The LTC1736 is a synchronous step-down switching regulator controller optimized for CPU power. The output voltage is programmed by a 5-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) that adjusts the output voltage from 0.925V to 2.00V according to Intel mobile VID specifications. The 0.8V reference is compatible with future microprocessor generations.The operating frequency (synchronizable up to 500kHz) is set by an external capacitor allowing maximum flexibility in optimizing efficiency. The output voltage is monitored by a power good window comparator that indicates when the output is within 7.5% of its programmed value.Protection features include: internal foldback current limiting, output overvoltage crowbar and optional short-circuit shutdown. Soft-start is provided by an external capacitor that can be used to properly sequence supplies. The operating current level is user-programmable via an external current sense resistor. Wide input supply range allows operation from 3.5V to 30V (36V maximum).Pin defeatable Burst Mode™operation provides high efficiency at low load currents. OPTI-LOOP compensation allows the transient response to be optimized over a wide range of output capacitance and ESR values.ApplicationsNotebook and Palmtop Computers, PDAsPower Supply for Mobile Pentium®II and Pentium III ProcessorsLow Voltage Power Supplies