**LTC3260IDE#PBF: A Comprehensive Overview of the Dual-Output Low Noise Charge Pump and LDO**

The **LTC3260IDE#PBF** from Analog Devices is a highly integrated, dual-output power supply IC that combines a low noise charge pump inverter with a low dropout linear regulator (LDO). This device is engineered to deliver clean, stable power in space-constrained and noise-sensitive applications, making it an exceptional choice for powering operational amplifiers, analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), and other precision circuitry.

**Architecture and Core Functionality**

At its heart, the LTC3260 operates on a simple yet effective principle. The input voltage (ranging from **4.5V to 32V**) is first fed into a regulated charge pump inverter. This charge pump generates a negative output voltage (-VOUT) that is the inverse of a positive regulated voltage. A key feature here is its **programmable switching frequency**, which can be set from 50kHz to 500kHz. This allows designers to optimize the design for efficiency or to avoid critical noise-sensitive frequency bands.

The negative output from the charge pump (-VOUT) then serves as the input supply for the integrated, low noise, positive LDO regulator. This LDO produces a clean, stable positive output voltage that is user-adjustable via an external resistor divider. The ingenious architecture means that both the positive LDO output and the negative charge pump output are inherently matched and track each other, providing a symmetrical dual-rail supply.

**Key Features and Advantages**

* **Low Noise Operation:** The LTC3260 is specifically designed for noise-critical environments. The LDO regulator boasts an impressively **low output noise of just 20μVRMS** (typical from 10Hz to 100kHz), which is crucial for maintaining the integrity of sensitive analog signals.

* **Wide Input Voltage Range:** With an operating range of **4.5V to 32V**, the device is exceptionally versatile, suitable for a wide array of industrial, automotive, and communications systems, including those operating from standard 24V or 12V rails.

* **Dual Tracking Outputs:** It provides both a positive and a negative output, which are symmetrically matched. This eliminates the need for two separate power supply ICs to generate bipolar rails, **significantly saving board space and simplifying design**.

* **High Efficiency and Thermal Performance:** By utilizing a switched-capacitor charge pump followed by an LDO, the solution can be more efficient than a single linear regulator generating a large negative voltage drop. The device is offered in a compact **5mm x 6mm DFN package** with an exposed pad for superior thermal performance.

**Target Applications**

The combination of low noise, wide input range, and dual tracking outputs makes the LTC3260IDE#PBF ideal for a diverse set of applications. These include:

* Powering precision **operational amplifiers and instrumentation amplifiers** requiring bipolar supplies.

* Providing clean analog supply rails for **high-resolution Data Acquisition Systems (DAQ) and ADCs**.

* **Industrial automation and process control systems** where noise immunity is paramount.

* **Test and measurement equipment** and medical instrumentation.

* **Audio amplifiers** and other signal processing chains where a low-noise power source is critical.

**ICGOODFIND**

In summary, the **LTC3260IDE#PBF** stands out as a robust, highly integrated solution for generating low-noise, bipolar power rails from a single wide-input voltage source. Its unique combination of a charge pump and LDO addresses the critical challenges of noise, size, and efficiency in modern analog design, making it an excellent component for engineers focused on signal fidelity and system performance.

**Keywords:**

Low Noise

Dual-Output

Charge Pump

LDO Regulator

Wide Input Voltage