Linear Technology DC1379B - LTM8025EV Demo Board | 36Vin , 3A Step Down μModule Converter DC1379B DC1379B Data Sheet

Product codes
DC1379B
Page of 22
LTM8025
10
8025fc
For more information 
www.linear.com/LTM8025
applicaTions inForMaTion
For most applications, the design process is straight 
forward, summarized as follows: 
1. Look at Table 1 and find the row that has the desired 
input range and output voltage.
2. Apply the recommended C
IN
, C
OUT
, R
ADJ
 and R
T
 values.
3. Connect BIAS as indicated.
While these component combinations have been tested 
for proper operation, it is incumbent upon the user to 
verify proper operation over the intended system’s line, 
load and environmental conditions. Bear in mind that the 
maximum output current is limited by junction tempera-
turetemperature, the relationship between the input and 
output voltage magnitude and polarity and other factors. 
Please refer to the graphs in the Typical Performance 
Characteristics section for guidance.
The maximum frequency (and attendant R
T
 value) at 
which the LTM8025 should be allowed to switch is given 
in Table 1 in the f
MAX
 column, while the recommended 
frequency (and R
T
 value) for optimal efficiency over the 
given input condition is given in the f
OPTIMAL
 column. 
There are additional conditions that must be satisfied if 
the synchronization function is used. Please refer to the 
Synchronization section for details.
Capacitor Selection Considerations
The C
IN
 and C
OUT
 capacitor values in Table 1 are the 
minimum recommended values for the associated oper-
ating conditions. Applying capacitor values below those 
indicated in Table 1 is not recommended, and may result 
in undesirable operation. Using larger values is generally 
acceptable, and can yield improved dynamic response, if 
it is necessary. Again, it is incumbent upon the user to 
verify proper operation over the intended system’s line, 
load and environmental conditions.
Ceramic capacitors are small, robust and have very low 
ESR. However, not all ceramic capacitors are suitable. 
X5R and X7R types are stable over temperature and ap-
plied voltage and give dependable service. Other types, 
including Y5V and Z5U have very large temperature and 
voltage coefficients of capacitance. In an application cir-
cuit they may have only a small fraction of their nominal 
capacitance resulting in much higher output voltage ripple 
than expected.
Ceramic capacitors are also piezoelectric. In Burst Mode 
operation, the LTM8025’s switching frequency depends 
on the load current, and can excite a ceramic capacitor 
at audio frequencies, generating audible noise. Since the 
LTM8025 operates at a lower current limit during Burst 
Mode operation, the noise is typically very quiet to a 
casual ear.
If this audible noise is unacceptable, use a high perfor-
mance electrolytic capacitor at the output. It may also be 
a parallel combination of a ceramic capacitor and a low 
cost electrolytic capacitor.
A final precaution regarding ceramic capacitors concerns 
the maximum input voltage rating of the LTM8025. A 
ceramic input capacitor combined with trace or cable 
inductance forms a high Q (under damped) tank circuit. 
If the LTM8025 circuit is plugged into a live supply, the 
input voltage can ring to twice its nominal value, possi-
bly exceeding the device’s rating. This situation is easily 
avoided; see the Hot-Plugging Safely section.
Frequency Selection
The LTM8025 uses a constant frequency PWM architecture 
that can be programmed to switch from 200kHz to 2.4MHz 
by using a resistor tied from the RT pin to ground. Table 2 
provides a list of R
T
 resistor values and their resultant 
frequencies.