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Multiphase Operation / External Clock possible?

Thread Summary

The user inquired about operating two LT4295 devices with a 180° phase shift to parallel their power outputs. The final answer indicates that the LT4295 lacks built-in support for synchronization or multi-phase operation, suggesting the MAX5974 or MAX15159 as alternatives. The MAX5974 has a SYNC pin but requires an external clock for phase shifting, while the MAX15159 supports multi-phase operation and is demonstrated in a dual-phase flyback converter design. If the goal is to exceed IEEE 802.3bt limits, using two separate LT4295 stages with load balancing via the LTC4370 or the MAX5996C PD controller is recommended.
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Category: Hardware
Product Number: LT4295

Is it possible to operate two LT4295 with 180° phase-shift so that two power outputs can be paralleled (for higher power)? If not, is there another controller that is capable of doing this? May be a combination with a PoE Controller and Flyback/Forward controller?

  • Hello, the LT4295 does not have built in support for phase shift and current sharing. You can check this article for another approach Design Note 425: High Power PoE PD Interface with Integrated Flyback Controller | Analog Devices. At the outputs you can use current sharing controllers such as LTC4370 , LTC4350, etc.

  • Hello,

    As Tonie mentioned, the LT4295 doesn't have built in support for synchronization or multi-phase operation I recommend you look at either the MAX5974 or the MAX15159. These are standalone DC-DC converters that can be paired with the LT4294 or MAX5995C IEEE 802.3bt PoE PD interface. The MAX5974 has a SYNC pin but would require a separate clock source for the 180 degree phase shift. The MAX15159 is a multi-phase converter and its evaluation kit (MAX15159EVKIT) demonstrates a dual-phase flyback converter design.

    It all depends on why you want two LT4295s. If you are trying to combine power to exceed with IEEE 802.3bt limits, then you are better off with two separate LT4295's stages and load balance with the LTC4370 Tonie mentioned. Either that or look into the MAX5996C PD controller (also on the MAX15159EVKIT) which allows multiple inputs to drop share. If you're trying to do something else, please let us know.

    Best Regards,

    Eric

  • Especially when galvanic isolation between the inputs must be maintained, a multiphase solution could be more problematic than balancing afterwards; I hadn't really thought this through. Otherwise, the synchronization signals would have to be galvanically isolated. This would require a corresponding clock generator, digital isolator and two extra power supplies. Otherwise I would prefer the solution with the MAX15159.