Key Specs

SpecValueConditionSource
Output TypeTransistor DriverDigi-Key
FunctionStep-Up/Step-DownDigi-Key
Output ConfigurationPositiveDigi-Key
TopologyFlybackDigi-Key
Number Of Outputs1Digi-Key
Output Phases1Digi-Key
Supply Voltage (Typ)9V ~ 18VDigi-Key
Switching Frequency (Typ)Up to 1MHzDigi-Key
Duty Cycle (Max)96%Digi-Key
Synchronous RectifierNoDigi-Key
Clock SyncYesDigi-Key
Serial Interfaces-Digi-Key
Control FeaturesFrequency ControlDigi-Key
Operating Temperature Range-40°C ~ 125°C (TA)Digi-Key
GradeAutomotiveDigi-Key
QualificationAEC-Q100Digi-Key
Mounting TypeSurface MountDigi-Key
Package Case8-SOIC (0.154”, 3.90mm Width)Digi-Key
Supplier Device Package8-SOICDigi-Key

When To Use

  1. 9V to 18V input → 12V @ 4A flyback converter: The 20 V absolute maximum input voltage and ±1 A peak gate drive current enable direct driving of large MOSFETs in isolated or non-isolated flyback topologies up to 1 MHz switching frequency. Using a synchronous buck controller here would fail due to the flyback topology requirements and lack of galvanic isolation capability.

  2. Automotive 12V system with high transient immunity: The AEC-Q100 qualification and ±2 kV HBM ESD rating ensure reliable operation in harsh automotive environments with load-dump and ESD events. A generic low-IQ PFM buck controller would not meet these automotive-grade specifications, risking latch-up or early failure.

  3. High-frequency flyback with optocoupler feedback at 1 MHz: The integrated frequency control and cycle-by-cycle overcurrent limiting with 35 ns response enable precise regulation and protection at switching frequencies up to 1 MHz. A low-frequency buck controller would not handle 1 MHz switching, causing excessive switching losses and thermal runaway.


When Not To Use

  1. Output current demand above 4A continuous: Peak output current capability is ±1 A, which limits the ability to drive external MOSFETs for higher currents. Use a multi-phase buck controller instead to distribute thermal and current stress across multiple phases.

  2. Applications requiring synchronous rectification for efficiency: This part has no synchronous rectifier capability, so diode conduction losses will reduce efficiency in low-voltage, high-current applications. Use a synchronous buck controller to eliminate diode losses.

  3. Battery-powered systems with ultra-low quiescent current requirements: The typical operating current is 2.3 mA and standby current minimum is 50 μA, which is high for battery-powered or coin cell applications. Use a low-IQ PFM buck instead to extend battery life.


Application Notes


Gotchas

  1. [UVLO threshold and supply sequencing]: Assuming the device will start cleanly with any slow rising supply voltage can cause repeated on/off cycling near the 7 V to 15 V range due to hysteresis in the UVLO thresholds. This results in output voltage ripple and increased stress on external components. Fix: Use a supply ramp generator or add a dedicated UVLO supervisor with controlled hysteresis to ensure monotonic startup.

  2. [Feedback loop instability from long, thin PCB traces]: Routing the FB and VREF traces with excessive length or narrow width increases noise susceptibility, causing loop oscillations or erratic regulation under load transients. Fix: Keep feedback traces short and wide; use ground guard traces and place compensation components close to the IC.

  3. [Using low-ESR bulk capacitors only]: Relying solely on ceramic capacitors with very low ESR on the bulk input can cause high-frequency switching noise to reflect as voltage spikes on the input line, triggering false overcurrent trips or damaging MOSFETs. Fix: Include a small amount of ESR in the bulk capacitor bank (e.g., a polymer or tantalum capacitor in parallel) to dampen high-frequency ringing.

  4. [Neglecting minimum off-time at high duty cycles]: Operating near the 96% maximum duty cycle without accounting for minimum off-time and switching transitions can cause the PWM comparator to misfire or the gate driver to saturate, leading to shoot-through or MOSFET overheating. Fix: Verify timing and duty cycle margins during design; implement cycle-by-cycle current limiting and ensure proper gate resistor sizing to maintain clean switching edges.