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LTM4632 Parallel (VDDQ+VTT) Operation in Burst Mode

Category: Hardware
Product Number: LTM4632

Hello,

I am trying to configure two separate LTM4632s in parallel (configured as VDDQ + VTT) as shown in Figure 22, but instead of tying the SYMC/MODE pins to a phasing chip, I have them tied to their respective INTVCCs to put them in burst mode.

I am wondering if there is any reason this configuration would not work? At load loads, it does appear as one might expect in DCM, but at higher loads (like 5A total on VDDQ, for example), I start to see some sort of very low amplitude (5mVpp) oscillation with a frequency in the 10s of kHz range. This ripple is the same magnitude of the actual switching ripple, so it's not a major issue, however, I wanted to ask to make sure this configuration doesn't have any known issues that might show up at other operating points across input voltage, output current, and temperature.

Thanks,

Nino

  • Hello, Burst Mode only affects Channel 1, so you won't be getting any of the efficiency benefits out of that switching mode for Channel 2. Additionally, at heavier loads when the devices are in continuous switching mode, there could be situations where one device's top FET is on while the other's bottom FET is on, causing a short from VIN to GND. Therefore, it's recommended to use an external oscillator to properly synchronize the two parts with enough phase separation.

  • Hello  ,

    Thank you for your response. I missed that burst mode only affects channel 1! Does that mean channel 2 is always in continuous conduction mode, not matter what?

    There are inductors on the output of both half bridges, so I don't think there is any concern of shoot through from one bridge to another.

  • I believe that channel 2 is always in forced continuous mode, but I'll have to double check. While there are inductors in between your FETs, your efficiency will suffer, and you'll keep seeing that ripple unless you synchronize the two devices 180 degrees out of phase.

  • Hello  , 

    Thanks. Let me know what you find out about the default operating mode of channel 2. 

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