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LTC4381: Long Soft-Start / Turn-On Time

Category: Datasheet/Specs
Product Number: LTC4381

Hello,

I’m using the LTC4381 and I’m seeing a relatively long soft-start / turn-on time that seems to be dominated by the recommended GATE network.

In the datasheet, the GATE pin is shown with a minimum of C2 = 47 nF (to GND) and a 33 Ω series resistor. With these values, my measured turn-on time is approximately ~70 ms, which is too slow for my system (I’m targeting around ~10 ms).

Questions

  1. If I reduce C2 below 47 nF and/or change the 33 Ω resistor, what are the expected downsides?

    • Is the concern loop stability (e.g., current-limit amplifier oscillation), increased inrush current, ringing/EMI, or something else?

    • Are there typical symptoms/waveforms that indicate it has become unstable?

  2. Are there ADI-recommended ways to shorten turn-on time while keeping the circuit stable and protected?
    For example:

    • Alternate GATE RC arrangements (split capacitors, asymmetrical charge/discharge paths with a diode + resistor, etc.)

    • Any other supported approach that preserves current limiting / protection behavior

  3. If the long turn-on is fundamentally limited by the LTC4381’s GATE pull-up capability, is there an alternative part you’d recommend for a similar function but with a faster turn-on requirement?

Thanks in advance for any guidance.

Best regards,
Hüseyin

  • hey,
    did you got an answer for your question? 
    i have the same problem and i want to know if there is a conclusion.

  • Hey, unfortunately, I never received a direct answer to my question. In the end, I decided to follow the datasheet recommendations and not modify the GATE network beyond the specified values. Since the resulting turn-on time did not meet my system requirements, I chose a different IC for my design.

    If your application has a similar turn-on-time requirement, you may also need to consider another device. I’m not sure whether it is appropriate to recommend a part from another manufacturer here, but I ended up using the TPS16630RGET from Texas Instruments.

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