75V at steady state
OUTPUT VOLTAGE

and effectively turns off D1. D2 and D3 will therefore con-

VOUT2
duct the same current and offer tight matching between
VFB2 and the internal precision 0.75V reference. In the
ratiometric mode with R6 = R2, TRACK/SS2 equals 0.75V
at steady state. D1 will divert part of the bias current and
3988 F07
make VFB2 slightly lower than 0.75V. Although this error
TIME is minimized by the exponential I-V characteristic of the
Ratiometric Tracking diodes, it does impose a finite amount of output voltage
Figure 7. Two Different Modes of Output Voltage Tracking deviation. Further, when channel 1’s output experiences
dynamic excursions (under load transient, for example),
VOUT1 VOUT2
channel 2 will be affected as well. Setting R6 to a value
R5 R1 R3 that pushes the TRK/SS2 voltage to 1V at steady state will
TO
TRK/SS2
TO
FB1
TO
FB2
eliminate these problems while providing near ratiometric
PIN
R6 R2
PIN
R4
PIN tracking. The example shows channel 2 tracking channel 1,
however either channel may be set up to track the other.

SELECTING VALUES FOR R5 AND R6 Soft-Start

COINCIDENT RATIOMETRIC
R5 = R3 R1 If a capacitor is tied from the TRACK/SS pin to ground,
R6 = R4 R1 then the internal pull-up current will generate a voltage
VOUT1/1V – 1
3988 F08
ramp on this pin. This results in a ramp at the output,
limiting the inductor current and therefore input current
R1 VOUT1 R3 VOUT2 during start-up. A good value for the soft-start capacitor
= – 1, = –1
R2 0.75 R4 0.75 is COUT/10,000, where COUT is the value of the output
capacitor.
Figure 8. Setup for Coincident and Ratiometric Tracking

3988f

16
 LT3988
Applications Information
Independent Input Voltages the input current at VIN2 when VOUT2 is at maximum load.
Figure 10 shows a 12V to 5V, and 1.8V 2-stage converter
VIN1 and VIN2 are independent and can be powered with
using this approach.
different voltages provided VIN1 is present when VIN2 is
present. Each supply must be bypassed as close to the VIN PCB Layout
pins as possible. For applications requiring large inductors
due to high VIN to VOUT ratios, a 2-stage step-down ap- For proper operation and minimum EMI, care must be
proach may reduce inductor size by allowing an increase taken during printed circuit board (PCB) layout. Figure 11
in frequency. A dual step-down application steps down shows the high current paths in the step-down regula-
the input voltage (VIN1) to the highest output voltage, then tor circuit. Note that in the step-down regulators large,
uses that voltage to power the other output (VIN2). VOUT1 switched currents flow in the power switch, the catch
must be able to provide enough current for its output plus diode and the input capacitor. The loop formed by these

VIN
VOUT1
12V
4.7µF 4.7µF
VIN1 VIN2
EN/UVLO
TRACK/SS1 TRACK/SS2
2200pF 2200pF
SYNC RT
40.2k
LT3988
BD
BOOST1 BOOST2
0.22µF 0.22µF
6.8µH 3.3µH
VOUT1 VOUT2
SW1 SW2
5V, 500mA 1.8V, 500mA

57.6k DA1 DA2 14k

FB1 FB2
GND
10µF 10.2k 10k 22µF

3988 F10

Figure 10. 1MHz, 2-Stage Step-Down 5V and 1.8V Outputs

VIN SW VIN SW

GND GND

(11a) (11b)
VSW

VIN SW L1

IC1 C1 D1 C2
GND

3988 F11
(11c)

Figure 11. Subtracting the Current When the Switch Is ON (11a) From the Current When the Switch Is OFF (11b) Reveals the Path of
the High Frequency Switching Current (11c). Keep this Loop Small. The Voltage on the SW and Boost Nodes Will Also Be Switched;
Keep These Nodes as Small as Possible. Finally, Make Sure the Circuit Is Shielded with a Local Ground Plane
3988f

17
LT3988
Applications Information
components should be as small as possible. Place these for the H-grade). The die temperature is calculated by
components, along with the inductor and output capacitor, multiplying the LT3988 power dissipation by the thermal
on the same side of the circuit board and connect them resistance from junction to ambient. Power dissipation
on that layer. Place a local, unbroken ground plane below within the LT3988 can be estimated by calculating the total
these components and tie this ground plane to system power loss from an efficiency measurement and subtract-
ground at one location, ideally at the ground terminal of ing the catch diode loss. Thermal resistance depends on
the output capacitor. Additionally, keep the SW and BOOST the layout of the circuit board, but values from 30°C/W
nodes as small as possible. Figure 12 shows an example to 60°C/W are typical.
of proper PCB layout.
Related Linear Technology Publications
Thermal Considerations Application Notes 19, 35, 44, 76 and 88 contain more
The die temperature of the LT3988 must be lower than the detailed descriptions and design information for buck
maximum rating of 125°C (150°C for the H-grade). This is regulators and other switching regulators. The LT1375
generally not a concern unless the ambient temperature is data sheet has a more extensive discussion of output
above 85°C. For higher temperatures, care should be taken ripple, loop compensation, and stability testing. Design
in the layout of the circuit to ensure good heat sinking of Note 318 shows how to generate a dual polarity output
the LT3988. The maximum load current should be derated supply using a buck regulator.
as the ambient temperature approaches 125°C (150°C

C3 R4 R3 R5 C4

R6 R7

C1 C2

U1

D1 D2

C7 C8

L1 L2
C9 C10

3988 F12

Figure 12. Sample PC Board Layout

3988f

18
 LT3988
Typical Applications
400kHz, 5V and 3.3V Outputs
VIN
7V TO 40V C1
80V TRANSIENT 4.7µF VIN1 VIN2
EN/UVLO
TRACK/SS1 TRACK/SS2
C2 C3
2200pF 2200pF
SYNC RT
R1
118k
LT3988
fSW = 400kHz
BD
BOOST1 BOOST2
L1 C4 C5 L2
22µH 0.22µF 0.22µF 15µH
VOUT1 VOUT2
SW1 SW2
5V, 1A 3.3V, 1A
D1 D2
R2 R4
57.6k DA1 DA2 34k
FB1 FB2
C6 R3 GND R5 C7
47µF 10.2k 10k 47µF
3988 TA02

C1 TO C7: X5R OR X7R

D1, D2: DIODES, INC. B160

3988f

19
LT3988
Typical Applications
1MHz, Wide Input Range 5V and 1.8V Outputs
VIN
VOUT1
7V TO 24V C1
80V TRANSIENT 4.7µF
4.7µF VIN1 VIN2
EN/UVLO
TRACK/SS1 TRACK/SS2
C2 C3
2200pF 2200pF
SYNC RT
R1
40.2k
LT3988
fSW = 1MHz
BD
BOOST1 BOOST2
L1 C4 C5 L2
6.8µH 0.22µF 0.22µF 3.3µH
VOUT1 VOUT2
SW1 SW2
5V, 0.5A 1.8V, 0.5A
D1 D2
R2 R4
57.6k DA1 DA2 14k
FB1 FB2
C6 R3 GND R5 C7
22µF 10.2k 10k 22µF
3988 TA03

C1 TO C7: X5R OR X7R

D1: DIODES, INC. B160
D2: DIODES, INC. B120

3988f

20
 LT3988
Typical Applications
700kHz, 24V and 12V Outputs with Coincident Tracking
VIN1 VIN2
26V TO 60V C1 C2 14V TO 60V
80V TRANSIENT 4.7µF VIN1 VIN2 4.7µF
EN/UVLO
TRACK/SS1
C3
2200pF
RT
SYNC R1
R2 LT3988 61.9k
10k fSW = 700kHz
TRACK/SS2 BD
R4 BOOST1 BOOST2
R3 4.7k C4 C5 L2
309k
0.22µF 0.22µF 22µH
VOUT1 VOUT2
SW1 SW2
24V, 1A L1 12V, 1A
47µH D1 D2
R5 R7
309k DA1 DA2 150k
FB1 FB2
C6 R6 GND R8 C7
10µF 10k 10k 10µF
3988 TA04

C1 TO C7: X5R OR X7R

D1, D2: DIODES, INC. B160
R4: USE 0.25W RESISTOR
DERATE OUTPUT CURRENT AT HIGHER AMBIENT TEMPERATURES AND INPUT VOLTAGES
TO MAINTAIN JUNCTION TEMPERATURE BELOW THE ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM.

3988f

21
LT3988
Typical Applications
400kHz, 3.3V and 2.5V Outputs
VIN
5.5V TO 32V C1
80V TRANSIENT 4.7µF VIN1 VIN2
EN/UVLO
TRACK/SS1 TRACK/SS2
C2 C3
2200pF 2200pF
SYNC RT
R1
118k
LT3988
fSW = 400kHz
BD VOUT1
BOOST1 BOOST2
L1 C4 C5 L2
10µH 0.22µF 0.22µF 10µH
VOUT1 VOUT2
SW1 SW2
3.3V, 1A 2.5V, 1A
D1 D2
R2 R4
34k DA1 DA2 23.2k
FB1 FB2
C6 R3 GND R5 C7
47µF 10k 10k 47µF
3988 TA05

C1 TO C7: X5R OR X7R

D1, D2: DIODES, INC. B180

3988f

22
 LT3988
Package Description
Please refer to [Link] for the most recent package drawings.

MSE Package
16-Lead Plastic MSOP, Exposed Die Pad
(Reference LTC DWG # 05-08-1667 Rev E)

BOTTOM VIEW OF
EXPOSED PAD OPTION
2.845 ±0.102 2.845 ±0.102
(.112 ±.004) 0.889 ±0.127 (.112 ±.004)
(.035 ±.005)
1 8 0.35
REF

5.23 1.651 ±0.102

1.651 ±0.102 3.20 – 3.45
(.206) 0.12 REF
(.065 ±.004) (.126 – .136) (.065 ±.004)
MIN
DETAIL “B”
CORNER TAIL IS PART OF
DETAIL “B” THE LEADFRAME FEATURE.
16 9 FOR REFERENCE ONLY
0.305 ±0.038 0.50 NO MEASUREMENT PURPOSE
(.0120 ±.0015) (.0197) 4.039 ±0.102
TYP BSC (.159 ±.004)
(NOTE 3) 0.280 ±0.076
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD LAYOUT
16151413121110 9 (.011 ±.003)
REF
DETAIL “A”
0.254
(.010) 3.00 ±0.102
0° – 6° TYP 4.90 ±0.152
(.118 ±.004)
(.193 ±.006)
GAUGE PLANE (NOTE 4)

0.53 ±0.152
(.021 ±.006)
1234567 8
DETAIL “A” 1.10 0.86
0.18 (.043) (.034)
(.007) MAX REF

SEATING
PLANE 0.17 – 0.27 0.1016 ±0.0508
(.007 – .011) (.004 ±.002)
TYP 0.50
NOTE: (.0197)
MSOP (MSE16) 0911 REV E

1. DIMENSIONS IN MILLIMETER/(INCH) BSC

2. DRAWING NOT TO SCALE
3. DIMENSION DOES NOT INCLUDE MOLD FLASH, PROTRUSIONS OR GATE BURRS.
MOLD FLASH, PROTRUSIONS OR GATE BURRS SHALL NOT EXCEED 0.152mm (.006") PER SIDE
4. DIMENSION DOES NOT INCLUDE INTERLEAD FLASH OR PROTRUSIONS.
INTERLEAD FLASH OR PROTRUSIONS SHALL NOT EXCEED 0.152mm (.006") PER SIDE
5. LEAD COPLANARITY (BOTTOM OF LEADS AFTER FORMING) SHALL BE 0.102mm (.004") MAX
6. EXPOSED PAD DIMENSION DOES INCLUDE MOLD FLASH. MOLD FLASH ON E-PAD SHALL
NOT EXCEED 0.254mm (.010") PER SIDE.

3988f

Information furnished by Linear Technology Corporation is believed to be accurate and reliable.

However, no responsibility is assumed for its use. Linear Technology Corporation makes no representa-
tion that the interconnection of its circuits as described herein will not infringe on existing patent rights. 23
LT3988
Typical Application
500kHz External Sync, 5V and 3.3V Outputs with 6V UVLO
VIN
7V TO 30V C1
80V TRANSIENT R6
40.2k 4.7µF VIN1 VIN2
EN/UVLO
R7 TRACK/SS1 TRACK/SS2
10k C2 C3
1000pF 1000pF
LT3988 RT
R1
500kHz 100k
SYNC
CLOCK
BD
BOOST1 BOOST2
L1 C4 C5 L2
15µH 0.22µF 0.22µF 10µH
VOUT1 VOUT2
SW1 SW2
5V, 1A 3.3V, 1A
D1 D2
R2 R4
57.6k DA1 DA2 34k
FB1 FB2
C6 R3 GND R5 C7
22pF
22µF 10.2k 10k 47µF
3988 TA06

C1 TO C7: X5R OR X7R

D1, D2: DIODES, INC. B180
EN/UVLO THRESHOLD = 6.02V

Related Parts
PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION COMMENTS
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High Efficiency Step-Down DC/DC Converter 3mm × 4mm DFN-14, MSOP-16E
LT3508 36V with Transient Protection to 40V, Dual 1.4A (IOUT), 2.5MHz, High VIN: 3.7V to 36V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.8V, IQ = 4.6mA, ISD = 1µA,
Efficiency Step-Down DC/DC Converter 4mm × 4mm QFN-24, TSSOP-16E
LT3980 58V with Transient Protection to 80V, 2A (IOUT), 2.4MHz, High VIN: 3.6V to 58V, Transient to 80V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.79V, IQ = 75µA,
Efficiency Step-Down DC/DC Converter with Burst Mode® Operation ISD < 1µA, 3mm × 4mm DFN-16, MSOP-16E
LT3970 40V, 350mA (IOUT), 2MHz, High Efficiency Step-Down DC/DC VIN: 4.2V to 40V, VOUT(MIN) = 1.2V, IQ = 2.5µA, ISD < 1µA,
Converter with Only 2.5µA of Quiescent Current 2mm × 3mm DFN-10, MSOP-10
LT3990 60V, 350mA (IOUT), 2MHz, High Efficiency Step-Down DC/DC VIN: 4.2V to 60V, VOUT(MIN) = 1.2V, IQ = 2.5µA, ISD < 1µA,
Converter with only 2.5µA of Quiescent Current 3mm × 3mm DFN-10, MSOP-16E
LT3971 38V, 1.2A (IOUT), 2MHz, High Efficiency Step-Down DC/DC Converter VIN: 4.2V to 38V, VOUT(MIN) = 1.2V, IQ = 2.8µA, ISD < 1µA,
with Only 2.8µA of Quiescent Current 3mm × 3mm DFN-10, MSOP-10E
LT3991 55V, 1.2A (IOUT), 2MHz, High Efficiency Step-Down DC/DC Converter VIN: 4.2V to 55V, VOUT(MIN) = 1.2V, IQ = 2.8µA, ISD < 1µA,
with Only 2.8µA of Quiescent Current 3mm × 3mm DFN-10, MSOP-10E
LT3507/LT3507A 36V, Triple 2.4A,1.4A, and 1.4A (IOUT), 2.5MHz, High Efficiency VIN: 4V to 36V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.8V, IQ = 7mA, ISD = 1µA,
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LT3680 36V, 3A, 2.4MHz High Efficiency MicroPower Step-Down DC/DC VIN: 3.6V to 36V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.8V, IQ = 75µA, ISD < 1µA,
Converter 3mm × 3mm DFN-10, MSOP-10E
LT3693 36V, 3A, 2.4MHz High Efficiency Step-Down DC/DC Converter VIN: 3.6V to 36V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.8V, IQ = 1.3mA, ISD < 1µA,
3mm × 3mm DFN-10, MSOP-10E
LT3480 36V with Transient Protection to 60V, 2A (IOUT), 2.4MHz, High VIN: 3.6V to 38V, Transient to 60V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.78V, IQ = 70µA,
Efficiency Step-Down DC/DC Converter with Burst Mode Operation ISD < 1µA, 3mm × 3mm DFN-10, MSOP-10E

3988f

24 Linear Technology Corporation

LT 0412 • PRINTED IN USA

1630 McCarthy Blvd., Milpitas, CA 95035-7417

(408) 432-1900 ● FAX: (408) 434-0507 ● [Link]  LINEAR TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION 2012