LTC1871
1
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TYPICAL APPLICATION
FEATURES
APPLICATIONS
DESCRIPTION
Wide Input Range, No RSENSE
Current Mode Boost,
Flyback and SEPIC Controller
The LTC
®
1871 is a wide input range, current mode, boost,
yback or SEPIC controller that drives an N-channel power
MOSFET and requires very few external components. In-
tended for low to medium power applications, it eliminates
the need for a current sense resistor by utilizing the power
MOSFETs on-resistance, thereby maximizing effi ciency.
The IC’s operating frequency can be set with an external
resistor over a 50kHz to 1MHz range, and can be syn-
chronized to an external clock using the MODE/SYNC
pin. Burst Mode operation at light loads, a low minimum
operating supply voltage of 2.5V and a low shutdown
quiescent current of 10µA make the LTC1871 ideally suited
for battery-operated systems.
For applications requiring constant frequency opera-
tion, Burst Mode operation can be defeated using the
MODE/SYNC pin. Higher output voltage boost, SEPIC
and fl yback applications are possible with the LTC1871
by connecting the SENSE pin to a resistor in the source
of the power MOSFET.
The LTC1871 is available in the 10-lead MSOP package.
Effi ciency of Figure 1
n High Effi ciency (No Sense Resistor Required)
n
Wide Input Voltage Range: 2.5V to 36V
n
Current Mode Control Provides Excellent
Transient Response
n
High Maximum Duty Cycle (92% Typ)
n
±2% RUN Pin Threshold with 100mV Hysteresis
n ±1% Internal Voltage Reference
n Micropower Shutdown: IQ = 10µA
n
Programmable Operating Frequency
(50kHz to 1MHz) with One External Resistor
n
Synchronizable to an External Clock Up to 1.3 × fOSC
n
User-Controlled Pulse Skip or Burst Mode
®
Operation
n
Internal 5.2V Low Dropout Voltage Regulator
n
Output Overvoltage Protection
n
Capable of Operating with a Sense Resistor for
High Output Voltage Applications
n Small 10-Lead MSOP Package
n Telecom Power Supplies
n Portable Electronic Equipment L, LT, LTC, LTM and Burst Mode are registered trademarks of Linear Technology Corporation.
No RSENSE is a trademark of Linear Technology Corporation. All other trademarks are the
property of their respective owners.
Figure 1. High Effi ciency 3.3V Input, 5V Output Boost Converter (Bootstrapped)
+
RUN
ITH
FB
FREQ
MODE/SYNC
SENSE
VIN
INTVCC
GATE
GND
LTC1871
RT
80.6k
1%
R2
37.4k
1%
R1
12.1k
1% CVCC
4.7µF
X5R
CIN
22µF
6.3V
×2
M1
D1
L1
1µH
RC
22k
CC1
6.8nF
CC2
47pF
COUT1
150µF
6.3V
×4
VIN
3.3V
VOUT
5V
7A
(10A PEAK)
GND
1871 F01a
+
COUT2
22µF
6.3V
X5R
×2
CIN: TAIYO YUDEN JMK325BJ226MM
COUT1: PANASONIC EEFUEOJ151R
COUT2: TAIYO YUDEN JMK325BJ226MM
D1: MBRB2515L
L1: SUMIDA CEP125-H 1R0MH
M1: FAIRCHILD FDS7760A OUTPUT CURRENT (A)
30
EFFICIENCY (%)
90
100
80
50
70
60
40
0.001 0.1 1 10
1871 F01b
0.01
Burst Mode
OPERATION
PULSE-SKIP
MODE
LTC1871
2
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PIN CONFIGURATION ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS
VIN Voltage ............................................... 0.3V to 36V
INTVCC Voltage ............................................ –0.3V to 7V
INTVCC Output Current .......................................... 50mA
GATE Voltage ............................ –0.3V to VINTVCC + 0.3V
ITH, FB Voltages ....................................... –0.3V to 2.7V
RUN, MODE/SYNC Voltages ....................... –0.3V to 7V
FREQ Voltage ............................................ –0.3V to 1.5V
SENSE Pin Voltage .................................... –0.3V to 36V
Operating Temperature Range (Note 2)
LTC1871E ............................................. –40°C to 85°C
LTC1871I............................................ –40°C to 125°C
LTC1871H .......................................... –40°C to 150°C
Junction Temperature (Note 3)
LTC1871E/LTC1871I ......................................... 125°C
LTC1871H ......................................................... 150°C
Storage Temperature Range ................... –65°C to 150°C
Lead Temperature (Soldering, 10 sec) .................. 300°C
(Note 1)
1
2
3
4
5
RUN
ITH
FB
FREQ
MODE/
SYNC
10
9
8
7
6
SENSE
VIN
INTVCC
GATE
GND
TOP VIEW
MS PACKAGE
10-LEAD PLASTIC MSOP
TJMAX = 125°C, θJA = 120°C/W
ORDER INFORMATION
LEAD FREE FINISH TAPE AND REEL PART MARKING PACKAGE DESCRIPTION TEMPERATURE RANGE
LTC1871EMS#PBF LTC1871EMS#TRPBF LTSX 10-Lead Plastic MSOP –40°C to 85°C
LTC1871IMS#PBF LTC1871IMS#TRPBF LTBFC 10-Lead Plastic MSOP –40°C to 125°C
LTC1871HMS#PBF LTC1871HMS#TRPBF LTCXS 10-Lead Plastic MSOP –40°C to 150°C
LEAD BASED FINISH TAPE AND REEL PART MARKING PACKAGE DESCRIPTION TEMPERATURE RANGE
LTC1871EMS LTC1871EMS#TR LTSX 10-Lead Plastic MSOP –40°C to 85°C
LTC1871IMS LTC1871IMS#TR LTBFC 10-Lead Plastic MSOP –40°C to 125°C
LTC1871HMS LTC1871HMS#TR LTCXS 10-Lead Plastic MSOP –40°C to 150°C
Consult LTC Marketing for parts specifi ed with wider operating temperature ranges.
For more information on lead free part marking, go to: http://www.linear.com/leadfree/
For more information on tape and reel specifi cations, go to: http://www.linear.com/tapeandreel/
LTC1871
3
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ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The l denotes the specifi cations which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifi cations are at TA = 25°C. VIN = VINTVCC = 5V, VRUN = 1.5V, RFREQ = 80k, VMODE/SYNC = 0V, unless
otherwise specifi ed.
SYMBOL PARAMETER CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
Main Control Loop
VIN(MIN) Minimum Input Voltage 2.5 V
I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2) 2.5 V
IQInput Voltage Supply Current (Note 4)
Continuous Mode VMODE/SYNC = 5V, VFB = 1.4V, VITH = 0.75V 550 1000 µA
VMODE/SYNC = 5V, VFB = 1.4V, VITH = 0.75V,
I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2)
550 1000 µA
Burst Mode Operation, No Load VMODE/SYNC = 0V, VITH = 0.2V (Note 5) 250 500 µA
VMODE/SYNC = 0V, VITH = 0.2V (Note 5),
I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2)
250 500 µA
Shutdown Mode VRUN = 0V 10 20 µA
VRUN = 0V, I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2) 10 20 µA
VRUN+Rising RUN Input Threshold Voltage 1.348 V
VRUNFalling RUN Input Threshold Voltage
1.223
1.198
1.248 1.273
1.298
V
V
H-Grade (Note 2) 1.179 1.315 V
VRUN(HYST) RUN Pin Input Threshold Hysteresis 50 100 150 mV
I-Grade (Note 2) 35 100 175 mV
H-Grade (Note 2) 35 300 mV
IRUN RUN Input Current 160nA
VFB Feedback Voltage VITH = 0.2V (Note 5)
1.218
1.212
1.230 1.242
1.248
V
V
VITH = 0.2V (Note 5), I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2) 1.205 1.255 V
IFB FB Pin Input Current VITH = 0.2V (Note 5) 18 60 nA
ΔVFB
ΔVIN
Line Regulation 2.5V ≤ VIN ≤ 30V 0.002 0.02 %/V
2.5V ≤ VIN ≤ 30V, I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2) 0.002 0.02 %/V
ΔVFB
ΔVITH
Load Regulation VMODE/SYNC = 0V, VITH = 0.5V to 0.9V (Note 5) 1 –0.1 %
VMODE/SYNC = 0V, VITH = 0.5V to 0.9V (Note 5)
I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2)
1 –0.1 %
ΔVFB(OV) ΔFB Pin, Overvoltage Lockout VFB(OV) – VFB(NOM) in Percent 2.5 6 10 %
gmError Amplifi er Transconductance ITH Pin Load = ±5µA (Note 5) 650 µmho
VITH(BURST) Burst Mode Operation ITH Pin Voltage Falling ITH Voltage (Note 5) 0.3 V
VSENSE(MAX) Maximum Current Sense Input Threshold Duty Cycle < 20% 120 150 180 mV
Duty Cycle < 20%, I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2) 100 200 mV
ISENSE(ON) SENSE Pin Current (GATE High) VSENSE = 0V 35 50 µA
ISENSE(OFF) SENSE Pin Current (GATE Low) VSENSE = 30V 0.1 5 µA
Oscillator
fOSC Oscillator Frequency RFREQ = 80k 250 300 350 kHz
RFREQ = 80k, I-Grade (Note 2) 250 300 350 kHz
RFREQ = 80k, H-Grade (Note 2) 240 300 360 kHz
Oscillator Frequency Range 50 1000 kHz
I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2) 50 1000 kHz
LTC1871
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ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
The l denotes the specifi cations which apply over the full operating
temperature range, otherwise specifi cations are at TA = 25°C. VIN = VINTVCC = 5V, VRUN = 1.5V, RFREQ = 80k, VMODE/SYNC = 0V, unless
otherwise specifi ed.
SYMBOL PARAMETER CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
DMAX Maximum Duty Cycle 87 92 97 %
I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2) 87 92 97 %
fSYNC/fOSC Recommended Maximum Synchronized
Frequency Ratio
fOSC = 300kHz (Note 6) 1.25 1.30
fOSC = 300kHz (Note 6), I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2) 1.25 1.30
tSYNC(MIN) MODE/SYNC Minimum Input Pulse Width VSYNC = 0V to 5V 25 ns
tSYNC(MAX) MODE/SYNC Maximum Input Pulse Width VSYNC = 0V to 5V 0.8/fOSC ns
VIL(MODE) Low Level MODE/SYNC Input Voltage 0.3 V
I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2) 0.3 V
VIH(MODE) High Level MODE/SYNC Input Voltage 1.2 V
I-Grade or H-Grade (Note 2) 1.2 V
RMODE/SYNC MODE/SYNC Input Pull-Down Resistance 50 k
VFREQ Nominal FREQ Pin Voltage 0.62 V
Low Dropout Regulator
VINTVCC INTVCC Regulator Output Voltage VIN = 7.5V 5.0 5.2 5.4 V
VIN = 7.5V, I-Grade (Note 2) 5.0 5.2 5.4 V
VIN = 7.5V, H-Grade (Note 2) 4.95 5.2 5.45 V
ΔVINTVCC
ΔVIN1
INTVCC Regulator Line Regulation 7.5V ≤ VIN ≤ 15V 8 25 mV
ΔVINTVCC
ΔVIN2
INTVCC Regulator Line Regulation 15V ≤ VIN ≤ 30V 70 200 mV
VLDO(LOAD) INTVCC Load Regulation 0 ≤ IINTVCC ≤ 20mA, VIN = 7.5V 2 –0.2 %
VDROPOUT INTVCC Regulator Dropout Voltage VIN = 5V, INTVCC Load = 20mA 280 mV
IINTVCC Bootstrap Mode INTVCC Supply
Current in Shutdown
RUN = 0V, SENSE = 5V 10 20 µA
I-Grade (Note 2) 30 µA
H-Grade (Note 2) 50 µA
GATE Driver
trGATE Driver Output Rise Time CL = 3300pF (Note 7) 17 100 ns
tfGATE Driver Output Fall Time CL = 3300pF (Note 7) 8 100 ns
Note 1: Stresses beyond those listed under Absolute Maximum Ratings
may cause permanent damage to the device. Exposure to any Absolute
Maximum Rating condition for extended periods may affect device
reliability and lifetime.
Note 2: The LTC1871E is guaranteed to meet performance specifi cations
from 0°C to 85°C operating temperature. Specifi cations over the –40°C to
85°C operating temperature range are assured by design, characterization
and correlation with statistical process controls. The LTC1871I is
guaranteed over the full –40°C to 125°C operating temperature range
and the LTC1871H is guaranteed over the full –40°C to 150°C operating
temperature range.
Note 3: TJ is calculated from the ambient temperature TA and power
dissipation PD according to the following formula:
T
J = TA + (PD • 110°C/W)
Note 4: The dynamic input supply current is higher due to power MOSFET
gate charging (QG • fOSC). See Applications Information.
Note 5: The LTC1871 is tested in a feedback loop which servos VFB to
the reference voltage with the ITH pin forced to the midpoint of its voltage
range (0.3V ≤ VITH ≤ 1.2V, midpoint = 0.75V).
Note 6: In a synchronized application, the internal slope compensation
gain is increased by 25%. Synchronizing to a signifi cantly higher ratio will
reduce the effective amount of slope compensation, which could result in
subharmonic oscillation for duty cycles greater than 50%.
Note 7: Rise and fall times are measured at 10% and 90% levels.
LTC1871
5
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TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
FB Voltage vs Temp FB Voltage Line Regulation FB Pin Current vs Temperature
Shutdown Mode IQ vs VIN Shutdown Mode IQ vs Temperature Burst Mode IQ vs VIN
Burst Mode IQ vs Temperature Dynamic IQ vs Frequency
Gate Drive Rise and
Fall Time vs CL
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–50
FB VOLTAGE (V)
1.23
1.24
150
1871 G01
1.22
1.21 050 100
–25 25 75 125
1.25
VIN (V)
0
1.229
FB VOLTAGE (V)
1.230
1.231
5101520
1871 G02
25 30 35
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–50
0
FB PIN CURRENT (nA)
10
20
30
40
60
–25 250 50 10075
1871 G03
125 150
50
VIN (V)
0
0
SHUTDOWN MODE IQ (µA)
10
20
10 20 30 40
1871 G04
30
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–50
0
SHUTDOWN MODE IQ (µA)
5
10
15
20
–25 0 25 50
1871 G05
75 100 125 150
VIN = 5V
VIN (V)
0
0
Burst Mode IQ (µA)
100
200
300
400
600
10 20
1871 G06
30 40
500
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–50
0
Burst Mode IQ (µA)
200
500
050 75
1871 G07
100
400
300
–25 25 100 125 150
FREQUENCY (kHz)
0
0
IQ (mA)
2
6
8
10
800
18
1871 G08
4
400 1200
600
200 1000
12
14
16
CL = 3300pF
IQ(TOT) = 550µA + Qg • f
CL (pF)
0
0
TIME (ns)
10
20
30
40
60
2000 4000 6000 8000
1871 G09
10000 12000
50
RISE TIME
FALL TIME
LTC1871
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TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
RUN Thresholds vs VIN RUN Thresholds vs Temperature RT vs Frequency
Frequency vs Temperature
Maximum Sense Threshold
vs Temperature
SENSE Pin Current
vs Temperature
INTVCC Load Regulation INTVCC Line Regulation
INTVCC Dropout Voltage
vs Current, Temperature
VIN (V)
0
1.2
RUN THRESHOLDS (V)
1.3
1.4
10 20 30 40
1871 G10
1.5
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–50
RUN THRESHOLDS (V)
1.30
1.35
150
1871 G11
1.25
1.20 050 100
–25 25 75 125
1.40
FREQUENCY (kHz)
100
RT (kΩ)
300
1000
1871 G12
10
100
200 1000
900
800700600
500
400
0
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–50
275
GATE FREQUENCY (kHz)
280
290
295
300
325
310
050 75
1871 G13
285
315
320
305
–25 25 100 125 150
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–50
140
MAX SENSE THRESHOLD (mV)
145
150
155
160
–25 0 25 50
1871 G14
75 100 125 150
TEMPERATURE (°C)
–50
25
SENSE PIN CURRENT (µA)
30
35
050 75
1871 G15
–25 25 100 125 150
GATE HIGH
VSENSE = 0V
INTVCC LOAD (mA)
0
INTVCC VOLTAGE (V)
5.2
30 50 80
1871 G16
5.1
5.0
10 20 40 60 70
VIN = 7.5V
VIN (V)
0
5.1
INTVCC VOLTAGE (V)
5.2
5.3
10 20 30 40
1871 G17
5.4
51525 35
INTVCC LOAD (mA)
0
0
DROPOUT VOLTAGE (mV)
50
150
200
250
500
350
510
1871 G18
100
400
450
300
15 20
150°C
75°C
125°C
25°C
–50°C
0°C
LTC1871
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PIN FUNCTIONS
RUN (Pin 1): The RUN pin provides the user with an
accurate means for sensing the input voltage and pro-
gramming the start-up threshold for the converter. The
falling RUN pin threshold is nominally 1.248V and the
comparator has 100mV of hysteresis for noise immunity.
When the RUN pin is below this input threshold, the IC
is shut down and the VIN supply current is kept to a low
value (typ 10µA). The Absolute Maximum Rating for the
voltage on this pin is 7V.
ITH (Pin 2): Error Amplifi er Compensation Pin. The
current comparator input threshold increases with this
control voltage. Nominal voltage range for this pin is 0V
to 1.40V.
FB (Pin 3): Receives the feedback voltage from the external
resistor divider across the output. Nominal voltage for
this pin in regulation is 1.230V.
FREQ (Pin 4): A resistor from the FREQ pin to ground
programs the operating frequency of the chip. The nominal
voltage at the FREQ pin is 0.6V.
MODE/SYNC (Pin 5): This input controls the operating
mode of the converter and allows for synchronizing the
operating frequency to an external clock. If the MODE/
SYNC pin is connected to ground, Burst Mode operation
is enabled. If the MODE/SYNC pin is connected to INTVCC,
or if an external logic-level synchronization signal is ap-
plied to this input, Burst Mode operation is disabled and
the IC operates in a continuous mode.
GND (Pin 6): Ground Pin.
GATE (Pin 7): Gate Driver Output.
I
NTVCC (Pin 8): The Internal 5.20V Regulator Output.
The gate driver and control circuits are powered from
this voltage. Decouple this pin locally to the IC ground
with a minimum of 4.7µF low ESR tantalum or ceramic
capacitor.
VIN (Pin 9): Main Supply Pin. Must be closely decoupled
to ground.
SENSE (Pin 10): The Current Sense Input for the Control
Loop. Connect this pin to the drain of the power MOSFET
for VDS sensing and highest effi ciency. Alternatively, the
SENSE pin may be connected to a resistor in the source
of the power MOSFET. Internal leading edge blanking is
provided for both sensing methods.
LTC1871
8
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BLOCK DIAGRAM
+
+
+
1.230V
85mV OV
50k
EA
UV
TO
START-UP
CONTROL
BURST
COMPARATOR
S
R
Q
LOGIC
PWM LATCH
CURRENT
COMPARATOR
0.30V
1.230V
5.2V
+
2.00V
1.230V
SLOPE
1.230V
ILOOP
FB
ITH
+
gm
3
MODE/SYNC
5
FREQ
4
2
INTVCC
8LDO
V-TO-I
OSCV-TO-I
SLOPE
COMPENSATION
BIAS AND
START-UP
CONTROL
VIN
BIAS VREF
IOSC
RLOOP
+
+
C1
SENSE
10
GND
1871 BD
6
GATE
INTVCC
GND
7
VIN
1.248V
9
RUN
C2
1
0.6V
Main Control Loop
The LTC1871 is a constant frequency, current mode con-
troller for DC/DC boost, SEPIC and fl yback converter ap-
plications. The LTC1871 is distinguished from conventional
current mode controllers because the current control loop
can be closed by sensing the voltage drop across the power
MOSFET switch instead of across a discrete sense resistor,
as shown in Figure 2. This sensing technique improves
effi ciency, increases power density, and reduces the cost
of the overall solution.
For circuit operation, please refer to the Block Diagram of
the IC and Figure 1. In normal operation, the power MOSFET
is turned on when the oscillator sets the PWM latch and
is turned off when the current comparator C1 resets the
latch. The divided-down output voltage is compared to an
internal 1.230V reference by the error amplifi er EA, which
outputs an error signal at the ITH pin. The voltage on the
ITH pin sets the current comparator C1 input threshold.
When the load current increases, a fall in the FB voltage
relative to the reference voltage causes the ITH pin to rise,
which causes the current comparator C1 to trip at a higher
peak inductor current value. The average inductor current
will therefore rise until it equals the load current, thereby
maintaining output regulation.
OPERATION
LTC1871
9
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OPERATION
Figure 2. Using the SENSE Pin On the LTC1871
reset pulse to the main RS latch. Because this RS latch is
reset-dominant, the power MOSFET is actively held off for
the duration of an output overvoltage condition.
The LTC1871 can be used either by sensing the voltage
drop across the power MOSFET or by connecting the
SENSE pin to a conventional shunt resistor in the source
of the power MOSFET, as shown in Figure 2. Sensing the
voltage across the power MOSFET maximizes converter
effi ciency and minimizes the component count, but limits
the output voltage to the maximum rating for this pin (36V).
By connecting the SENSE pin to a resistor in the source
of the power MOSFET, the user is able to program output
voltages signifi cantly greater than 36V.
Programming the Operating Mode
For applications where maximizing the effi ciency at very
light loads (e.g., <100µA) is a high priority, the current
in the output divider could be decreased to a few micro-
amps and Burst Mode operation should be applied (i.e.,
the MODE/SYNC pin should be connected to ground).
In applications where fi xed frequency operation is more
critical than low current effi ciency, or where the lowest
output ripple is desired, pulse-skip mode operation should
be used and the MODE/SYNC pin should be connected
to the INTVCC pin. This allows discontinuous conduction
mode (DCM) operation down to near the limit defi ned
by the chip’s minimum on-time (about 175ns). Below
this output current level, the converter will begin to skip
cycles in order to maintain output regulation. Figures 3
and 4 show the light load switching waveforms for Burst
Mode and pulse-skip mode operation for the converter
in Figure 1.
Burst Mode Operation
Burst Mode operation is selected by leaving the MODE/
SYNC pin unconnected or by connecting it to ground. In
normal operation, the range on the ITH pin corresponding to
no load to full load is 0.30V to 1.2V. In Burst Mode opera-
tion, if the error amplifi er EA drives the ITH voltage below
0.525V, the buffered ITH input to the current comparator
C1 will be clamped at 0.525V (which corresponds to 25%
of maximum load current). The inductor current peak is
then held at approximately 30mV divided by the power
COUT
VSW
VSW
2a. SENSE Pin Connection for
Maximum Efficiency (VSW < 36V)
VOUT
VIN
GND
LD
+
COUT
RS
1871 F02
2b. SENSE Pin Connection for Precise
Control of Peak Current or for VSW > 36V
VOUT
VIN
GND
LD
+
GATE
GND
VIN
SENSE
GATE
GND
VIN
SENSE
The nominal operating frequency of the LTC1871 is pro-
grammed using a resistor from the FREQ pin to ground
and can be controlled over a 50kHz to 1000kHz range. In
addition, the internal oscillator can be synchronized to
an external clock applied to the MODE/SYNC pin and can
be locked to a frequency between 100% and 130% of its
nominal value. When the MODE/SYNC pin is left open, it
is pulled low by an internal 50k resistor and Burst Mode
operation is enabled. If this pin is taken above 2V or an
external clock is applied, Burst Mode operation is disabled
and the IC operates in continuous mode. With no load (or
an extremely light load), the controller will skip pulses in
order to maintain regulation and prevent excessive output
ripple.
The RUN pin controls whether the IC is enabled or is in a low
current shutdown state. A micropower 1.248V reference
and comparator C2 allow the user to program the supply
voltage at which the IC turns on and off (comparator C2
has 100mV of hysteresis for noise immunity). With the
RUN pin below 1.248V, the chip is off and the input supply
current is typically only 10µA.
An overvoltage comparator OV senses when the FB pin
exceeds the reference voltage by 6.5% and provides a
LTC1871
10
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MOSFET RDS(ON). If the ITH pin drops below 0.30V, the
Burst Mode comparator B1 will turn off the power MOSFET
and scale back the quiescent current of the IC to 250µA
(sleep mode). In this condition, the load current will be
supplied by the output capacitor until the ITH voltage rises
above the 50mV hysteresis of the burst comparator. At
light loads, short bursts of switching (where the average
inductor current is 20% of its maximum value) followed
by long periods of sleep will be observed, thereby greatly
improving converter effi ciency. Oscilloscope waveforms
illustrating Burst Mode operation are shown in Figure 3.
Pulse-Skip Mode Operation
With the MODE/SYNC pin tied to a DC voltage above 2V,
Burst Mode operation is disabled. The internal, 0.525V
buffered ITH burst clamp is removed, allowing the ITH
pin to directly control the current comparator from no
load to full load. With no load, the ITH pin is driven below
0.30V, the power MOSFET is turned off and sleep mode
is invoked. Oscilloscope waveforms illustrating this mode
of operation are shown in Figure 4.
When an external clock signal drives the MODE/SYNC
pin at a rate faster than the chip’s internal oscillator, the
oscillator will synchronize to it. In this synchronized mode,
Burst Mode operation is disabled. The constant frequency
associated with synchronized operation provides a more
controlled noise spectrum from the converter, at the ex-
pense of overall system effi ciency of light loads.
When the oscillators internal logic circuitry detects a
synchronizing signal on the MODE/SYNC pin, the in-
ternal oscillator ramp is terminated early and the slope
compensation is increased by approximately 30%. As
a result, in applications requiring synchronization, it is
recommended that the nominal operating frequency of
the IC be programmed to be about 75% of the external
clock frequency. Attempting to synchronize to too high an
external frequency (above 1.3fO) can result in inadequate
slope compensation and possible subharmonic oscillation
(or jitter).
The external clock signal must exceed 2V for at least 25ns,
and should have a maximum duty cycle of 80%, as shown
in Figure 5. The MOSFET turn on will synchronize to the
rising edge of the external clock signal.
Figure 3. LTC1871 Burst Mode Operation
(MODE/SYNC = 0V) at Low Output Current
Figure 4. LTC1871 Low Output Current Operation with
Burst Mode Operation Disabled (MODE/SYNC = INTVCC)
VOUT
50mV/DIV
IL
5A/DIV
10µs/DIV 1871 F03
VIN = 3.3V
VOUT = 5V
IOUT = 500mA
MODE/SYNC = 0V
(Burst Mode OPERATION)
VOUT
50mV/DIV
IL
5A/DIV
2µs/DIV 1871 F04
VIN = 3.3V
VOUT = 5V
IOUT = 500mA
MODE/SYNC = INTVCC
(PULSE-SKIP MODE)
OPERATION
Figure 5. MODE/SYNC Clock Input and Switching
Waveforms for Synchronized Operation
1871 F05
2V TO 7V
MODE/
SYNC
GATE
IL
tMIN = 25ns
0.8T
D = 40%
T T = 1/fO
LTC1871
11
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Programming the Operating Frequency
The choice of operating frequency and inductor value is
a tradeoff between effi ciency and component size. Low
frequency operation improves effi ciency by reducing
MOSFET and diode switching losses. However, lower
frequency operation requires more inductance for a given
amount of load current.
The LTC1871 uses a constant frequency architecture that
can be programmed over a 50kHz to 1000kHz range with
a single external resistor from the FREQ pin to ground, as
shown in Figure 1. The nominal voltage on the FREQ pin is
0.6V, and the current that fl ows into the FREQ pin is used
to charge and discharge an internal oscillator capacitor. A
graph for selecting the value of RT for a given operating
frequency is shown in Figure 6.
INTVCC Regulator Bypassing and Operation
An internal, P-channel low dropout voltage regulator pro-
duces the 5.2V supply which powers the gate driver and
logic circuitry within the LTC1871, as shown in Figure 7.
The INTVCC regulator can supply up to 50mA and must be
bypassed to ground immediately adjacent to the IC pins
with a minimum of 4.7µF tantalum or ceramic capacitor.
Good bypassing is necessary to supply the high transient
currents required by the MOSFET gate driver.
For input voltages that don’t exceed 7V (the absolute
maximum rating for this pin), the internal low dropout
regulator in the LTC1871 is redundant and the INTVCC pin
can be shorted directly to the VIN pin. With the INTVCC
pin shorted to VIN, however, the divider that programs the
regulated INTVCC voltage will draw 10µA of current from
the input supply, even in shutdown mode. For applications
that require the lowest shutdown mode input supply cur-
rent, do not connect the INTVCC pin to VIN. Regardless of
whether the INTVCC pin is shorted to VIN or not, it is always
necessary to have the driver circuitry bypassed with a
4.7μF tantalum or low ESR ceramic capacitor to ground
immediately adjacent to the INTVCC and GND pins.
In an actual application, most of the IC supply current is
used to drive the gate capacitance of the power MOSFET.
As a result, high input voltage applications in which a
large power MOSFET is being driven at high frequencies
can cause the LTC1871 to exceed its maximum junction
Figure 6. Timing Resistor (RT) Value
FREQUENCY (kHz)
100
RT (kΩ)
300
1000
1871 F06
10
100
200 1000
900
800700600
500
400
0
Figure 7. Bypassing the LDO Regulator and Gate Driver Supply
+
+
1.230V
R2 R1
P-CH
5.2V
DRIVER GATE
CVCC
4.7µF
CIN
INPUT
SUPPLY
2.5V TO 30V
GND
PLACE AS CLOSE AS
POSSIBLE TO DEVICE PINS
M1
1871 F07
INTVCC
VIN
GND
LOGIC
LTC1871
12
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
temperature rating. The junction temperature can be
estimated using the following equations:
I
Q(TOT) ≈ IQ + f • QG
P
IC = VIN • (IQ + f • QG)
T
J = TA + PIC • RTH(JA)
The total quiescent current IQ(TOT) consists of the static
supply current (IQ) and the current required to charge and
discharge the gate of the power MOSFET. The 10-pin MSOP
package has a thermal resistance of RTH(JA) = 120°C/W.
As an example, consider a power supply with VIN = 5V and
VO = 12V at IO = 1A. The switching frequency is 500kHz,
and the maximum ambient temperature is 70°C. The power
MOSFET chosen is the IRF7805, which has a maximum
RDS(ON) of 11m (at room temperature) and a maximum
total gate charge of 37nC (the temperature coeffi cient of
the gate charge is low).
I
Q(TOT) = 600µA + 37nC • 500kHz = 19.1mA
P
IC = 5V • 19.1mA = 95mW
T
J = 70°C + 120°C/W • 95mW = 81.4°C
This demonstrates how signifi cant the gate charge current
can be when compared to the static quiescent current in
the IC.
To prevent the maximum junction temperature from being
exceeded, the input supply current must be checked when
operating in a continuous mode at high VIN. A tradeoff
between the operating frequency and the size of the power
MOSFET may need to be made in order to maintain a reliable
IC junction temperature. Prior to lowering the operating
frequency, however, be sure to check with power MOSFET
manufacturers for their latest-and-greatest low QG, low
RDS(ON) devices. Power MOSFET manufacturing tech-
nologies are continually improving, with newer and better
performance devices being introduced almost yearly.
Output Voltage Programming
The output voltage is set by a resistor divider according
to the following formula:
VO=1.230V 1+R2
R1
The external resistor divider is connected to the output
as shown in Figure 1, allowing remote voltage sensing.
The resistors R1 and R2 are typically chosen so that the
error caused by the current fl owing into the FB pin dur-
ing normal operation is less than 1% (this translates to a
maximum value of R1 of about 250k).
Programming Turn-On and Turn-Off Thresholds with
the RUN Pin
The LTC1871 contains an independent, micropower voltage
reference and comparator detection circuit that remains
active even when the device is shut down, as shown in
Figure 8. This allows users to accurately program an input
voltage at which the converter will turn on and off. The
falling threshold voltage on the RUN pin is equal to the
internal reference voltage of 1.248V. The comparator has
100mV of hysteresis to increase noise immunity.
The turn-on and turn-off input voltage thresholds are
programmed using a resistor divider according to the
following formulas:
VIN(OFF) =1.248V 1+R2
R1
VIN(ON) =1.348V 1+R2
R1
The resistor R1 is typically chosen to be less than 1M.
For applications where the RUN pin is only to be used as
a logic input, the user should be aware of the 7V Absolute
Maximum Rating for this pin! The RUN pin can be con-
nected to the input voltage through an external 1M resistor,
as shown in Figure 8c, for “always on” operation.
Application Circuits
A basic LTC1871 application circuit is shown in Figure 1.
External component selection is driven by the character-
istics of the load and the input supply. The fi rst topology
to be analyzed will be the boost converter, followed by
SEPIC (single ended primary inductance converter).
LTC1871
13
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Figure 8a. Programming the Turn-On and Turn-Off Thresholds Using the RUN Pin
Boost Converter: Duty Cycle Considerations
For a boost converter operating in a continuous conduction
mode (CCM), the duty cycle of the main switch is:
D=VO+VD–V
IN
VO+VD
where VD is the forward voltage of the boost diode. For
converters where the input voltage is close to the output
voltage, the duty cycle is low and for converters that develop
a high output voltage from a low voltage input supply,
the duty cycle is high. The maximum output voltage for a
boost converter operating in CCM is:
VO(MAX) =VIN(MIN)
1–DMAX
( )
–V
D
The maximum duty cycle capability of the LTC1871 is
typically 92%. This allows the user to obtain high output
voltages from low input supply voltages.
Boost Converter: The Peak and Average Input Currents
The control circuit in the LTC1871 is measuring the input
current (either by using the RDS(ON) of the power MOSFET
or by using a sense resistor in the MOSFET source), so
the output current needs to be refl ected back to the input
in order to dimension the power MOSFET properly. Based
on the fact that, ideally, the output power is equal to the
input power, the maximum average input current is:
IIN(MAX) =IO(MAX)
1–DMAX
The peak input current is:
IIN(PEAK) =1+
2
IO(MAX)
1–DMAX
The maximum duty cycle, DMAX, should be calculated at
minimum VIN.
Figure 8c. External Pull-Up Resistor On
RUN Pin for “Always On” Operation
Figure 8b. On/Off Control Using External Logic
+
RUN
COMPARATOR
VIN
RUN
R2
R1
INPUT
SUPPLY OPTIONAL
FILTER
CAPACITOR
+
GND
1871 F8a
BIAS AND
START-UP
CONTROL
1.248V
µPOWER
REFERENCE
6V
+
RUN
COMPARATOR
1.248V
1871 F08b
RUN
6V
EXTERNAL
LOGIC CONTROL
+
RUN
COMPARATOR
VIN
RUN
R2
1M
INPUT
SUPPLY
+
GND 1.248V
1871 F08c
6V
LTC1871
14
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Boost Converter: Ripple Current ΔIL and the ‘χ’ Factor
The constant ‘χ’ in the equation above represents the
percentage peak-to-peak ripple current in the inductor,
relative to its maximum value. For example, if 30% ripple
current is chosen, then χ = 0.30, and the peak current is
15% greater than the average.
For a current mode boost regulator operating in CCM,
slope compensation must be added for duty cycles above
50% in order to avoid subharmonic oscillation. For the
LTC1871, this ramp compensation is internal. Having an
internally fi xed ramp compensation waveform, however,
does place some constraints on the value of the inductor
and the operating frequency. If too large an inductor is
used, the resulting current ramp (ΔIL) will be small relative
to the internal ramp compensation (at duty cycles above
50%), and the converter operation will approach voltage
mode (ramp compensation reduces the gain of the current
loop). If too small an inductor is used, but the converter
is still operating in CCM (near critical conduction mode),
the internal ramp compensation may be inadequate to
prevent subharmonic oscillation. To ensure good current
mode gain and avoid subharmonic oscillation, it is recom-
mended that the ripple current in the inductor fall in the
range of 20% to 40% of the maximum average current.
For example, if the maximum average input current is
1A, choose a ΔIL between 0.2A and 0.4A, and a value ‘χ
between 0.2 and 0.4.
Boost Converter: Inductor Selection
Given an operating input voltage range, and having chosen
the operating frequency and ripple current in the inductor,
the inductor value can be determined using the following
equation:
L=VIN(MIN)
IL f •D
MAX
where:
IL=IO(MAX)
1–DMAX
Remember that boost converters are not short-circuit
protected. Under a shorted output condition, the inductor
current is limited only by the input supply capability. For
applications requiring a step-up converter that is short-
circuit protected, please refer to the applications section
covering SEPIC converters.
The minimum required saturation current of the inductor
can be expressed as a function of the duty cycle and the
load current, as follows:
IL(SAT) 1+
2
IO(MAX)
1–DMAX
The saturation current rating for the inductor should be
checked at the minimum input voltage (which results
in the highest inductor current) and maximum output
current.
Boost Converter: Operating in Discontinuous Mode
Discontinuous mode operation occurs when the load cur-
rent is low enough to allow the inductor current to run out
during the off-time of the switch, as shown in Figure 9.
Once the inductor current is near zero, the switch and diode
capacitances resonate with the inductance to form damped
ringing at 1MHz to 10MHz. If the off-time is long enough,
the drain voltage will settle to the input voltage.
Depending on the input voltage and the residual energy
in the inductor, this ringing can cause the drain of the
power MOSFET to go below ground where it is clamped
by the body diode. This ringing is not harmful to the IC
and it has not been shown to contribute signifi cantly to
EMI. Any attempt to damp it with a snubber will degrade
the effi ciency.
Figure 9. Discontinuous Mode Waveforms
MOSFET DRAIN
VOLTAGE
2V/DIV
INDUCTOR
CURRENT
2A/DIV
2µs/DIV 1871 F09
VIN = 3.3V IOUT = 200mA
VOUT = 5V
LTC1871
15
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Boost Converter: Inductor Core Selection
Once the value for L is known, the type of inductor must
be selected. High effi ciency converters generally cannot
afford the core loss found in low cost powdered iron cores,
forcing the use of more expensive ferrite, molypermalloy
or Kool Mµ
®
cores. Actual core loss is independent of core
size for a fi xed inductor value, but is very dependent on
the inductance selected. As inductance increases, core
losses go down. Unfortunately, increased inductance
requires more turns of wire and therefore, copper losses
will increase. Generally, there is a tradeoff between core
losses and copper losses that needs to be balanced.
Ferrite designs have very low core losses and are pre-
ferred at high switching frequencies, so design goals can
concentrate on copper losses and preventing saturation.
Ferrite core material saturates “hard,” meaning that the
inductance collapses rapidly when the peak design current
is exceeded. This results in an abrupt increase in inductor
ripple current and consequently, output voltage ripple. Do
not allow the core to saturate!
Molypermalloy (from Magnetics, Inc.) is a very good,
low cost core material for toroids, but is more expensive
than ferrite. A reasonable compromise from the same
manufacturer is Kool Mµ.
Boost Converter: Power MOSFET Selection
The power MOSFET serves two purposes in the LTC1871:
it represents the main switching element in the power path,
and its RDS(ON) represents the current sensing element
for the control loop. Important parameters for the power
MOSFET include the drain-to-source breakdown voltage
(BVDSS), the threshold voltage (VGS(TH)), the on-resistance
(RDS(ON)) versus gate-to-source voltage, the gate-to-source
and gate-to-drain charges (QGS and QGD, respectively),
the maximum drain current (ID(MAX)) and the MOSFETs
thermal resistances (RTH(JC) and RTH(JA)).
The gate drive voltage is set by the 5.2V INTVCC low drop
regulator. Consequently, logic-level threshold MOSFETs
should be used in most LTC1871 applications. If low input
voltage operation is expected (e.g., supplying power from
a lithium-ion battery or a 3.3V logic supply), then sublogic-
level threshold MOSFETs should be used.
Pay close attention to the BVDSS specifi cations for the
MOSFETs relative to the maximum actual switch voltage in
the application. Many logic-level devices are limited to 30V
or less, and the switch node can ring during the turn-off of
the MOSFET due to layout parasitics. Check the switching
waveforms of the MOSFET directly across the drain and
source terminals using the actual PC board layout (not
just on a lab breadboard!) for excessive ringing.
During the switch on-time, the control circuit limits the
maximum voltage drop across the power MOSFET to about
150mV (at low duty cycle). The peak inductor current
is therefore limited to 150mV/RDS(ON). The relationship
between the maximum load current, duty cycle and the
RDS(ON) of the power MOSFET is:
RDS(ON) VSENSE(MAX) 1–DMAX
1+
2
•I
O(MAX) T
The VSENSE(MAX) term is typically 150mV at low duty
cycle, and is reduced to about 100mV at a duty cycle of
92% due to slope compensation, as shown in Figure 10.
The ρT term accounts for the temperature coeffi cient of
the RDS(ON) of the MOSFET, which is typically 0.4%/°C.
Figure 11 illustrates the variation of normalized RDS(ON)
over tempera
ture for a typical power MOSFET.
DUTY CYCLE
0
MAXIMUM CURRENT SENSE VOLTAGE (mV)
100
150
0.8
1871 F10
50
00.2 0.4 0.5 1.0
200
Figure 10. Maximum SENSE Threshold Voltage vs Duty Cycle
LTC1871
16
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
JUNCTION TEMPERATURE (°C)
–50
ρT NORMALIZED ON RESISTANCE
1.0
1.5
150
1871 F11
0.5
0050 100
2.0
Figure 11. Normalized RDS(ON) vs Temperature
Another method of choosing which power MOSFET to
use is to check what the maximum output current is for a
given RDS(ON), since MOSFET on-resistances are available
in discrete values.
IO(MAX) =VSENSE(MAX) 1–DMAX
1+
2
•RDS(ON) T
It is worth noting that the 1 – DMAX relationship between
IO(MAX) and RDS(ON) can cause boost converters with a
wide input range to experience a dramatic range of maxi-
mum input and output current. This should be taken into
consideration in applications where it is important to limit
the maximum current drawn from the input supply.
Calculating Power MOSFET Switching and Conduction
Losses and Junction Temperatures
In order to calculate the junction temperature of the
power MOSFET, the power dissipated by the device must
be known. This power dissipation is a function of the
duty cycle, the load current and the junction temperature
itself (due to the positive temperature coeffi cient of its
RDS(ON)). As a result, some iterative calculation is normally
required to determine a reasonably accurate value. Since
the con
troller is using the MOSFET as both a switching
and a sensing element, care should be taken to ensure
that the converter is capable of delivering the required
load current over all operating conditions (line voltage
and temperature), and for the worst-case specifi cations
for VSENSE(MAX) and the RDS(ON) of the MOSFET listed in
the manufacturers data sheet.
The power dissipated by the MOSFET in a boost converter is:
P
FET
=I
O(MAX)
1–D
MAX
2
•R
DS(ON)
•D
MAX
T
+k•V
O1.85
I
O(MAX)
1–D
MAX
( )
•C
RSS
•f
The fi rst term in the equation above represents the I2R
losses in the device, and the second term, the switching
losses. The constant, k = 1.7, is an empirical factor inversely
related to the gate drive current and has the dimension
of 1/current.
From a known power dissipated in the power MOSFET, its
junction temperature can be obtained using the following
formula:
T
J = TA + PFET • RTH(JA)
The RTH(JA) to be used in this equation normally includes
the RTH(JC) for the device plus the thermal resistance from
the case to the ambient temperature (RTH(CA)). This value
of TJ can then be compared to the original, assumed value
used in the iterative calculation process.
Boost Converter: Output Diode Selection
To maximize effi ciency, a fast switching diode with low
forward drop and low reverse leakage is desired. The output
diode in a boost converter conducts current during the
switch off-time. The peak reverse voltage that the diode
must withstand is equal to the regulator output voltage.
The average forward current in normal operation is equal
to the output current, and the peak current is equal to the
peak inductor current.
ID(PEAK) =IL(PEAK) =1+
2
IO(MAX)
1–DMAX
The power dissipated by the diode is:
P
D = IO(MAX) • VD
and the diode junction temperature is:
T
J = TA + PD • RTH(JA)
The RTH(JA) to be used in this equation normally includes
the RTH(JC) for the device plus the thermal resistance from
the board to the ambient temperature in the enclosure.
LTC1871
17
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Remember to keep the diode lead lengths short and to
observe proper switch-node layout (see Board Layout
Checklist) to avoid excessive ringing and increased dis-
sipation.
Boost Converter: Output Capacitor Selection
Contributions of ESR (equivalent series resistance), ESL
(equivalent series inductance) and the bulk capacitance
must be considered when choosing the correct component
for a given output ripple voltage. The effects of these three
parameters (ESR, ESL and bulk C) on the output voltage
ripple waveform are illustrated in Figure 12e for a typical
boost converter.
The choice of component(s) begins with the maximum
acceptable ripple voltage (expressed as a percentage of
the output voltage), and how this ripple should be divided
between the ESR step and the charging/discharging ΔV.
For the purpose of simplicity we will choose 2% for the
maximum output ripple, to be divided equally between the
ESR step and the charging/discharging ΔV. This percent-
age ripple will change, depending on the requirements
of the application, and the equations provided below can
easily be modifi ed.
For a 1% contribution to the total ripple voltage, the ESR
of the output capacitor can be determined using the fol-
lowing equation:
ESRCOUT 0.01• VO
IIN(PEAK)
where:
For the bulk C component, which also contributes 1% to
the total ripple:
COUT IO(MAX)
0.01• VO f
For many designs it is possible to choose a single capacitor
type that satisfi es both the ESR and bulk C requirements
for the design. In certain demanding applications, however,
the ripple voltage can be improved signifi cantly by con-
necting two or more types of capacitors in parallel. For
example, using a low ESR ceramic capacitor can minimize
the ESR step, while an electrolytic capacitor can be used
to supply the required bulk C.
Once the output capacitor ESR and bulk capacitance have
been determined, the overall ripple voltage waveform
should be verifi ed on a dedicated PC board (see Board
Layout section for more information on component place-
ment). Lab breadboards generally suffer from excessive
series inductance (due to inter-component wiring), and
these parasitics can make the switching waveforms look
signifi cantly worse than they would be on a properly
designed PC board.
The output capacitor in a boost regulator experiences high
RMS ripple currents, as shown in Figure 12. The RMS
output capacitor ripple current is:
IRMS(COUT) IO(MAX) VO–V
IN(MIN)
VIN(MIN)
Note that the ripple current ratings from capacitor manu-
facturers are often based on only 2000 hours of life. This
makes it advisable to further derate the capacitor or to
choose a capacitor rated at a higher temperature than
required. Several capacitors may also be placed in parallel
to meet size or height requirements in the design.
Manufacturers such as Nichicon, United Chemicon and
Sanyo should be considered for high performance through-
hole capacitors. The OS-CON semiconductor dielectric
capacitor available from Sanyo has the lowest product of
ESR and size of any aluminum electrolytic, at a somewhat
higher price.
In surface mount applications, multiple capacitors may
have to be placed in parallel in order to meet the ESR or
RMS current handling requirements of the application.
Aluminum electrolytic and dry tantalum capacitors are
both available in surface mount packages. In the case of
tantalum, it is critical that the capacitors have been surge
tested for use in switching power supplies. An excellent
choice is AVX TPS series of surface mount tantalum. Also,
ceramic capacitors are now available with extremely low
ESR, ESL and high ripple current ratings.
LTC1871
18
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Boost Converter: Input Capacitor Selection
The input capacitor of a boost converter is less critical
than the output capacitor, due to the fact that the inductor
is in series with the input and the input current waveform
is continuous (see Figure 12b). The input voltage source
impedance determines the size of the input capacitor,
which is typically in the range of 10µF to 100µF. A low ESR
capacitor is recommended, although it is not as critical as
for the output capacitor.
The RMS input capacitor ripple current for a boost con-
verter is:
IRMS(CIN) =0.3 VIN(MIN)
L•f•D
MAX
Please note that the input capacitor can see a very high
surge current when a battery is suddenly connected to
the input of the converter and solid tantalum capacitors
can fail catastrophically under these conditions. Be sure
to specify surge-tested capacitors!
Burst Mode Operation and Considerations
The choice of MOSFET RDS(ON) and inductor value also
determines the load current at which the LTC1871 enters
Burst Mode operation. When bursting, the controller
clamps the peak inductor current to approximately:
IBURST(PEAK) =30mV
RDS(ON)
which represents about 20% of the maximum 150mV
SENSE pin voltage. The corresponding average current
depends upon the amount of ripple current. Lower inductor
values (higher ΔIL) will reduce the load current at which
Burst Mode operations begins, since it is the peak current
that is being clamped.
The output voltage ripple can increase during Burst Mode
operation if ΔIL is substantially less than IBURST
. This can
occur if the input voltage is very low or if a very large
inductor is chosen. At high duty cycles, a skipped cycle
causes the inductor current to quickly decay to zero.
However, because ΔIL is small, it takes multiple cycles
for the current to ramp back up to IBURST(PEAK). Dur-
ing this inductor charging interval, the output capacitor
must supply the load current and a signifi cant droop in
the output voltage can occur. Generally, it is a good idea
to choose a value of inductor ΔIL between 25% and 40%
of IIN(MAX). The alternative is to either increase the value
of the output capacitor or disable Burst Mode operation
using the MODE/SYNC pin.
Burst Mode operation can be defeated by connecting the
MODE/SYNC pin to a high logic-level voltage (either with
a control input or by connecting this pin to INTVCC). In
this mode, the burst clamp is removed, and the chip can
operate at constant frequency from continuous conduction
mode (CCM) at full load, down into deep discontinuous
conduction mode (DCM) at light load. Prior to skipping
pulses at very light load (i.e., < 5% of full load), the control-
ler will operate with a minimum switch on-time in DCM.
VIN
LD
SW
12a. Circuit Diagram
12b. Inductor and Input Currents
COUT
VOUT
RL
IIN
IL
12c. Switch Current
ISW
tON
12d. Diode and Output Currents
12e. Output Voltage Ripple Waveform
IO
ID
VOUT
(AC)
tOFF
ΔVESR
RINGING DUE TO
TOTAL INDUCTANCE
(BOARD + CAP)
ΔVCOUT
Figure 12. Switching Waveforms for a Boost Converter
LTC1871
19
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Table 1. Recommended Component Manufacturers
VENDOR COMPONENTS TELEPHONE WEB ADDRESS
AVX Capacitors (207) 282-5111 avxcorp.com
BH Electronics Inductors, Transformers (952) 894-9590 bhelectronics.com
Coilcraft Inductors (847) 639-6400 coilcraft.com
Coiltronics Inductors (407) 241-7876 coiltronics.com
Diodes, Inc Diodes (805) 446-4800 diodes.com
Fairchild MOSFETs (408) 822-2126 fairchildsemi.com
General Semiconductor Diodes (516) 847-3000 generalsemiconductor.com
International Rectifi er MOSFETs, Diodes (310) 322-3331 irf.com
IRC Sense Resistors (361) 992-7900 irctt.com
Kemet Tantalum Capacitors (408) 986-0424 kemet.com
Magnetics Inc Toroid Cores (800) 245-3984 mag-inc.com
Microsemi Diodes (617) 926-0404 microsemi.com
Murata-Erie Inductors, Capacitors (770) 436-1300 murata.co.jp
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Pulse skipping prevents a loss of control of the output at
very light loads and reduces output voltage ripple.
Effi ciency Considerations: How Much Does VDS
Sensing Help?
The effi ciency of a switching regulator is equal to the out-
put power divided by the input power (×100%). Percent
effi ciency can be expressed as:
% Effi ciency = 100% – (L1 + L2 + L3 + …),
where L1, L2, etc. are the individual loss components as a
percentage of the input power. It is often useful to analyze
individual losses to determine what is limiting the effi ciency
and which change would produce the most improvement.
Although all dissipative elements in the circuit produce
losses, four main sources usually account for the majority
of the losses in LTC1871 application circuits:
1. The supply current into VIN. The VIN current is the sum
of the DC supply current IQ (given in the Electrical Char-
acteristics) and the MOSFET driver and control currents.
The DC supply current into the VIN pin is typically about
550µA and represents a small power loss (much less
than 1%) that increases with VIN. The driver current
results from switching the gate capacitance of the power
MOSFET; this current is typically much larger than the
DC current. Each time the MOSFET is switched on and
LTC1871
20
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
then off, a packet of gate charge QG is transferred from
INTVCC to ground. The resulting dQ/dt is a current that
must be supplied to the INTVCC capacitor through the
VIN pin by an external supply. If the IC is operating in
CCM:
I
Q(TOT) ≈ IQ = f • QG
P
IC = VIN • (IQ + f • QG)
2. Power MOSFET switching and conduction losses. The
technique of using the voltage drop across the power
MOSFET to close the current feedback loop was chosen
because of the increased effi ciency that results from
not having a sense resistor. The losses in the power
MOSFET are equal to:
P
FET
=I
O(MAX)
1–D
MAX
2
•R
DS(ON)
•D
MAX
T
+k•V
O1.85
I
O(MAX)
1–D
MAX
( )
•C
RSS
•f
The I2R power savings that result from not having a
discrete sense resistor can be calculated almost by
inspection.
P
R(SENSE) =IO(MAX)
1–DMAX
2
•RSENSE •D
MAX
To understand the magnitude of the improvement with
this VDS sensing technique, consider the 3.3V input,
5V output power supply shown in Figure 1. The maxi-
mum load current is 7A (10A peak) and the duty cycle
is 39%. Assuming a ripple current of 40%, the peak
inductor current is 13.8A and the average is 11.5A.
With a maximum sense voltage of about 140mV, the
sense resistor value would be 10m, and the power
dissipated in this resistor would be 514mW at maxi-
mum output current. Assuming an effi ciency of 90%,
this sense resistor power dissipation represents 1.3%
of the overall input power. In other words, for this ap-
plication, the use of VDS sensing would increase the
effi ciency by approximately 1.3%.
For more details regarding the various terms in these
equations, please refer to the section Boost Converter:
Power MOSFET Selection.
3. The losses in the inductor are simply the DC input cur-
rent squared times the winding resistance. Expressing
this loss as a function of the output current yields:
P
R(WINDING) =IO(MAX)
1–DMAX
2
•RW
4. Losses in the boost diode. The power dissipation in the
boost diode is:
P
DIODE = IO(MAX) • VD
The boost diode can be a major source of power loss
in a boost converter. For the 3.3V input, 5V output at
7A example given above, a Schottky diode with a 0.4V
forward voltage would dissipate 2.8W, which represents
7% of the input power. Diode losses can become signifi -
cant at low output voltages where the forward voltage
is a signifi cant percentage of the output voltage.
5. Other losses, including CIN and CO ESR dissipation and
inductor core losses, generally account for less than
2% of the total additional loss.
Checking Transient Response
The regulator loop response can be verifi ed by looking at
the load transient response. Switching regulators generally
take several cycles to respond to an instantaneous step
in resistive load current. When the load step occurs, VO
immediately shifts by an amount equal to (ΔILOAD)(ESR),
and then CO begins to charge or discharge (depending on
the direction of the load step) as shown in Figure 13. The
regulator feedback loop acts on the resulting error amp
output signal to return VO to its steady-state value. During
this recovery time, VO can be monitored for overshoot or
ringing that would indicate a stability problem.
Figure 13. Load Transient Response for a 3.3V Input,
5V Output Boost Converter Application, 0.7A to 7A Step
IOUT
2V/DIV
VOUT (AC)
100mV/DIV
100µs/DIV 1871 F13
VIN = 3.3V
VOUT = 5V
MODE/SYNC = INTVCC
(PULSE-SKIP MODE)
LTC1871
21
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
A second, more severe transient can occur when con-
necting loads with large (>1µF) supply bypass capacitors.
The discharged bypass capacitors are effectively put in
parallel with CO, causing a nearly instantaneous drop in
VO. No regulator can deliver enough current to prevent
this problem if the load switch resistance is low and it is
driven quickly. The only solution is to limit the rise time
of the switch drive in order to limit the inrush current
di/dt to the load.
Boost Converter Design Example
The design example given here will be for the circuit shown
in Figure 1. The input voltage is 3.3V, and the output is 5V
at a maximum load current of 7A (10A peak).
1. The duty cycle is:
D=VO+VD–V
IN
VO+VD
=5+0.4 3.3
5+0.4 =38.9%
2. Pulse-skip operation is chosen so the MODE/SYNC pin
is shorted to INTVCC.
3. The operating frequency is chosen to be 300kHz to
reduce the size of the inductor. From Figure 5, the
resistor from the FREQ pin to ground is 80k.
4. An inductor ripple current of 40% of the maximum load
current is chosen, so the peak input current (which is
also the minimum saturation current) is:
IIN(PEAK) =1+
2
IO(MAX)
1–DMAX
=1.2 7
1– 0.39 =13.8A
The inductor ripple current is:
IL=IO(MAX)
1–DMAX
=0.4 7
1– 0.39 =4.6A
And so the inductor value is:
L=VIN(MIN)
IL f •D
MAX =3.3V
4.6A 300kHz 0.39 =0.93μH
The component chosen is a 1µH inductor made by
Sumida (part number CEP125-H 1ROMH) which has
a saturation current of greater than 20A.
5. With the input voltage to the IC bootstrapped to the
output of the power supply (5V), a logic-level MOSFET
can be used. Because the duty cycle is 39%, the maxi-
mum SENSE pin threshold voltage is reduced from its
low duty cycle typical value of 150mV to approximately
140mV. Assuming a MOSFET junction temperature of
125°C, the room temperature MOSFET RDS(ON) should
be less than:
RDS(ON) VSENSE(MAX) 1–DMAX
1+
2
•I
O(MAX) T
=0.140V 1 0.39
1+0.4
2
•7A1.5
=6.8m
The MOSFET used was the Fairchild FDS7760A, which
has a maximum RDS(ON) of 8m at 4.5V VGS, a BVDSS
of greater than 30V, and a gate charge of 37nC at 5V
VGS.
6. The diode for this design must handle a maximum
DC output current of 10A and be rated for a minimum
reverse voltage of VOUT
, or 5V. A 25A, 15V diode from
On Semiconductor (MBRB2515L) was chosen for its
high power dissipation capability.
7. The output capacitor usually consists of a high valued
bulk C connected in parallel with a lower valued, low
ESR ceramic. Based on a maximum output ripple voltage
of 1%, or 50mV, the bulk C needs to be greater than:
COUT IOUT(MAX)
0.01• VOUT f =
7A
0.01• 5V 300kHz=466μF
The RMS ripple current rating for this capacitor needs
to exceed:
IRMS(COUT) IO(MAX) VO–V
IN(MIN)
VIN(MIN)
=
7A 5V 3.3V
3.3V=5A
To satisfy this high RMS current demand, four
150µF Panasonic capacitors (EEFUEOJ151R) are
required. In parallel with these bulk capacitors, two
22µF, low ESR (X5R) Taiyo Yuden ceramic capacitors
LTC1871
22
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
(JMK325BJ226MM) are added for HF noise reduction.
Check the output ripple with a single oscilloscope
probe connected directly across the output capacitor
terminals, where the HF switching currents fl ow.
8. The choice of an input capacitor for a boost converter
depends on the impedance of the source supply and
the amount of input ripple the converter will safely tol-
erate. For this particular design and lab setup a 100µF
Sanyo Poscap (6TPC 100M), in parallel with two 22µF
Taiyo Yuden ceramic capacitors (JMK325BJ226MM)
is required (the input and return lead lengths are kept
to a few inches, but the peak input current is close to
20A!). As with the output node, check the input ripple
with a single oscilloscope probe connected across the
input capacitor terminals.
PC Board Layout Checklist
1. In order to minimize switching noise and improve output
load regulation, the GND pin of the LTC1871 should be
connected directly to 1) the negative terminal of the
INTVCC decoupling capacitor, 2) the negative terminal
of the output decoupling capacitors, 3) the
source of
the power MOSFET or the bottom terminal of the sense
resistor, 4) the negative terminal of the input capacitor
and 5) at least one via to the ground plane immediately
adjacent to Pin 6. The ground trace on the top layer of
the PC board should be as wide and short as possible
to minimize series resistance and inductance.
2. Beware of ground loops in multiple layer PC boards.
Try to maintain one central ground node on the board
and use the input capacitor to avoid excess input ripple
for high output current power supplies. If the ground
plane is to be used for high DC currents, choose a path
away from the small-signal components.
3. Place the CVCC capacitor immediately adjacent to the
INTVCC and GND pins on the IC package. This capaci-
tor carries high di/dt MOSFET gate drive currents. A
low ESR and ESL 4.7µF ceramic capacitor works well
here.
4. The high di/dt loop from the bottom terminal of the
output capacitor, through the power MOSFET, through
the boost diode and back through the output capacitors
should be kept as tight as possible to reduce inductive
ringing. Excess inductance can cause increased stress
on the power MOSFET and increase HF noise on the
output. If low ESR ceramic capacitors are used on the
output to reduce output noise, place these capacitors
close to the boost diode in order to keep the series
inductance to a minimum.
5. Check the stress on the power MOSFET by measuring
its drain-to-source voltage directly across the device
terminals (reference the ground of a single scope probe
directly to the source pad on the PC board). Beware
of inductive ringing which can exceed the maximum
specifi ed voltage rating of the MOSFET. If this ringing
cannot be avoided and exceeds the maximum rating
of the device, either choose a higher voltage device
or specify an avalanche-rated power MOSFET. Not all
MOSFETs are created equal (some are more equal than
others).
6. Place the small-signal components away from high
frequency switching nodes. In the layout shown in
Figure 14, all of the small-signal components have
been placed on one side of the IC and all of the power
components have been placed on the other. This also
allows the use of a pseudo-Kelvin connection for the
signal ground, where high di/dt gate driver currents
ow out of the IC ground pin in one direction (to the
bottom plate of the INTVCC decoupling capacitor) and
small-signal currents fl ow in the other direction.
7. If a sense resistor is used in the source of the power
MOSFET, minimize the capacitance between the SENSE
pin trace and any high frequency switching nodes. The
LTC1871 contains an internal leading edge blanking time
of approximately 180ns, which should be adequate for
most applications.
8. For optimum load regulation and true remote sensing,
the top of the output resistor divider should connect
independently to the top of the output capacitor (Kelvin
connection), staying away from any high dV/dt traces.
Place the divider resistors near the LTC1871 in order
to keep the high impedance FB node short.
9. For applications with multiple switching power convert-
ers connected to the same input supply, make sure
LTC1871
23
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
Figure 14. LTC1871 Boost Converter Suggested Layout
Figure 15. LTC1871 Boost Converter Layout Diagram
LTC1871
M1
VIN
1871 F14
VOUT
SWITCH NODE IS ALSO
THE HEAT SPREADER
FOR L1, M1, D1
L1
RT
RCCC
R3
J1
CIN
COUT
CVCC
R1
R2
PSEUDO-KELVIN
SIGNAL GROUND
CONNECTION
TRUE REMOTE
OUTPUT SENSING
VIAS TO GROUND
PLANE
R4
PIN 1
COUT
BULK C LOW ESR CERAMIC
JUMPER
D1
RUN
ITH
FB
FREQ
MODE/
SYNC
SENSE
VIN
INTVCC
GATE
GND
LTC1871
+
R4
J1
10
9
8
7
6
1
2
3
4
5
CVCC
PSEUDO-KELVIN
GROUND CONNECTION
CIN
M1
D1
L1
VIN
GND
1871 F15
VOUT
SWITCH
NODE
COUT
RC
R1
RT
BOLD LINES INDICATE HIGH CURRENT PATHS
R2
CC
R3
+
LTC1871
24
1871fe
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
that the input fi lter capacitor for the LTC1871 is not
shared with other converters. AC input current from
another converter could cause substantial input voltage
ripple, and this could interfere with the operation of the
LTC1871. A few inches of PC trace or wire (L ≈ 100nH)
between the CIN of the LTC1871 and the actual source
VIN should be suffi cient to prevent current sharing
problems.
SEPIC Converter Applications
The LTC1871 is also well suited to SEPIC (single-ended
primary inductance converter) converter applications. The
SEPIC converter shown in Figure 16 uses two inductors.
The advantage of the SEPIC converter is the input voltage
may be higher or lower than the output voltage, and the
output is short-circuit protected.
Figures 16. SEPIC Topology and Current Flow
+
+
+
SW L2 COUT RL
VOUT
VIN
C1 D1
L1
16a. SEPIC Topology
+
+
+
RL
VOUT
VIN
D1
16c. Current Flow During Switch Off-Time
+
+
+
RL
VOUT
VIN