LT8614

42V, 4A Synchronous
Step-Down Silent Switcher
with 2.5µA Quiescent Current
FEATURES DESCRIPTION
nn Silent Switcher® Architecture The LT®8614 step-down regulator features Silent Switcher
nn Ultralow EMI Emissions architecture designed to minimize EMI emissions while
nn High Efficiency at High Frequency delivering high efficiency at frequencies up to 3MHz.
nn Up to 96% Efficiency at 1MHz, 12V to 5V Assembled in a 3mm × 4mm QFN, the monolithic con-
IN OUT
nn Up to 94% Efficiency at 2MHz, 12V to 5V struction with integrated power switches and inclusion of
IN OUT
nn Wide Input Voltage Range: 3.4V to 42V all necessary circuitry yields a solution with a minimal PCB
nn Ultralow Quiescent Current Burst Mode® Operation: footprint. An ultralow 2.5µA quiescent current—with the
nn 2.5μA I Regulating 12V to 3.3V output in full regulation— enables applications requiring
Q IN OUT
nn Output Ripple < 10mV highest efficiency at very small load currents. Transient
P-P
nn Fast Minimum Switch On-Time: 30ns response remains excellent and output voltage ripple is
nn Low Dropout Under All Conditions: 125mV at 1A below 10mVP-P at any load, from zero to full current.
nn Safely Tolerates Inductor Saturation in Overload
The LT8614 allows high VIN to low VOUT conversion at high
nn Adjustable and Synchronizable: 200kHz to 3MHz
frequency with a fast minimum top switch on-time of 30ns.
nn Peak Current Mode Operation
Operation is safe in overload even with a saturated inductor.
nn Accurate 1V Enable Pin Threshold
nn Internal Compensation Essential features are included and easy to use: An open-
nn Output Soft-Start and Tracking drain PG pin signals when the output is in regulation. The
nn Small 18-Lead 3mm × 4mm QFN SYNC pin allows clock synchronization and choice of Burst
Mode operation or pulse-skipping mode. Soft-start and
tracking functionality is accessed via the TR/SS pin. An
APPLICATIONS accurate enable threshold can be set using the EN/UV pin
nn Automotive and Industrial Supplies and a resistor at the RT pin programs switch frequency.
nn General Purpose Step-Down All registered trademarks and trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Protected
by U.S. patents, including 8823345.
nn GSM Power Supplies

TYPICAL APPLICATION 12VIN to 5VOUT Efficiency

100
5V 4A Step-Down Converter 1MHz
95
VIN 2MHz
5.8V TO 42V 90
4.7µF EN/UV
VIN1 VIN2
EFFICIENCY (%)

1µF 1µF 85
GND1 GND2
80
LT8614
PG BST
0.1µF 4.7µH VOUT 75
10nF
SYNC/MODE SW 5V
TR/SS BIAS 4A 70
1µF 4.7pF 1M
65
INTVCC FB 47µF
41.2k
243k 60
RT GND 0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0
LOAD CURRENT (A) 8614 TA01b
fSW = 1MHz 8614 TA01a

Rev. E

Document Feedback For more information www.analog.com 1

LT8614
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS PIN CONFIGURATION
(Note 1)
VIN, EN/UV, PG...........................................................42V TOP VIEW

SYNC/MODE
BIAS...........................................................................30V
BST Pin Above SW Pin................................................4V

GND
PG
FB
FB, TR/SS, RT, INTVCC ................................................4V 20 19 18 17
SYNC/MODE Voltage ..................................................6V
BIAS 1 16 TR/SS
Operating Junction Temperature Range (Note 2)
INTVCC 2 15 RT
LT8614E.............................................. –40°C to 125°C
BST 3 14 EN/UV
LT8614I............................................... –40°C to 125°C 22
VIN1 4 13 VIN2
LT8614H............................................. –40°C to 150°C SW

LT8614MP OBSOLETE........................ –55°C to 150°C 21

GND1 6 SW 11 GND2
Storage Temperature Range................... –65°C to 150°C
7 8 9 10

GND1
SW
SW
GND2
UDC PACKAGE
18-LEAD (3mm × 4mm) PLASTIC QFN
θJA = 40°C/W, θJC(PAD) = 12°C/W (Note 3)
EXPOSED PAD (PINS 21, 22) ARE SW, SHOULD BE SOLDERED TO PCB
NOTE: PINS 5, 12 ARE REMOVED. CONFIGURATION DOES NOT MATCH
JEDEC 20-PIN PACKAGE OUTLINE

ORDER INFORMATION
LEAD FREE FINISH TAPE AND REEL PART MARKING* PACKAGE DESCRIPTION TEMPERATURE RANGE
LT8614EUDC#PBF LT8614EUDC#TRPBF LGGQ 18-Lead (3mm × 4mm) Plastic QFN –40°C to 125°C
LT8614IUDC#PBF LT8614IUDC#TRPBF LGGQ 18-Lead (3mm × 4mm) Plastic QFN –40°C to 125°C
LT8614HUDC#PBF LT8614HUDC#TRPBF LGGQ 18-Lead (3mm × 4mm) Plastic QFN –40°C to 150°C
OBSOLETE
LT8614MPUDC#PBF LT8614MPUDC#TRPBF LGGQ 18-Lead (3mm × 4mm) Plastic QFN –55°C to 150°C
Contact the factory for parts specified with wider operating temperature ranges. *The temperature grade is identified by a label on the shipping container.
Tape and reel specifications. Some packages are available in 500 unit reels through designated sales channels with #TRMPBF suffix.

ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The l denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C.
PARAMETER CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
Minimum Input Voltage l 2.9 3.4 V
VIN Quiescent Current VEN/UV = 0V 1.0 3 µA
l 1.0 8 µA
VEN/UV = 2V, Not Switching, VSYNC = 0V 1.7 4 µA
l 1.7 10 µA
VEN/UV = 2V, Not Switching, VSYNC = 2V 0.26 0.5 mA
VIN Current in Regulation VOUT = 0.97V, VIN = 6V, Output Load = 100µA l 21 50 µA
VOUT = 0.97V, VIN = 6V, Output Load = 1mA l 210 350 µA

2 For more information www.analog.com

 LT8614
ELECTRICAL
The CHARACTERISTICS l denotes the specifications which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifications are at TA = 25°C.
PARAMETER CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
Feedback Reference Voltage VIN = 6V, ILOAD = 0.5A 0.964 0.970 0.976 V
VIN = 6V, ILOAD = 0.5A l 0.958 0.970 0.982 V
Feedback Voltage Line Regulation VIN = 4.0V to 42V, ILOAD = 0.5A l 0.004 0.02 %/V
Feedback Pin Input Current VFB = 1V –20 20 nA
INTVCC Voltage ILOAD = 0mA, VBIAS = 0V 3.23 3.4 3.57 V
ILOAD = 0mA, VBIAS = 3.3V 3.25 3.29 3.35 V
INTVCC Undervoltage Lockout 2.5 2.6 2.7 V
BIAS Pin Current Consumption VBIAS = 3.3V, ILOAD = 1A, 2MHz 9 mA
Minimum On-Time ILOAD = 1.5A, SYNC = 0V l 15 30 45 ns
ILOAD = 1.5A, SYNC = 3.3V l 15 30 45 ns
Minimum Off-Time 80 110 ns
Oscillator Frequency RT = 221k, ILOAD = 1A l 180 210 240 kHz
RT = 60.4k, ILOAD = 1A l 665 700 735 kHz
RT = 18.2k, ILOAD = 1A l 1.85 2.00 2.15 MHz
Top Power NMOS On-Resistance ISW = 1A 85 mΩ
Top Power NMOS Current Limit l 5.7 8.5 10 A
Bottom Power NMOS On-Resistance VINTVCC = 3.4V, ISW = 1A 40 mΩ
Bottom Power NMOS Current Limit VINTVCC = 3.4V l 4.5 6.9 8.5 A
SW Leakage Current VIN = 42V, VSW = 0V, 42V –1.5 1.5 µA
EN/UV Pin Threshold EN/UV Rising l 0.94 1.0 1.06 V
EN/UV Pin Hysteresis 40 mV
EN/UV Pin Current VEN/UV = 2V –20 20 nA
PG Upper Threshold Offset from VFB VFB Falling l 6 9.0 12 %
PG Lower Threshold Offset from VFB VFB Rising l –6 –9.0 –12 %
PG Hysteresis 1.2 %
PG Leakage VPG = 3.3V –40 40 nA
PG Pull-Down Resistance VPG = 0.1V l 650 2000 Ω
SYNC Threshold SYNC Falling 0.8 1.1 1.4 V
SYNC Rising 1.6 2.0 2.4 V
SYNC Pin Current VSYNC = 6V –40 40 nA
TR/SS Source Current l 1.5 2.2 2.9 µA
TR/SS Pull-Down Resistance Fault Condition, TR/SS = 0.1V 200 Ω

Note 1: Stresses beyond those listed under Absolute Maximum Ratings High junction temperatures degrade operating lifetimes. Operating lifetime
may cause permanent damage to the device. Exposure to any Absolute is derated at junction temperatures greater than 125°C.
Maximum Rating condition for extended periods may affect device Note 3: θ values determined per JEDEC 51-7, 51-12. See the Applications
reliability and lifetime. Information section for information on improving the thermal resistance.
Note 2: The LT8614E is guaranteed to meet performance specifications Note 4: This IC includes overtemperature protection that is intended to
from 0°C to 125°C junction temperature. Specifications over the –40°C protect the device during overload conditions. Junction temperature will
to 125°C operating junction temperature range are assured by design, exceed 150°C when overtemperature protection is active. Continuous
characterization, and correlation with statistical process controls. The operation above the specified maximum operating junction temperature
LT8614I is guaranteed over the full –40°C to 125°C operating junction will reduce lifetime.
temperature range. The LT8614H is guaranteed to meet performance
specifications from –40°C to 150°C operating junction temperature range.

Rev. E

For more information www.analog.com 3

 LT8614
TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS

Efficiency at 5VOUT Efficiency at 3.3VOUT Efficiency at 5VOUT

100 100 100
95 95 90
90 90 80
85 85 70

EFFICIENCY (%)
EFFICIENCY (%)

EFFICIENCY (%)
80 80 60
75 75 50
70 70 40
65 fSW = 1MHz 65 fSW = 1MHz 30 fSW = 1MHz
L = 4.7µH L = 2.2µH L = 4.7µH
60 VIN = 12V 60 VIN = 12V 20 VIN = 12V
55 VIN = 24V 55 VIN = 24V 10 VIN = 24V
VIN = 36V VIN = 36V VIN = 36V
50 50 0
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 0.01 0.1 1 10 100 1000
LOAD CURRENT (A) LOAD CURRENT (A) LOAD CURRENT (mA)
8614 G01 8614 G02 8614 G03

Burst Mode Efficiency

Efficiency at 3.3VOUT Efficiency vs Frequency vs Inductor Value
100 98 95
VOUT = 5V VOUT = 5V VIN = 12V
90 ILOAD = 1A ILOAD = 10mA
96 90
80 L = 8.6µH

70 94 VIN = 12V
85
EFFICIENCY (%)
EFFICIENCY (%)

EFFICIENCY (%)
60 VIN = 24V
92
50 VIN = 24V 80
90
40
fSW = 1MHz 75
30 88
L = 4.7µH
20 VIN = 12V
86 70
10 VIN = 24V
VIN = 36V
0 84 65
0.01 0.1 1 10 100 1000 0.25 0.75 1.25 1.75 2.25 2.75 0 2 4 6 8 10
LOAD CURRENT (mA) SWITCHING FREQUENCY (MHz) INDUCTOR VALUE (µH)
8614 G04 8614 G05 8614 G06

Reference Voltage EN Pin Thresholds Load Regulation

0.979 1.03 0.15
VOUT = 5V
0.977 1.02 VIN = 12V
0.10
0.975 EN RISING
1.01
REFERENCE VOLAGE (V)

CHANGE IN VOUT (%)

EN THRESHOLD (V)

0.973 0.05
1.00
0.971
0.99 0
0.969
0.98
0.967 –0.05

0.965 0.97 EN FALLING

–0.10
0.963 0.96

0.961 0.95 –0.15

–50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4
TEMPERATURE (°C) TEMPERATURE (°C) LOAD CURRENT (A)
8614 G07 8614 G08 8614 G09

4 For more information www.analog.com

 LT8614
TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS

Line Regulation No-Load Supply Current No-Load Supply Current

0.10 5.0 25
VOUT = 5V VOUT = 3.3V VOUT = 3.3V
0.08 ILOAD = 1A 4.5 IN REGULATION VIN = 12V
0.06 4.0 20 IN REGULATION

INPUT CURRENT (µA)

INPUT CURRENT (µA)

0.04 3.5
CHANGE IN VOUT (%)

0.02 3.0 15
0 2.5
–0.02 2.0 10
–0.04 1.5
–0.06 1.0 5
–0.08 0.5
–0.10 0 0
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 –55 –25 5 35 65 95 125 155
INPUT VOLTAGE (V) INPUT VOLTAGE (V) TEMPERATURE (°C)
8614 G10 8614 G11 8614 G12

Top FET Current Limit vs Duty Cycle Top FET Current Limit Bottom FET Current Limit
9.0 9.5 7.5

8.5 9.0 7.0

8.5 6.5

CURRENT LIMIT (A)

CURRENT LIMIT (A)

CURRENT LIMIT (A)

8.0
5% DC
8.0 6.0
7.5
7.5 5.5
7.0
7.0 5.0

6.5 6.5 4.5

6.0 6.0 4.0

0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150
DUTY CYCLE TEMPERATURE (°C) TEMPERATURE (°C)
8614 G13 8614 G14 8614 G15

Switch Drop Switch Drop Minimum On-Time

200 500 40
SWITCH CURRENT = 1A ILOAD = 1A, VSYNC = 0V
450 38 ILOAD = 1A, VSYNC = 3V
175
ILOAD = 2A
400 36
150 ILOAD = 4A
MINIMUM ON-TIME (ns)

350 34
SWITCH DROP (mV)

SWITCH DROP (mV)

125 300 32
TOP SWITCH TOP SWITCH
100 250 30
200 28
75
150 26
50
BOTTOM SWITCH 100 24
25 BOTTOM SWITCH
50 22

0 0 20
–50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 0 1 2 3 4 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125
TEMPERATURE (°C) SWITCH CURRENT (A) TEMPERATURE (°C)
8614 G16 8614 G17 8614 G18

Rev. E

For more information www.analog.com 5

LT8614
TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS

Dropout Voltage Switching Frequency Burst Frequency

800 740 1200
RT = 60.4k FRONT PAGE APPLICATION
700 730 VIN = 12V
1000 VOUT = 5V

SWITCHING FREQUENCY (kHz)

SWITCHING FREQUENCY (kHz)

DROPOUT VOLTAGE (mV)

600 720
800
500 710

400 700 600

300 690
400
200 680
200
100 670

0 660 0
0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 0 50 100 150 200
LOAD CURRENT (A) TEMPERATURE (°C) LOAD CURRENT (mA)
8614 G19 8614 G20 8614 G21

Minimum Load to Full Frequency

(SYNC DC High) Frequency Foldback Soft-Start Tracking
100 800 1.2
FRONT PAGE APPLICATION VOUT = 3.3V
VOUT = 5V 700 VIN = 12V
fSW = 1MHz VSYNC = 0V 1.0
80
SWITCHING FREQUENCY (kHz)

600 RT = 60.4k
LOAD CURRENT (mA)

0.8
FB VOLTAGE (V)
60 500

400 0.6
40 300
0.4
200
20
0.2
100

0 0 0
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4
INPUT VOLTAGE (V) FB VOLTAGE (V) TR/SS VOLTAGE (V)
8614 G22 8614 G23 8614 G24

Soft-Start Current PG High Thresholds PG Low Thresholds

2.6 12.0 –7.0
VSS = 0.5V
–7.5
PG THRESHOLD OFFSET FROM VREF (%)

11.5
PG THRESHOLD OFFSET FROM VREF (%)

2.5
11.0 –8.0
2.4
SS PIN CURRENT (µA)

10.5 –8.5
FB RISING FB RISING
2.3 10.0 –9.0

2.2 9.5 –9.5

9.0 FB FALLING –10.0 FB FALLING
2.1
8.5 –10.5
2.0
8.0 –11.0
1.9 7.5 –11.5

1.8 7.0 –12.0

–50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150 –50 –25 0 25 50 75 100 125 150
TEMPERATURE (°C) TEMPERATURE (°C) TEMPERATURE (°C)
8614 G25 8614 G26 8614 G27

6 For more information www.analog.com

 LT8614
TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
RT Programmed Switching
Frequency VIN UVLO Bias Pin Current
250 3.6 6.0
VBIAS = 5V
225 VOUT = 5V
3.4 5.5 ILOAD = 1A
200
3.2 fSW = 700kHz

BIAS PIN CURRENT (mA)

RT PIN RESISTOR (kΩ)

175 5.0

INPUT VOLTAGE (V)

150 3.0
4.5
125 2.8
4.0
100 2.6
75 3.5
2.4
50
2.2 3.0
25
0 2.0 2.5
0.2 0.6 1 1.4 1.8 2.2 2.6 3 –55 –25 5 35 65 95 125 155 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
SWITCHING FREQUENCY (MHz) TEMPERATURE (°C) INPUT VOLTAGE (V)
8614 G27 8614 G29 8614 G30

Switching Waveforms, Full Switching Waveforms, Burst

Bias Pin Current Frequency Continuous Operation Mode Operation
14
VBIAS = 5V
VOUT = 5V VSW VSW
12 5V/DIV
VIN = 12V 5V/DIV
ILOAD = 1A
BIAS PIN CURRENT (mA)

10 IL IL
500mA/DIV 500mA/DIV
8
VOUT VOUT
5mV/DIV 10mV/DIV
6

500ns/DIV 8614 G32

5µs/DIV 8614 G33
4
FRONT PAGE APPLICATION FRONT PAGE APPLICATION
12VIN TO 5VOUT AT 1A 12VIN TO 5VOUT AT 10mA
2 VSYNC = 0V

0
0.2 0.6 1 1.4 1.8 2.2 2.6 3
SWITCHING FREQUENCY (MHz)
8614 G31

Transient Response; Load Current

Transient Response; Load Current Stepped from 100mA (Burst Mode
Switching Waveforms Stepped from 1A to 2A Operation) to 1.1A

IL
500mA/DIV ILOAD ILOAD
1A/DIV 1A/DIV

VSW VOUT VOUT

5V/DIV 100mV/DIV 200mV/DIV

200ns/DIV 8614 G34 50µs/DIV 8614 G35

50µs/DIV 8614 G36

FRONT PAGE APPLICATION FRONT PAGE APPLICATION FRONT PAGE APPLICATION

36VIN TO 5VOUT AT 1A 1A TO 2A TRANSIENT 100mA (Burst Mode OPERATION) TO
12VIN, 5VOUT 1.1A TRANSIENT
COUT = 47µF 12VIN, 5VOUT
COUT = 47µF

Rev. E

For more information www.analog.com 7

LT8614
TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
Start-Up Dropout Performance Start-Up Dropout Performance

VIN VIN
VIN VIN
2V/DIV 2V/DIV
VOUT VOUT
VOUT VOUT
2V/DIV 2V/DIV

100ms/DIV 8614 G37

100ms/DIV 8614 G38

2.5Ω LOAD 20Ω LOAD

(2A IN REGULATION) (250mA IN REGULATION)

Radiated EMI Performance (CISPR25 Radiated Emission Test with

Class 5 Peak Limits)
50
VERTICAL POLARIZATION

40
AMPLITUDE (dBµV/m)

30

20

10
LT8614
CLASS 5 PEAK
0
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000
FREQUENCY (MHz)
50
HORIZONTIAL POLARIZATION

40
AMPLITUDE (dBµV/m)

30

20

10
LT8614
CLASS 5 PEAK
0
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000
FREQUENCY (MHz)
DC2019A DEMO BOARD (WITH EMI FILTER INSTALLED) 8614 G39
14VIN TO 5VOUT AT 4A, fSW = 2MHz

8 For more information www.analog.com

 LT8614
PIN FUNCTIONS
BIAS (Pin 1): The internal regulator will draw current from GND2 (10, 11): Power Switch Ground. These pins are the
BIAS instead of VIN when BIAS is tied to a voltage higher return path of the internal bottom side power switch and
than 3.1V. For output voltages of 3.3V to 30V this pin must be tied together. Place the negative terminal of the
should be tied to VOUT. If this pin is tied to a supply other input capacitor as close to the GND2 pins as possible.
than VOUT use a 1µF local bypass capacitor on this pin. If Also be sure to tie GND2 to the ground plane. See the
no supply is available, tie to GND. Applications Information section for sample layout.
INTVCC (Pin 2): Internal 3.4V Regulator Bypass Pin. The VIN2 (Pin 13): The LT8614 requires two 1µF small input
internal power drivers and control circuits are powered bypass capacitors. One 1µF capacitor should be placed
from this voltage. INTVCC maximum output current is between VIN1 and GND1. A second 1µF capacitor should
20mA. Do not load the INTVCC pin with external circuitry. be placed between VIN2 and GND2. These capacitors
INTVCC current will be supplied from BIAS if BIAS > must be placed as close as possible to the LT8614. A
3.1V, otherwise current will be drawn from VIN. Voltage third larger capacitor of 2.2µF or more should be placed
on INTVCC will vary between 2.8V and 3.4V when BIAS close to the LT8614 with the positive terminal connected
is between 3.0V and 3.6V. Decouple this pin to power to VIN1 and VIN2, and the negative terminal connected
ground with at least a 1μF low ESR ceramic capacitor to ground. See the Applications Information section for
placed close to the IC. sample layout.
BST (Pin 3): This pin is used to provide a drive voltage, EN/UV (Pin 14): The LT8614 is shut down when this pin
higher than the input voltage, to the topside power switch. is low and active when this pin is high. The hysteretic
Place a 0.1µF boost capacitor as close as possible to the threshold voltage is 1.00V going up and 0.96V going
IC. down. Tie to VIN if the shutdown feature is not used. An
external resistor divider from VIN can be used to program
VIN1 (Pin 4): The LT8614 requires two 1µF small input
a VIN threshold below which the LT8614 will shut down.
bypass capacitors. One 1µF capacitor should be placed
between VIN1 and GND1. A second 1µF capacitor should RT (Pin 15): A resistor is tied between RT and ground to
be placed between VIN2 and GND2. These capacitors must set the switching frequency.
be placed as close as possible to the LT8614. A third
TR/SS (Pin 16): Output Tracking and Soft-Start Pin. This
larger capacitor of 2.2µF or more should be placed close pin allows user control of output voltage ramp rate during
to the LT8614 with the positive terminal connected to VIN1 start-up. A TR/SS voltage below 0.97V forces the LT8614
and VIN2, and the negative terminal connected to ground. to regulate the FB pin to equal the TR/SS pin voltage.
See applications section for sample layout. When TR/SS is above 0.97V, the tracking function is dis-
GND1 (6, 7): Power Switch Ground. These pins are the abled and the internal reference resumes control of the
return path of the internal bottom side power switch and error amplifier. An internal 2.2μA pull-up current from
must be tied together. Place the negative terminal of the INTVCC on this pin allows a capacitor to program output
input capacitor as close to the GND1 pins as possible. voltage slew rate. This pin is pulled to ground with an
Also be sure to tie GND1 to the ground plane. See the internal 230Ω MOSFET during shutdown and fault condi-
Applications Information section for sample layout. tions; use a series resistor if driving from a low impedance
output. This pin may be left floating if the tracking function
SW (Pins 8, 9): The SW pins are the outputs of the internal
is not needed.
power switches. Tie these pins together and connect them
to the inductor and boost capacitor. This node should be
kept small on the PCB for good performance and low EMI.

Rev. E

For more information www.analog.com 9

LT8614
PIN FUNCTIONS
SYNC/MODE (Pin 17): External Clock Synchronization FB (Pin 20): The LT8614 regulates the FB pin to 0.970V.
Input. Ground this pin for low ripple Burst Mode operation Connect the feedback resistor divider tap to this pin. Also,
at low output loads. Tie to a clock source for synchroniza- connect a phase lead capacitor between FB and VOUT.
tion to an external frequency. Apply a DC voltage of 3V or Typically, this capacitor is 4.7pF to 22pF.
higher or tie to INTVCC for pulse-skipping mode. When SW (Exposed Pad Pins 21, 22): The exposed pads should
in pulse-skipping mode, the IQ will increase to several to connected and soldered to the SW trace for good ther-
hundred µA. Do not float this pin. mal performance. If necessary due to manufacturing limi-
GND (Pins 18): LT8614 Ground Pin. Connect this pin to tations Pins 21 and 22 may be left disconnected, however
system ground and to the ground plane. thermal performance will be degraded.
PG (Pin 19): The PG pin is the open-drain output of an
internal comparator. PG remains low until the FB pin is
within ±9% of the final regulation voltage, and there are
no fault conditions. PG is valid when VIN is above 3.4V,
regardless of EN/UV pin state.

BLOCK DIAGRAM

VIN2
VIN1 13
VIN 4 CIN2
CIN3 CIN1 –
INTERNAL 0.97V REF
+ 3.4V BIAS
R3 1V + REG
1
OPT EN/UV
14 – SHDN
SLOPE COMP
R4 INTVCC
OPT 2
CVCC
OSCILLATOR
ERROR BST
PG 200kHz TO 3MHz 3
19 ±9% AMP

+ VC
BURST SWITCH M1
CBST
+ DETECT LOGIC L
VOUT – AND
SW
VOUT
ANTI- 8, 9, 21, 22
COUT
SHDN SHOOT
C1 R1 THROUGH M2
TSD
INTVCC UVLO
R2 FB VIN UVLO
20 GND1
CSS SHDN 6, 7
2.2µA TSD
OPT VIN UVLO
TR/SS GND2
16
10, 11
RT RT
15
SYNC/MODE
17
GND
18 8614 BD

10 For more information www.analog.com

 LT8614
OPERATION
The LT8614 is a monolithic, constant frequency, current from the input supply when regulating with no load. The
mode step-down DC/DC converter. An oscillator, with SYNC pin is tied low to use Burst Mode operation and can
frequency set using a resistor on the RT pin, turns on be tied to a logic high to use pulse-skipping mode. If a
the internal top power switch at the beginning of each clock is applied to the SYNC pin the part will synchronize
clock cycle. Current in the inductor then increases until to an external clock frequency and operate in pulse-skip-
the top switch current comparator trips and turns off the ping mode. While in pulse-skipping mode the oscillator
top power switch. The peak inductor current at which the operates continuously and positive SW transitions are
top switch turns off is controlled by the voltage on the aligned to the clock. During light loads, switch pulses are
internal VC node. The error amplifier servos the VC node skipped to regulate the output and the quiescent current
by comparing the voltage on the VFB pin with an inter- will be several hundred µA.
nal 0.97V reference. When the load current increases it
To improve efficiency across all loads, supply current to
causes a reduction in the feedback voltage relative to the
internal circuitry can be sourced from the BIAS pin when
reference leading the error amplifier to raise the VC volt- biased at 3.3V or above. Else, the internal circuitry will
age until the average inductor current matches the new draw current from VIN. The BIAS pin should be connected
load current. When the top power switch turns off, the to VOUT if the LT8614 output is programmed at 3.3V or
synchronous power switch turns on until the next clock above.
cycle begins or inductor current falls to zero. If overload
conditions result in more than 6.9A flowing through the Comparators monitoring the FB pin voltage will pull the PG
bottom switch, the next clock cycle will be delayed until pin low if the output voltage varies more than ±9% (typi-
switch current returns to a safe level. cal) from the set point, or if a fault condition is present.
If the EN/UV pin is low, the LT8614 is shut down and The oscillator reduces the LT8614’s operating frequency
draws 1µA from the input. When the EN/UV pin is above when the voltage at the FB pin is low. This frequency
1V, the switching regulator will become active. foldback helps to control the inductor current when the
output voltage is lower than the programmed value which
To optimize efficiency at light loads, the LT8614 operates occurs during start-up or overcurrent conditions. When
in Burst Mode operation in light load situations. Between a clock is applied to the SYNC pin or the SYNC pin is
bursts, all circuitry associated with controlling the output held DC high, the frequency foldback is disabled and the
switch is shut down, reducing the input supply current to switching frequency will slow down only during overcur-
1.7μA. In a typical application, 2.5μA will be consumed rent conditions.

Rev. E

For more information www.analog.com 11

LT8614
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Low EMI PCB Layout Note that large, switched currents flow in the LT8614
VIN1, VIN2, GND1, and GND2 pins and the input capacitors
The LT8614 is specifically designed to minimize EMI
(CIN1, CIN2). The loops formed by the input capacitors
emissions and also to maximize efficiency when switching
should be as small as possible by placing the capacitors
at high frequencies. For optimal performance the LT8614
requires the use of multiple VIN bypass capacitors. adjacent to the VIN1/2 and GND1/2 pins. Capacitors with
small case size such as 0603 are optimal due to lowest
Two small 1µF capacitors should be placed as close as parasitic inductance.
possible to the LT8614: One capacitor should be tied to
The input capacitors, along with the inductor and out-
VIN1/GND1; a second capacitor should be tied to VIN2/
put capacitors, should be placed on the same side of the
GND2. A third capacitor with a larger value, 2.2µF or
higher, should be placed near VIN1 or VIN2. circuit board, and their connections should be made on
that layer. Place a local, unbroken ground plane under the
See Figure 1 for a recommended PCB layout. application circuit on the layer closest to the surface layer.
For more detail and PCB design files refer to the Demo The SW and BOOST nodes should be as small as possible.
Board guide for the LT8614. Finally, keep the FB and RT nodes small so that the ground

GROUND PLANE
ON LAYER 2
R1 C1 RPG

CSS
R2 V
CVCC V V
1 16 V RT
20 17

22 V
21
6 11
CIN1 7 10 CIN2

CIN3
CBST

L COUT

9614 F01
GROUND VIA VIN VIA VOUT VIA V OTHER SIGNAL VIAS

Figure 1. Recommended PCB Layout for the LT8614

12 For more information www.analog.com

 LT8614
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
traces will shield them from the SW and BOOST nodes. While in Burst Mode operation the current limit of the
The exposed pad on the bottom of the package should top switch is approximately 600mA resulting in output
be soldered to SW to reduce thermal resistance to ambi- voltage ripple shown in Figure 3. Increasing the output
ent. To keep thermal resistance low, extend the ground capacitance will decrease the output ripple proportionally.
plane from GND1 and GND2 as much as possible, and As load ramps upward from zero the switching frequency
add thermal vias to additional ground planes within the will increase but only up to the switching frequency
circuit board and on the bottom side. programmed by the resistor at the RT pin as shown in
Figure 2a. The output load at which the LT8614 reaches
Achieving Ultralow Quiescent Current the programmed frequency varies based on input voltage,
To enhance efficiency at light loads, the LT8614 oper- output voltage, and inductor choice.
ates in low ripple Burst Mode operation, which keeps the
output capacitor charged to the desired output voltage Burst Frequency
while minimizing the input quiescent current and mini- 1200
FRONT PAGE APPLICATION
mizing output voltage ripple. In Burst Mode operation the VIN = 12V
1000 VOUT = 5V

SWITCHING FREQUENCY (kHz)

LT8614 delivers single small pulses of current to the out-
put capacitor followed by sleep periods where the output 800

power is supplied by the output capacitor. While in sleep 600

mode the LT8614 consumes 1.7μA.
400
As the output load decreases, the frequency of single cur-
rent pulses decreases (see Figure 2a) and the percentage 200
of time the LT8614 is in sleep mode increases, result-
0
ing in much higher light load efficiency than for typical 0 50 100 150 200
converters. By maximizing the time between pulses, the LOAD CURRENT (mA)

converter quiescent current approaches 2.5µA for a typi- (2a)

8614 F02a

cal application when there is no output load. Therefore,

to optimize the quiescent current performance at light Minimum Load to Full Frequency (SYNC DC High)
loads, the current in the feedback resistor divider must
100
be minimized as it appears to the output as load current. FRONT PAGE APPLICATION
VOUT = 5V
In order to achieve higher light load efficiency, more energy 80 fSW = 1MHz

must be delivered to the output during the single small

LOAD CURRENT (mA)

60
pulses in Burst Mode operation such that the LT8614 can
stay in sleep mode longer between each pulse. This can be
achieved by using a larger value inductor (i.e., 4.7µH), and 40

should be considered independent of switching frequency

when choosing an inductor. For example, while a lower 20

inductor value would typically be used for a high switch-

0
ing frequency application, if high light load efficiency is 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45
desired, a higher inductor value should be chosen. See INPUT VOLTAGE (V)

curve in Typical Performance Characteristics.

8614 F02b
(2b)
Figure 2. SW Frequency vs Load Information in Burst
Mode Operation (2a) and Pulse-Skipping Mode (2b)

Rev. E

For more information www.analog.com 13

LT8614
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
If low input quiescent current and good light-load effi-
VSW ciency are desired, use large resistor values for the FB
5V/DIV
resistor divider. The current flowing in the divider acts as
IL
500mA/DIV
a load current, and will increase the no-load input current
VOUT to the converter, which is approximately:
10mV/DIV
⎛ V ⎞ ⎛ V ⎞ ⎛ 1⎞
5µs/DIV 8614 F03
IQ = 1.7µA + ⎜ OUT ⎟ ⎜ OUT ⎟ ⎜ ⎟ (2)
FRONT PAGE APPLICATION ⎝ R1+R2 ⎠ ⎝ VIN ⎠ ⎝ n ⎠
12VIN TO 5VOUT AT 10mA
VSYNC = 0V
where 1.7µA is the quiescent current of the LT8614 and
Figure 3. Burst Mode Operation the second term is the current in the feedback divider
reflected to the input of the buck operating at its light
For some applications it is desirable for the LT8614 to load efficiency n. For a 3.3V application with R1 = 1M and
operate in pulse-skipping mode, offering two major differ- R2 = 412k, the feedback divider draws 2.3µA. With VIN =
ences from Burst Mode operation. First is the clock stays 12V and n = 80%, this adds 0.8µA to the 1.7µA quiescent
awake at all times and all switching cycles are aligned to current resulting in 2.5µA no-load current from the 12V
the clock. In this mode much of the internal circuitry is supply. Note that this equation implies that the no-load
awake at all times, increasing quiescent current to several current is a function of VIN; this is plotted in the Typical
hundred µA. Second is that full switching frequency is Performance Characteristics section.
reached at lower output load than in Burst Mode operation When using large FB resistors, a 4.7pF to 22pF phase-lead
(see Figure 2b). To enable pulse-skipping mode, the SYNC capacitor should be connected from VOUT to FB.
pin is tied high either to a logic output or to the INTVCC
pin. When a clock is applied to the SYNC pin the LT8614 Setting the Switching Frequency
will also operate in pulse-skipping mode.
The LT8614 uses a constant frequency PWM architecture
FB Resistor Network that can be programmed to switch from 200kHz to 3MHz
by using a resistor tied from the RT pin to ground. A table
The output voltage is programmed with a resistor divider showing the necessary RT value for a desired switching
between the output and the FB pin. Choose the resistor frequency is in Table 1.
values according to:
The RT resistor required for a desired switching frequency
⎛ V ⎞ (1) can be calculated using:
R1= R2 ⎜ OUT – 1⎟
⎝ 0.970V ⎠
46.5
Reference designators refer to the Block Diagram. 1% RT = – 5.2 (3)
fSW
resistors are recommended to maintain output voltage
accuracy. where RT is in kΩ and fSW is the desired switching fre-
quency in MHz.

14 For more information www.analog.com

 LT8614
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Table 1. SW Frequency vs RT Value For transient operation, VIN may go as high as the abso-
fSW (MHz) RT (kΩ) lute maximum rating of 42V regardless of the RT value,
0.2 232 however the LT8614 will reduce switching frequency
0.3 150 as necessary to maintain control of inductor current to
0.4 110 assure safe operation.
0.5 88.7 The LT8614 is capable of a maximum duty cycle of greater
0.6 71.5 than 99%, and the VIN-to-VOUT dropout is limited by the
0.7 60.4 RDS(ON) of the top switch. In this mode the LT8614 skips
0.8 52.3 switch cycles, resulting in a lower switching frequency
1.0 41.2 than programmed by RT.
1.2 33.2
For applications that cannot allow deviation from the pro-
1.4 28.0
grammed switching frequency at low VIN/VOUT ratios use
1.6 23.7
the following formula to set switching frequency:
1.8 20.5
VOUT + VSW(BOT)
2.0 18.2
VIN(MIN) = – VSW(BOT) + VSW(TOP) (5)
2.2 15.8 1– fSW • tOFF(MIN)
3.0 10.7
where VIN(MIN) is the minimum input voltage without
Operating Frequency Selection and Trade-Offs skipped cycles, VOUT is the output voltage, VSW(TOP) and
VSW(BOT) are the internal switch drops (~0.45V, ~0.15V,
Selection of the operating frequency is a trade-off between respectively at maximum load), fSW is the switching fre-
efficiency, component size, and input voltage range. The quency (set by RT), and tOFF(MIN) is the minimum switch
advantage of high frequency operation is that smaller off-time. Note that higher switching frequency will
inductor and capacitor values may be used. The disad- increase the minimum input voltage below which cycles
vantages are lower efficiency and a smaller input voltage will be dropped to achieve higher duty cycle.
range.
The highest switching frequency (fSW(MAX)) for a given Inductor Selection and Maximum Output Current
application can be calculated as follows: The LT8614 is designed to minimize solution size by
VOUT + VSW(BOT) allowing the inductor to be chosen based on the output
fSW(MAX) = (4)
(
tON(MIN) VIN – VSW(TOP) + VSW(BOT) ) load requirements of the application. During overload or
short-circuit conditions the LT8614 safely tolerates opera-
tion with a saturated inductor through the use of a high
where VIN is the typical input voltage, VOUT is the output
speed peak-current mode architecture.
voltage, VSW(TOP) and VSW(BOT) are the internal switch
drops (~0.45V, ~0.15V, respectively at maximum load) A good first choice for the inductor value is:
and tON(MIN) is the minimum top switch on-time (see the VOUT + VSW(BOT)
Electrical Characteristics). This equation shows that a L= (6)
slower switching frequency is necessary to accommodate fSW
a high VIN/VOUT ratio. where fSW is the switching frequency in MHz, VOUT is
the output voltage, VSW(BOT) is the bottom switch drop
(~0.15V) and L is the inductor value in μH.

Rev. E

For more information www.analog.com 15

LT8614
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
To avoid overheating and poor efficiency, an inductor must sufficient maximum output current (IOUT(MAX)) given the
be chosen with an RMS current rating that is greater than switching frequency, and maximum input voltage used in
the maximum expected output load of the application. the desired application.
In addition, the saturation current (typically labeled ISAT) In order to achieve higher light load efficiency, more energy
rating of the inductor must be higher than the load current must be delivered to the output during the single small
plus 1/2 of in inductor ripple current: pulses in Burst Mode operation such that the LT8614 can
1 stay in sleep mode longer between each pulse. This can be
IL(PEAK) =ILOAD(MAX) + ΔIL (7)
2 achieved by using a larger value inductor (i.e., 4.7µH), and
should be considered independent of switching frequency
where ∆IL is the inductor ripple current as calculated in when choosing an inductor. For example, while a lower
Equation 9 and ILOAD(MAX) is the maximum output load inductor value would typically be used for a high switch-
for a given application. ing frequency application, if high light load efficiency is
As a quick example, an application requiring 1A output desired, a higher inductor value should be chosen. See
should use an inductor with an RMS rating of greater than curve in Typical Performance Characteristics.
1A and an ISAT of greater than 1.3A. During long duration The optimum inductor for a given application may differ
overload or short-circuit conditions, the inductor RMS from the one indicated by this design guide. A larger value
rating requirement is greater to avoid overheating of the inductor provides a higher maximum load current and
inductor. To keep the efficiency high, the series resistance reduces the output voltage ripple. For applications requir-
(DCR) should be less than 0.04Ω, and the core material ing smaller load currents, the value of the inductor may
should be intended for high frequency applications. be lower and the LT8614 may operate with higher ripple
The LT8614 limits the peak switch current in order to current. This allows use of a physically smaller inductor,
protect the switches and the system from overload faults. or one with a lower DCR resulting in higher efficiency. Be
The top switch current limit (ILIM) is at least 8.5A at low aware that low inductance may result in discontinuous
duty cycles and decreases linearly to 7.2A at DC = 0.8. mode operation, which further reduces maximum load
The inductor value must then be sufficient to supply the current.
desired maximum output current (IOUT(MAX)), which is a For more information about maximum output current
function of the switch current limit (ILIM) and the ripple and discontinuous operation, see Linear Technology’s
current. Application Note 44.
ΔIL Finally, for duty cycles greater than 50% (VOUT/VIN > 0.5),
IOUT(MAX) =ILIM – (8)
2 a minimum inductance is required to avoid sub-harmonic
oscillation. See Application Note 19.
The peak-to-peak ripple current in the inductor can be
calculated as follows: Input Capacitors
VOUT ⎛ V ⎞ The VIN of the LT8614 should be bypassed with at least
ΔIL = • ⎜ 1– OUT ⎟ (9)
L • fSW ⎝ VIN(MAX) ⎠ three ceramic capacitors for best performance. Two small
ceramic capacitors of 1µF should be placed close to the
where fSW is the switching frequency of the LT8614, and part; one at the VIN1/GND1 pins and a second at VIN2/
L is the value of the inductor. Therefore, the maximum GND2 pins. These capacitors should be 0402 or 0603 in
output current that the LT8614 will deliver depends on size. For automotive applications requiring 2 series input
the switch current limit, the inductor value, and the input capacitors, two small 0402 or 0603 may be placed at
and output voltages. The inductor value may have to be each side of the LT8614 near the VIN1/GND1 and VIN2/
increased if the inductor ripple current does not allow GND2 pins.

16 For more information www.analog.com

 LT8614
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
A third, larger ceramic capacitor of 2.2µF or larger should bias and temperature. A physically larger capacitor or one
be placed close to VIN1 or VIN2. See layout section for with a higher voltage rating may be required.
more detail. X7R or X5R capacitors are recommended for
best performance across temperature and input voltage Ceramic Capacitors
variations. Ceramic capacitors are small, robust and have very low
Note that larger input capacitance is required when a lower ESR. However, ceramic capacitors can cause problems
switching frequency is used. If the input power source has when used with the LT8614 due to their piezoelectric
high impedance, or there is significant inductance due to nature. When in Burst Mode operation, the LT8614’s
long wires or cables, additional bulk capacitance may be switching frequency depends on the load current, and
necessary. This can be provided with a low performance at very light loads the LT8614 can excite the ceramic
electrolytic capacitor. capacitor at audio frequencies, generating audible noise.
Since the LT8614 operates at a lower current limit during
A ceramic input capacitor combined with trace or cable Burst Mode operation, the noise is typically very quiet to a
inductance forms a high quality (under damped) tank cir- casual ear. If this is unacceptable, use a high performance
cuit. If the LT8614 circuit is plugged into a live supply, the tantalum or electrolytic capacitor at the output. Low noise
input voltage can ring to twice its nominal value, possibly ceramic capacitors are also available.
exceeding the LT8614’s voltage rating. This situation is
easily avoided (see Application Note 88). A final precaution regarding ceramic capacitors concerns
the maximum input voltage rating of the LT8614. As
Output Capacitor and Output Ripple previously mentioned, a ceramic input capacitor com-
bined with trace or cable inductance forms a high qual-
The output capacitor has two essential functions. Along
ity (underdamped) tank circuit. If the LT8614 circuit is
with the inductor, it filters the square wave generated
plugged into a live supply, the input voltage can ring to
by the LT8614 to produce the DC output. In this role it
twice its nominal value, possibly exceeding the LT8614’s
determines the output ripple, thus low impedance at the
rating. This situation is easily avoided (see Application
switching frequency is important. The second function is
Note 88).
to store energy in order to satisfy transient loads and sta-
bilize the LT8614’s control loop. Ceramic capacitors have
Enable Pin
very low equivalent series resistance (ESR) and provide
the best ripple performance. For good starting values, see The LT8614 is in shutdown when the EN pin is low and
the Typical Applications section. active when the pin is high. The rising threshold of the EN
comparator is 1.0V, with 40mV of hysteresis. The EN pin
Use X5R or X7R types. This choice will provide low out- can be tied to VIN if the shutdown feature is not used, or
put ripple and good transient response. Transient perfor- tied to a logic level if shutdown control is required.
mance can be improved with a higher value output capaci-
tor and the addition of a feedforward capacitor placed Adding a resistor divider from VIN to EN programs the
between VOUT and FB. Increasing the output capacitance LT8614 to regulate the output only when VIN is above a
will also decrease the output voltage ripple. A lower value desired voltage (see the Block Diagram). Typically, this
of output capacitor can be used to save space and cost threshold, VIN(EN), is used in situations where the input
but transient performance will suffer and may cause loop supply is current limited, or has a relatively high source
instability. See the Typical Applications in this data sheet resistance. A switching regulator draws constant power
for suggested capacitor values. from the source, so source current increases as source
voltage drops. This looks like a negative resistance load
When choosing a capacitor, special attention should be to the source and can cause the source to current limit or
given to the data sheet to calculate the effective capaci- latch low under low source voltage conditions. The VIN(EN)
tance under the relevant operating conditions of voltage threshold prevents the regulator from operating at source
Rev. E

For more information www.analog.com 17

LT8614
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
voltages where the problems might occur. This threshold TR/SS pin voltage. For output tracking applications, TR/
can be adjusted by setting the values R3 and R4 such that SS can be externally driven by another voltage source.
they satisfy the following equation: From 0V to 0.97V, the TR/SS voltage will override the
internal 0.97V reference input to the error amplifier, thus
⎛ R3 ⎞ (10)
VIN(EN) = ⎜ +1⎟ •1.0V regulating the FB pin voltage to that of TR/SS pin. When
⎝ R4 ⎠ TR/SS is above 0.97V, tracking is disabled and the feed-

back voltage will regulate to the internal reference voltage.
where the LT8614 will remain off until VIN is above VIN(EN).
The TR/SS pin may be left floating if the function is not
Due to the comparator’s hysteresis, switching will not
needed.
stop until the input falls slightly below VIN(EN).
An active pull-down circuit is connected to the TR/SS pin
When operating in Burst Mode operation for light load
which will discharge the external soft-start capacitor in
currents, the current through the VIN(EN) resistor network
the case of fault conditions and restart the ramp when the
can easily be greater than the supply current consumed
faults are cleared. Fault conditions that clear the soft-start
by the LT8614. Therefore, the VIN(EN) resistors should be
capacitor are the EN/UV pin transitioning low, VIN voltage
large to minimize their effect on efficiency at low loads.
falling too low, or thermal shutdown.
INTVCC Regulator
Output Power Good
An internal low dropout (LDO) regulator produces the
When the LT8614’s output voltage is within the ±9% win-
3.4V supply from VIN that powers the drivers and the
dow of the regulation point, which is a VFB voltage in the
internal bias circuitry. The INTVCC can supply enough cur-
range of 0.883V to 1.057V (typical), the output voltage
rent for the LT8614’s circuitry and must be bypassed to
is considered good and the open-drain PG pin goes high
ground with a minimum of 1μF ceramic capacitor. Good
impedance and is typically pulled high with an external
bypassing is necessary to supply the high transient cur-
resistor. Otherwise, the internal pull-down device will pull
rents required by the power MOSFET gate drivers. To
the PG pin low. To prevent glitching both the upper and
improve efficiency the internal LDO can also draw cur-
lower thresholds include 1.2% of hysteresis.
rent from the BIAS pin when the BIAS pin is at 3.1V or
higher. Typically the BIAS pin can be tied to the output of The PG pin is also actively pulled low during several fault
the LT8614, or can be tied to an external supply of 3.3V or conditions: EN/UV pin is below 1V, INTVCC has fallen too
above. If BIAS is connected to a supply other than VOUT, low, VIN is too low, or thermal shutdown.
be sure to bypass with a local ceramic capacitor. If the
BIAS pin is below 3.0V, the internal LDO will consume Synchronization
current from VIN. Applications with high input voltage and To select low ripple Burst Mode operation, tie the SYNC
high switching frequency where the internal LDO pulls pin below 0.4V (this can be ground or a logic low out-
current from VIN will increase die temperature because put). To synchronize the LT8614 oscillator to an external
of the higher power dissipation across the LDO. Do not frequency connect a square wave (with 20% to 80% duty
connect an external load to the INTVCC pin. cycle) to the SYNC pin. The square wave amplitude should
have valleys that are below 0.4V and peaks above 2.4V
Output Voltage Tracking and Soft-Start (up to 6V).
The LT8614 allows the user to program its output voltage The LT8614 will not enter Burst Mode operation at low
ramp rate by means of the TR/SS pin. An internal 2.2μA output loads while synchronized to an external clock, but
pulls up the TR/SS pin to INTVCC. Putting an external instead will pulse skip to maintain regulation. The LT8614
capacitor on TR/SS enables soft starting the output to may be synchronized over a 200kHz to 3MHz range. The
prevent current surge on the input supply. During the soft- RT resistor should be chosen to set the LT8614 switching
start ramp the output voltage will proportionally track the frequency equal to or below the lowest synchronization

18 For more information www.analog.com

 LT8614
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
input. For example, if the synchronization signal will be There is another situation to consider in systems where
500kHz and higher, the RT should be selected for 500kHz. the output will be held high when the input to the LT8614
The slope compensation is set by the RT value, while the is absent. This may occur in battery charging applica-
minimum slope compensation required to avoid subhar- tions or in battery-backup systems where a battery or
monic oscillations is established by the inductor size, some other supply is diode ORed with the LT8614’s out-
input voltage, and output voltage. Since the synchroniza- put. If the VIN pin is allowed to float and the EN pin is
tion frequency will not change the slopes of the inductor held high (either by a logic signal or because it is tied
current waveform, if the inductor is large enough to avoid to VIN), then the LT8614’s internal circuitry will pull its
subharmonic oscillations at the frequency set by RT, then quiescent current through its SW pin. This is accept-
the slope compensation will be sufficient for all synchro- able if the system can tolerate several μA in this state.
nization frequencies. If the EN pin is grounded the SW pin current will drop
to near 1µA. However, if the VIN pin is grounded while
For some applications it is desirable for the LT8614 to
the output is held high, regardless of EN, parasitic body
operate in pulse-skipping mode, offering two major dif-
diodes inside the LT8614 can pull current from the output
ferences from Burst Mode operation. First is the clock
through the SW pin and the VIN pin, which may dam-
stays awake at all times and all switching cycles are
age the IC. Figure 4 shows a connection of the VIN and
aligned to the clock. Second is that full switching fre-
quency is reached at lower output load than in Burst Mode EN/UV pins that will allow the LT8614 to run only when
the input voltage is present and that protects against a
operation. These two differences come at the expense
shorted or reversed input.
of increased quiescent current. To enable pulse-skipping
mode, the SYNC pin is tied high either to a logic output D1
VIN VIN
or to the INTVCC pin. LT8614

The LT8614 does not operate in forced continuous mode EN/UV

GND
regardless of SYNC signal. Never leave the SYNC pin 8614 F04

floating.

Shorted and Reversed Input Protection Figure 4. Reverse VIN Protection

The LT8614 will tolerate a shorted output. Several features High Temperature Considerations
are used for protection during output short-circuit and
For higher ambient temperatures, care should be taken in
brownout conditions. The first is the switching frequency
the layout of the PCB to ensure good heat sinking of the
will be folded back while the output is lower than the set
LT8614. The ground pins on the bottom of the package
point to maintain inductor current control. Second, the
should be soldered to a ground plane. This ground should
bottom switch current is monitored such that if inductor
be tied to large copper layers below with thermal vias;
current is beyond safe levels switching of the top switch
these layers will spread heat dissipated by the LT8614.
will be delayed until such time as the inductor current
Placing additional vias can reduce thermal resistance fur-
falls to safe levels.
ther. The maximum load current should be derated as the
Frequency foldback behavior depends on the state of ambient temperature approaches the maximum junction
the SYNC pin: If the SYNC pin is low the switching fre- rating. Power dissipation within the LT8614 can be esti-
quency will slow while the output voltage is lower than mated by calculating the total power loss from an efficiency
the programmed level. If the SYNC pin is connected to measurement and subtracting the inductor loss. The die
a clock source or tied high, the LT8614 will stay at the temperature is calculated by multiplying the LT8614 power
programmed frequency without foldback and only slow dissipation by the thermal resistance from junction to
switching if the inductor current exceeds safe levels. ambient. The LT8614 will stop switching and indicate a
fault condition if safe junction temperature is exceeded.
Rev. E

For more information www.analog.com 19

LT8614
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
5V 4A Step-Down Converter

VIN
5.8V TO 42V
4.7µF EN/UV
VIN1 VIN2
1µF 1µF
0603 GND1 GND2 0603
LT8614
PG BST
0.1µF 4.7µH VOUT
10nF
SYNC/MODE SW 5V
TR/SS BIAS 4A
1µF 4.7pF 1M 47µF
INTVCC FB 1210
41.2k X5R/X7R
RT GND 243k

fSW = 1MHz 8614 TA08

L: IHLP2525CZ-01

3.3V, 4A Step-Down Converter

VIN
4.1V TO 42V
4.7µF EN/UV
VIN1 VIN2
1µF 1µF
0603 GND1 GND2 0603
LT8614
PG BST
0.1µF 4.7µH VOUT
10nF
SYNC/MODE SW 3.3V
TR/SS BIAS 4A
1µF 4.7pF 1M 47µF
INTVCC FB 1210
41.2k X5R/X7R
RT GND 412k

fSW = 1MHz 8614 TA05

L: IHLP2525CZ-01

Ultralow EMI 5V, 4A Step-Down Converter

FB1 L2
BEAD 0.22µH
VIN
5.8V TO 42V 4.7µF 4.7µF
10µF
1206 1210 1206 EN/UV
VIN1 VIN2
1µF 1µF
0603 GND1 GND2 0603
LT8614
PG BST
0.1µF 2.2µH VOUT
10nF
SYNC/MODE SW 5V
TR/SS BIAS 4A
1µF 4.7pF 1M 47µF
INTVCC FB 1210
18.2k X5R/X7R
RT GND 243k

fSW = 2MHz 8614 TA02

FB1 BEAD: MPZ2012S300A
L: IHLP2525CZ-01
L2: IHLP1616AB-01

20 For more information www.analog.com

 LT8614
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
2MHz 5V, 4A Step-Down Converter

VIN
5.8V TO 42V
4.7µF EN/UV
VIN1 VIN2
1µF 1µF
0603 GND1 GND2 0603
LT8614
PG BST
0.1µF 2.2µH VOUT
10nF
SYNC/MODE SW 5V
TR/SS BIAS 4A
1µF 4.7pF 1M 47µF
INTVCC FB 1210
18.2k X5R/X7R
RT GND 243k

fSW = 2MHz 8614 TA03

L: IHLP2525CZ-01

2MHz 3.3V, 4A Step-Down Converter

VIN
4.1V TO 42V
4.7µF EN/UV
VIN1 VIN2
1µF 1µF
0603 GND1 GND2 0603
LT8614
PG BST
0.1µF 1.5µH VOUT
10nF
SYNC/MODE SW 3.3V
TR/SS BIAS 4A
1µF 4.7pF 1M 47µF
INTVCC FB 1210
18.2k X5R/X7R
RT GND 412k

fSW = 2MHz 8614 TA06

L: IHLP2020CZ-01

Rev. E

For more information www.analog.com 21

LT8614
PACKAGE DESCRIPTION
UDC Package
Variation: UDC20(18)
20(18)-LeadUDC Package
Plastic QFN (3mm × 4mm)
(Reference LTC DWGUDC20(18)
Variation: # 05-08-1956 Rev C)
20(18)-Lead Plastic QFN (3mm × 4mm)
(Reference LTC DWG
Exposed Pad#Variation
05-08-1956
AARev C)
Exposed Pad Variation AA

0.055 BSC

0.70 ±0.05

3.50 ±0.05
0.770
2.10 ±0.05 BSC
1.50 REF 0.220 ±0.05
0.356 ±0.05
0.400 ±0.05

PACKAGE OUTLINE

0.25 ±0.05
0.50 BSC
2.50 REF
3.10 ±0.05
4.50 ±0.05
RECOMMENDED SOLDER PAD PITCH AND DIMENSIONS
APPLY SOLDER MASK TO AREAS THAT ARE NOT SOLDERED
PIN 1 ID
0.75 ±0.05 0.12 × 45°
3.00 ±0.10 1.50 REF

0.40 ±0.10

PIN 1 1
2.127 ±0.10
TOP MARK 0.220 ±0.05 2
(NOTE 5)

4.00 ±0.10 2.50 REF

0.356 ±0.05
0.770
BSC
0.400 ±0.05

(UDC20(18)) QFN 1116 REV C

0.200 REF 0.25 ±0.05

R = 0.110
0.00 – 0.05 TYP 0.50 BSC
BOTTOM VIEW—EXPOSED PAD

NOTE:
1. DRAWING IS NOT A JEDEC PACKAGE OUTLINE
2. DRAWING NOT TO SCALE
3. ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN MILLIMETERS
4. DIMENSIONS OF EXPOSED PAD ON BOTTOM OF PACKAGE DO NOT INCLUDE
MOLD FLASH. MOLD FLASH, IF PRESENT, SHALL NOT EXCEED 0.15mm ON ANY SIDE
5. SHADED AREA IS ONLY A REFERENCE FOR PIN 1 LOCATION
ON THE TOP AND BOTTOM OF PACKAGE

22 For more information www.analog.com

 LT8614
REVISION HISTORY
REV DATE DESCRIPTION PAGE NUMBER
A 03/14 Clarified package description. 2
Clarified Applications Information. 13
Clarified applications components. 20, 21, 24
Clarified rev of package drawing. 22
Clarified Related Parts list. 24
B 05/15 Added H- Grade version 2, 3
C 08/16 Clarified Order Information 2
Clarified Minimum On-Time Condition 3
Clarified RT Programming Switching Frequency Graph 7
Clarified Bias Pin Description 9
Clarified Components on Typical Applications 20, 21
D 06/17 Clarified the Features section. 1
Added MP Grade. 2
Added MP Grade (Notes 2 and 3). 3
Clarified the Operating Frequency Selection and Trade-Offs section. 15
Clarified components in the Typical Applications section. 24
E 09/19 Removed EMC word where applicable all
Obsoleted LT8614MP Page 2 (highlighted in gray) 2
Clarified application condition where Shorted & Reversed 19
Updated Links to analog.com all
Clarified Components on Typical Applications 24

Rev. E

Information furnished by Analog Devices is believed to be accurate and reliable. However, no responsibility is assumed by Analog
Devices for its use, nor for any infringements of patents or other rights of third parties that may result from its use. Specifications
subject to change without notice. No license For more by
is granted information www.analog.com
implication or otherwise under any patent or patent rights of Analog Devices. 23
LT8614
TYPICAL APPLICATIONS
12V, 4A Step-Down Converter
VIN
12.8V TO 42V
4.7µF EN/UV
VIN1 VIN2
1µF 1µF
0603 GND1 GND2 0603
LT8614
PG BST
0.1µF 8.2µH VOUT
10nF
SYNC/MODE SW 12V
TR/SS BIAS 4A
1µF 4.7pF 1M
47µF
INTVCC FB 1210
41.2k
RT GND 88.7k X5R/X7R

fSW = 1MHz 8614 TA04

L: IHLP2525CZ-01

2MHz 1.8V, 4A Step-Down Converter

VIN
3.4V TO 22V
(42V TRANSIENT) 4.7µF EN/UV
VIN1 VIN2
1µF 1µF
0603 GND1 GND2 0603
LT8614
PG BST
0.1µF 1µH VOUT
10nF
SYNC/MODE SW 1.8V
TR/SS BIAS EXTERNAL 4A
1µF SOURCE >3.1V 10pF 866k
OR GND 100µF
INTVCC FB 1210
18.2k
RT GND 1M X5R/X7R

fSW = 2MHz 8614 TA07

L: IHLP2020CZ-01

RELATED PARTS
PART NUMBER DESCRIPTION COMMENTS
LT8610 42V, 2.5A, 96% Efficiency, 2.2MHz Synchronous Micropower VIN: 3.4V to 42V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.97V, IQ = 2.5µA,
Step-Down DC/DC Converter with IQ = 2.5µA ISD < 1µA, MSOP-16E Package
LT8610A/LT8610AB 42V, 3.5A, 96% Efficiency, 2.2MHz Synchronous Micropower VIN: 3.4V to 42V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.97V, IQ = 2.5µA,
Step-Down DC/DC Converter with IQ = 2.5µA ISD < 1µA, MSOP-16E Package
LT8611 42V, 2.5A, 96% Efficiency, 2.2MHz Synchronous Micropower VIN: 3.4V to 42V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.97V, IQ = 2.5µA,
Step-Down DC/DC Converter with IQ = 2.5µA and Input/Output ISD < 1µA, 3mm × 5mm QFN-24 Package
Current Limit/Monitor
LT8612 42V, 6A, 96% Efficiency, 2.2MHz Synchronous Micropower VIN: 3.4V to 42V, VOUT(MIN) = 0.97V, IQ = 2.5µA,
Step-Down DC/DC Converter with IQ = 3µA ISD < 1µA, 3mm × 6mm QFN Package
LT3971 38V, 1.2A, 2.2MHz High Efficiency Micropower Step-Down DC/DC VIN: 4.2V to 38V, VOUT(MIN) = 1.21V, IQ = 2.8µA,
Converter with IQ = 2.8µA ISD < 1µA, 3mm × 3mm DFN-10 and MSOP-10E Packages
LT3991 55V, 1.2A, 2.2MHz High Efficiency Micropower Step-Down DC/DC VIN: 4.2V to 55V, VOUT(MIN) = 1.21V, IQ = 2.8µA,
Converter with IQ = 2.8µA ISD < 1µA, 3mm × 3mm DFN-10 and MSOP-10E Packages
LT3970 40V, 350mA, 2.2MHz High Efficiency Micropower Step-Down DC/DC VIN: 4.2V to 40V, VOUT(MIN) = 1.21V, IQ = 2.5µA,
Converter with IQ = 2.5µA ISD < 1µA, 3mm × 2mm DFN-10 and MSOP-10 Packages
LT3990 62V, 350mA, 2.2MHz High Efficiency MicroPower Step-Down DC/DC VIN: 4.2V to 62V, VOUT(MIN) = 1.21V, IQ = 2.5µA,
Converter with IQ = 2.5µA ISD < 1µA, 3mm × 3mm DFN-10 and MSOP-6E Packages

24
09/19
www.analog.com
For more information www.analog.com  ANALOG DEVICES, INC. 2013–2019