Simple Power Supply Tracking Controller Suited to Distributed POL Applications

The LTC2927 from Linear Technology Corp. is a single power supply tracking controller that simplifies the tracking and sequencing requirements of complex distributed power architectures. Housed in an 8-lead SOT-23 or 3-mm × 2-mm DFN package, the compact device can be conveniently placed at the point of load. By minimizing the trace length to the sensitive feedback node of a dc-dc converter, the LTC2927 effectively reduces losses caused by voltage drops and overcomes noise sensitivity and EMI issues.

The LTC2927 introduces current into the feedback node of an independent supply and causes its output to track another supply or master signal. The LTC2927 does not affect the stability or transient response of the connected supply because the injected current is governed by an open-loop control mechanism. A simple resistor configuration yields a ramp-up and ramp-down with differing ramp rates, voltage offsets or time delays relative to the master signal. This enables a variety of power (supply) profiles for digital logic circuits during power up as well as power down. Thus, the LTC2927 is suitable for systems using FPGAs, CPLDs or DSPs.

Specified over the commercial and industrial temperature grades, the LTC2927 is available from stock. Pricing begins at $1.55 each for 1000-piece quantities.