My Inquiry
My Account
STMicroelectronics A6986F
- Part No.:
- A6986F
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Package:
- 16-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
A6986F.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ 2A 16HTSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,515
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
A6986F from STMicroelectronics is an AEC-Q100 qualified automotive synchronous step-down switching regulator delivering 1.5 A DC output current, operating from 4 V to 38 V input, with 30 µA quiescent current in Low Consumption Mode (LCM) at 3.3 V output - designed for cold-crank–tolerant power rails in car body control modules and low-noise car audio systems.
For engineers reviewing the A6986F datasheet, A6986F pinout, A6986F application, or A6986F equivalent, key selection criteria include LCM/LNM mode selection via MLF pinstrapping, adjustable soft-start timing, embedded output voltage supervisor with programmable RST delay, and peak-current-mode control architecture with integrated high-side (180 mΩ) and low-side (150 mΩ) MOSFETs.
Technical Context
The A6986F implements a peak-current-mode control architecture with pulse-by-pulse current sensing on both high-side and low-side switches, enabling robust constant-current protection and foldback during heavy short-circuit events. Its internal sawtooth oscillator supports adjustable switching frequency from 250 kHz to 2 MHz via FSW pinstrapping.
Two distinct operational modes are hardware-configured: Low Noise Mode (LNM) enforces fixed-frequency PWM for minimal output ripple in audio-sensitive applications, while Low Consumption Mode (LCM) enables variable-frequency operation to maximize light-load efficiency - both selectable via MLF pin biasing before soft-start.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 4 V to 38 V - meets automotive cold-crank (down to 4 V) and load-dump (up to 38 V) requirements without external protection. |
| Output Current | 1.5 A DC - sustained continuous output current capability with internal thermal shutdown at 165 °C. |
| Quiescent Current (LCM) | 30 µA at light load (VOUT = 3.3 V) - enables always-on functionality in parked-car battery-powered systems. |
| Shutdown Current | 8 µA typical - minimizes battery drain when inhibited via SS/INH pin. |
| Switching Frequency | 250 kHz – 2 MHz - adjustable via resistor divider on FSW pin; supports EMI optimization and compact magnetics. |
| Output Voltage Options | Fixed 3.3 V or 5 V, or adjustable from 0.85 V to VIN - enables flexible rail generation for microcontrollers, sensors, and analog ICs. |
| RDS(on) HS / LS | 180 mΩ / 150 mΩ - integrated P-channel high-side and N-channel low-side MOSFETs reduce conduction losses and external component count. |
Pinout & Package
Package: HTSSOP16 (exposed pad), thermal resistance RthJA = 40 °C/W (on ST demo board).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 RST | Open-collector reset output | Asserts low when VOUT falls below programmable threshold; delay set by external capacitor on DELAY pin for sequenced power-up. |
| 2 VCC | Internal analog supply | Powers internal reference and error amplifier; requires ≥470 nF ceramic capacitor to GND for stability. |
| 3 SS/INH | Soft-start / inhibit control | Pulled low to disable regulator; internal 4 µA current source charges external capacitor to control ramp time. |
| 4 SYNCH/ISKP | Sync input / skip level select | In LNM: accepts external clock for master/slave synchronization; in LCM: selects skip current threshold via voltage level. |
| 5 FSW | Frequency selection | Resistor divider to VCC/GND sets switching frequency before soft-start; supports 250 kHz–2 MHz range. |
| 6 MLF | Mode and RST threshold select | Configures LNM vs. LCM operation and sets RST active threshold (e.g., 93% of VOUT for A6986F3V3). |
| 7 COMP | Error amplifier output | Connects external compensation network (R-C-RC) to stabilize loop response per application load/transient needs. |
| 8 DELAY | RST assertion delay timing | External capacitor sets delay between VOUT crossing threshold and RST deassertion - enables precise sequencing. |
| 9 VOUT | Feedback sense node | Monitors regulated output; connects to internal error amplifier via internal or external resistive divider. |
| 10 SGND | Signal ground reference | Reference for analog circuitry; must be separated from PGND in layout to avoid noise coupling into feedback path. |
| 11–12 PGND | Power ground return | High-current return path for LX switching node; connected to exposed pad for thermal and EMI performance. |
| 13–14 LX | Switching node | Drives external inductor; requires low-inductance layout and ceramic output capacitor close to pins 13/14 and PGND. |
| 15 VIN | Main input supply | Accepts 4–38 V DC; requires bulk and high-frequency input capacitors near VIN and PGND to suppress ripple and transients. |
| 16 VBIAS | Switchover auxiliary supply | Connects to regulated output to reduce quiescent current consumption in LCM; floats or ties to GND if unused. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Embedded output voltage supervisor | Programmable RST threshold (80–96% of VOUT) with adjustable delay enables reliable µC/FPGA reset and multi-rail sequencing. |
| Peak-current-mode architecture | Real-time pulse-by-pulse current sensing on both HS/LS switches delivers fast overcurrent response and foldback protection under short-circuit. |
| Low Noise Mode (LNM) | Fixed-frequency PWM operation minimizes output voltage ripple across full load range - validated for car audio subsystems. |
| Low Consumption Mode (LCM) | Variable-frequency discontinuous conduction mode reduces switching losses at light loads, achieving 30 µA IQ for parking-mode operation. |
| 100% duty cycle capability | Enables dropout operation down to VOUT + ~0.3 V (due to RDS(on) drop), critical for cold-crank survival below 6 V input. |
Applications
| Body Control Module (BCM) | Car Audio Power Supply |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Centralized power management for door locks, lighting, and window controls in modern vehicle architectures. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary 3.3 V/5 V buck regulator supplying microcontroller, CAN transceivers, and sensor interfaces. Use Value: Cold-crank tolerance (4 V min) ensures uninterrupted operation during engine start; LCM mode extends battery life during vehicle sleep. |
Use Scenario: Clean, low-ripple power for DSPs, DACs, and amplifiers in premium infotainment head units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary regulated rail generator operating in LNM to suppress switching noise in analog signal paths. Use Value: Fixed-frequency PWM and optimized EMI filtering enable <10 mVpp output ripple at full load - meeting OEM audio noise specifications. |
| ADAS Camera Module | Telematics Control Unit (TCU) |
|
Use Scenario: Powering image sensors and ISP processors in rear-view and surround-view camera systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Adjustable-output (0.85–VIN) buck stage generating 1.2 V core and 1.8 V I/O rails with tight load regulation. Use Value: Embedded voltage supervisor sequences power-up to prevent latch-up; thermal shutdown protects against enclosure overheating. |
Use Scenario: Always-on power domain for LTE/V2X modems and GNSS receivers requiring ultra-low standby current. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary 3.3 V supply with switchover (VBIAS) and 8 µA shutdown current for cellular modem sleep states. Use Value: 30 µA LCM quiescent current enables >1-year battery backup in disconnected TCU configurations without parasitic drain. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous step-down regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MPQ4420AGL-A | 2 A output, 3.3–36 V input, 25 µA IQ, no integrated supervisor or RST pin | Lacks voltage sequencing and reset supervision - requires external monitoring IC for µC reset | Preferred where higher current and lower IQ are prioritized over integrated power management features |
| TPS54560QDGQRQ1 | 5 A output, 3.5–60 V input, 14 µA IQ, adjustable soft-start but no LNM/LCM mode selection | Fixed PWM only; no low-noise mode - unsuitable for audio-sensitive designs | Chosen when wide VIN range and high current are mandatory, and noise performance is secondary |
Compared with MPQ4420AGL-A and TPS54560QDGQRQ1, the A6986F uniquely integrates LNM/LCM mode selection, programmable RST with delay, and switchover capability - making it optimal for automotive subsystems requiring both ultra-low standby power and low-noise operation in a single package.
Availability
A6986F is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, telematics control units, ADAS camera modules, and car audio subsystems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and qualification lifecycles.
Supply support for A6986F includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, specializing in automotive-grade, industrial, and power management ICs with broad AEC-Q100 product coverage.
The A6986F belongs to ST's automotive power conversion portfolio, engineered specifically for demanding 12 V/24 V vehicle electrical systems requiring cold-crank resilience, low EMI, and functional safety–ready supervision features.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the VBIAS pin on the A6986F?
The VBIAS pin enables switchover functionality: when connected to a regulated output voltage (e.g., 3.3 V or 5 V), it powers part of the internal analog circuitry, reducing total quiescent current from VIN in Low Consumption Mode. If unused, VBIAS must be tied to GND to avoid undefined behavior - floating is not permitted.
How does the A6986F achieve 30 µA quiescent current in LCM mode?
The 30 µA figure is measured at light load (VOUT = 3.3 V) with VBIAS connected to the output and switchover enabled. It results from discontinuous conduction mode operation, reduced gate drive frequency, and internal circuitry powered from VBIAS instead of VIN - verified per datasheet conditions in Table 5 (IQ_OPVIN, LCM-SWO).
Can the A6986F be synchronized to an external clock in Low Noise Mode?
Yes - in LNM, the SYNCH/ISKP pin accepts an external clock signal (266.5 kHz minimum) to synchronize multiple A6986F devices or align switching with system clocks. The device operates as a slave; master clock must meet voltage thresholds (0.7–1.2 V rising edge) and sink capability (0.7 mA max).
What is the maximum recommended PCB copper area for the exposed pad of the HTSSOP16 package?
ST recommends connecting the exposed pad directly to a solid SGND/PGND plane with ≥4 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter, 0.8 mm pitch) to achieve the specified RthJA = 40 °C/W. No maximum copper area is defined, but excessive isolation or undersized thermal relief compromises thermal performance and may trigger early thermal shutdown under 1.5 A load.
A6986F Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 4V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 38V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 0.85V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 38V
- Current - Output:
- 2A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 225kHz ~ 2.2MHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q100
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-HTSSOP
A6986F FAQ
1.How can I place an order for A6986F through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for A6986F on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for A6986F reliable?
The price and inventory of A6986F are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for A6986F is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for A6986F?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for A6986F transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for A6986F?
A6986F orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your A6986F order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for A6986F?
For technical support, including A6986F datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your A6986F requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that A6986F is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All A6986F products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that A6986F meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of A6986F?
All A6986F units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with A6986F, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The A6986F part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for A6986F:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
A6986F Tags
-
TPS562201DDCR
Texas Instruments
-
MC34063ABD-TR
STMicroelectronics
-
TPS561201DDCR
Texas Instruments
-
MC33063ADR
Texas Instruments
-
MC34063ADR
Texas Instruments
-
TPS560200DBVR
Texas Instruments
-
AP3012KTR-G1
Diodes Incorporated
-
TLV61048DBVR
Texas Instruments
-
AZ34063UMTR-G1
Diodes Incorporated
-
TPS562200DDCR
Texas Instruments
-
AP62300TWU-7
Diodes Incorporated
-
MC34063EBD-TR
STMicroelectronics
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…
