Step-down charge pump provides regulated output with input current doubling
In applications where the input voltage exceeds twice the output voltage, a charge pump offers nearly twice the efficiency of an equivalent linear regulator, and provides a space-saving inductor-free alternative to switching DC/DC regulators.
The LTC3255 produces a regulated output (2.4 V to 12.5 V adjustable) from a wide 4 V to 48 V input that is +60 V/-52 V tolerant. At no load, Burst Mode operation reduces VIN quiescent current to 16 µA, and 2:1 capacitive charge pumping extends output current capability to approximately twice the input current. The LTC3255 is well suited for a variety of applications such as industrial control, factory automation, sensors and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, housekeeping power supplies, plus current-boosting voltage regulators for 4 mA to 20 mA current loops.
The LTC3255 operates either as a general purpose step-down charge pump with 2:1 or 1:1 conversion ratios, or it can operate as a current doubling shunt regulator. In normal mode, the conversion ratio is chosen based on VIN, VOUT, and load conditions, and switching between conversion modes is automatic. In shunt mode, the device is forced into 2:1 mode, enabling the LTC3255 to provide a regulated output voltage from a current source input with nearly two times the input current available at the load. For example, this feature enables a 4mA current loop to power a 7.4 mA load continuously with a 3.3 V regulated output voltage. The LTC3255 withstands reverse-polarity input supplies down to -52V and output short-circuit without damage. Safety features, including an output current limit and over-temperature protection further enhance robustness.
Availability and Pricing
The LTC3255 is available in a low-profile (0.75 mm) 3 mm x 3 mm 10-lead DFN and a 10-lead MSOP package, both with a backside metal pad for enhanced thermal performance. The E- and I-grade operating junction temperature is -40°C to +125°C. The H grade offers -40°C to +150°C operation and the high reliability MP grade is specified from -55°C to +150°C. 1000-piece pricing for the E grade starts at $2.30 each, and devices are available from stock.
More information about the LTC3255 at www.linear.com/product/LTC3255
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