LINEAR TECHNOLOGY LTC3448 User's Manual
Summary
The LTC3448 is a high-efficiency, synchronous step-down regulator perfect for advanced portable electronics applications. This component features automatic low-dropout linear mode (LDO), ultra-low quiescent current (<1µA), and selectable switching frequencies (1.5MHz or 2.25MHz). It maintains stable power regulation across a 2.5V to 5.5V input range, eliminating the need for external Schottky diodes. Ideal for battery-powered devices such as cellular phones, MP3 players, and digital cameras that require maximum efficiency and minimal quiescent current draw.
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LTC3448
1.5MHz/2.25MHz, 600m A
POW ER LOSS (W
Synchronous Step-Down Regulator with LDO Mode
FEATURES DESCRIPTIO High Efficiency: Up to 96% The LTC®3448 is a high efficiency, monolithic, synchronous Very Low Quiescent Supply Current: 32µA During buck regulator using a constant frequency, current mode Linear Regulator Operation architecture. Supply current during operation is only 32µA 600m A Output Current (Buck Converter) (linear regulator mode) and drops to <1µA in shutdown. The Optionally Operates as Linear Regulator Below 2.5V to 5.5V input voltage range makes the LTC3448 ide- 3m A—External or Automatic ON/OFF ally suited for single Li-Ion battery-powered applications. 2.5V to 5.5V Input Voltage Range 100% duty cycle provides low dropout operation, extend- 1.5MHz or 2.25MHz Constant Frequency Operation ing battery life in portable systems. At moderate output load or External Synchronization levels, PWM pulse skipping mode operation provides very No Schottky Diode Required low output ripple voltage for noise sensitive applications. Low Dropout Operation: 100% Duty Cycle
The LTC3448 automatically switches into linear regulator
0.6V Reference Allows Low Output Voltages
operation at very low load currents to maintain <5m VP-P
Shutdown Mode Draws < 1µA Supply Current
output voltage ripple. Supply current in this mode is
Current Mode Operation for Excellent Line and
typically 32µA. The switch to linear regulator mode occurs
Load Transient Response
EF FI CI EN CY at a threshold of 3m A. Linear regulator operation can be set
Overtemperature Protected
to on, off or automatic turn on/off.
Low Profile (3mm × 3mm) 8-Lead DFN and 8-Lead MSOP Packages Switching frequency is selectable at either 1.5MHz or
2.25MHz, allowing the use of small surface mount induc-
APPLICATIO S
tors and capacitors.
Cellular Telephones The internal synchronous switch increases efficiency and Personal Information Appliances eliminates the need for an external Schottky diode. Low Wireless and DSL Modems output voltages are easily supported with the 0.6V feed- Digital Still Cameras back reference voltage. The LTC3448 is available in a low MP3 Players profile 3mm × 3mm DFN package or thermally enhanced Portable Instruments 8-lead MSOP. , LTC and LT are registered trademarks of Linear Technology Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Protected by U.S. Patents including 5481178, 6580258, 6304066, 6127815, 6498466, 6611131. Others pending.
Efficiency and Power Loss vs Load Current
TYPICAL APPLICATIO
VIN = 3.6V VOUT = 1.5V
1.5V High Efficiency Regulator with Automatic LDO Mode TA = 25°C
2.2µH EFFICIENCY
VIN VOUT
VIN SW
2.5V TO 5.5V 1.5V POWER LOSS
CIN RUN VOUT COUT 0.01 4.7µF 4.7µF
LTC3448
MODE FREQ VFB
SYNC 316k GND
3448 TA01a 0.0001 0.001 0.01 0.1
LOAD CURRENT (A) 23448 TA01b
Page Summary Contents For LINEAR TECHNOLOGY LTC3448 User's Manual
Manual Details
| Brand | Linear |
|---|---|
| Pages | 20 |
| File Size | 273.60 KB |
| Published | May 30, 2026 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the supply current when the LTC3448 unit is in shutdown mode?
The supply current draws less than 1µA.
Can this regulator function as a linear regulator, and if so, what are its operating parameters?
Yes, it automatically switches into linear regulator mode when the load drops below 3mA, and can operate between 2.5V to 5.5V.
Are external components required for proper operation?
No external Schottky diode is required due to the internal synchronous switch.
What are the selectable switching frequencies available on the LTC3448?
It can select between 1.5MHz or 2.25MHz constant frequency operation.