LTC3780 Sync Buck-Boost Controller

Overview

The LTC3780 is a high-efficiency switching regulator controller for building a non-isolated buck-boost power supply. It can regulate output voltage above, below, or equal to the input voltage using an external power stage. The sync, 4-switch architecture is well suited to systems that must keep a stable rail across a wide input range.

Why Choose This Part

The main advantage is one converter topology that handles step-down and step-up operation in a single stage, which simplifies power-tree design. Synchronous 4-switch operation is a practical choice when efficiency matters and the input voltage can cross the output voltage. Using an external power stage also gives designers flexibility to scale current capability and thermal performance to the application.

Applications

Getting Started

This is a controller IC, so it is typically used on a custom power board rather than a dev kit. Start from the Analog Devices/LTC datasheet and reference schematic, then select MOSFETs, inductors, current-sense components, and compensation values around your input, output, and load requirements. For bench bring-up, use a current-limited DC supply and verify switching waveforms, loop stability, and thermal performance before connecting the final load.

LTC3780EG Family