My Inquiry
My Account
Texas Instruments LM3242TM-EV/NOPB
- Part No.:
- LM3242TM-EV/NOPB
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package:
- Datasheet:
-
LM3242TM-EV/NOPB.pdf
- Description:
- EVAL BOARD FOR LM3242
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,187
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
LM3242TM-EV/NOPB from Texas Instruments is a 6-MHz, 750-mA synchronous step-down DC-DC converter optimized for RF power amplifier (PA) biasing in battery-powered mobile devices. It accepts 2.7 V to 5.5 V input, delivers 0.4 V to 3.6 V dynamically adjustable output via analog VCON control (gain = 2.5 V/V), and supports automatic PWM/ECO/Bypass mode transitions - enabling high-efficiency PA operation across transmit power levels in 3G/4G handsets.
For engineers reviewing the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB datasheet, LM3242TM-EV/NOPB pinout, LM3242TM-EV/NOPB application, or LM3242TM-EV/NOPB equivalent, key selection considerations include its 9-bump DSBGA package (1.51 mm × 1.385 mm), 95% peak efficiency at 500 mA, <50 mV dropout in bypass mode, integrated current/thermal protection, and absence of external feedback resistors due to VCON-based output programming.
Technical Context
The LM3242TM-EV/NOPB implements a voltage-mode buck architecture with synchronous rectification using internal PFET and NFET switches. Its 6-MHz fixed-frequency PWM operation minimizes RF interference during medium-to-heavy PA loads, while ECO mode reduces switching frequency and quiescent current (60–80 µA) at light load to extend battery life.
Five functional modes - Shutdown (0.1 µA IQ), Sleep (<80 mV VCON), PWM (750 mA max), ECO (<50 mA load threshold), and Bypass (1 A max, <75 mΩ total path resistance) - are controlled by EN, BPEN, and VCON inputs. Auto-bypass activation occurs when VIN − (2.5 × VCON) falls below 200 mV (typ.) for >10 µs, with hysteresis ensuring stable mode transitions.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 2.7 V to 5.5 V - supports single Li-ion cell operation without under-voltage lockout issues. |
| Output Voltage Range | 0.4 V to 3.6 V - set dynamically via analog VCON pin (VOUT = 2.5 × VCON), eliminating external resistor dividers. |
| Max Load Current | 750 mA in PWM mode; up to 1000 mA in Bypass mode - enables full PA power delivery during peak transmission. |
| Switching Frequency | 6 MHz (typ.) - allows use of ultra-small 0.5 µH chip inductor (0805/2012 case) and minimal ceramic capacitors. |
| Efficiency | 95% (typ.) at 3.9 VIN/3.3 VOUT/500 mA - achieved via synchronous rectification and low RDS(ON) (170 mΩ PFET, 110 mΩ NFET). |
| Bypass Dropout | <50 mV (typ.) - ensures maximum RF output power by minimizing voltage loss between battery and PA supply rail. |
| Quiescent Current | 0.1 µA (typ.) in Shutdown; 60–80 µA in ECO/Sleep - critical for standby battery longevity in always-on mobile devices. |
Pinout & Package
LM3242TM-EV/NOPB uses a lead-free 9-bump DSBGA package (YFQ), measuring 1.51 mm × 1.385 mm with 0.4-mm bump pitch. The package is designed for space-constrained RF front-end layouts and requires precision assembly due to fine-pitch interconnects.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VIN | Power input | Primary supply rail (2.7–5.5 V); connects to battery or system rail; powers internal circuitry and switches. |
| SW | Switching node | Connection point between internal PFET drain and NFET source; drives external inductor; high dv/dt node requiring tight layout. |
| PGND | Power ground | Return path for high-current switch paths (PFET/NFET/BPFET); must be isolated from SGND to minimize noise coupling. |
| SGND | Signal ground | Analog and control reference for FB, VCON, EN, BPEN; requires separate low-impedance connection to PGND at single point. |
| FB | Feedback input / Bypass FET output | Regulation sense point (connected to output capacitor); also serves as BPFET source terminal in bypass mode. |
| VCON | Analog control input | Sets VOUT = 2.5 × VCON; range 0.16–1.44 V maps to 0.4–3.6 V output; also triggers auto-bypass when >VIN/2.5. |
| EN | Digital enable | Active-high logic input (VIH ≥1.2 V); pulls device into Shutdown when low; must not float. |
| BPEN | Bypass enable | Active-high digital input forcing immediate Bypass mode; overrides auto-bypass logic when asserted. |
| NC | No connect | Internally tied to SGND; must remain unconnected on PCB to avoid ground loop or noise injection. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Auto-bypass mode | Activates when VIN − (2.5 × VCON) < 200 mV (typ.) for >10 µs, reducing dropout to <50 mV and maximizing PA output power. |
| VCON-based output programming | Eliminates external feedback resistors; enables dynamic PA voltage scaling via baseband processor DAC output. |
| Synchronous rectification | Integrated NFET replaces Schottky diode, achieving 95% efficiency at 500 mA and reducing thermal load in compact DSBGA package. |
| Multi-mode operation | Five distinct states (Shutdown, Sleep, PWM, ECO, Bypass) automatically selected based on load and VCON, optimizing efficiency across all PA power levels. |
| Integrated protections | Cycle-by-cycle current limit (1450 mA typ.), thermal shutdown (150°C trip), and soft-start prevent inrush damage during power-up. |
Applications
| Battery-Powered 3G/4G RF PAs | Battery-Powered RF Devices |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Mobile handset transmitting at maximum power during weak signal conditions. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Adjustable buck converter supplying precise, dynamically scaled bias voltage to GaAs or SiGe RF power amplifier. Use Value: Enables full PA output power via Bypass mode (≤50 mV dropout) while maintaining 95% efficiency in PWM mode during mid-power transmission. |
Use Scenario: Portable RFID reader or Bluetooth audio transmitter operating from single-cell Li-ion battery. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Compact, low-noise DC-DC regulator delivering stable, programmable supply to RF transceiver IC. Use Value: 6-MHz switching frequency avoids interference with 2.4 GHz ISM band; DSBGA footprint saves board area in handheld form factors. |
| Hand-Held Radios | RF PC Cards |
Use Scenario: Tactical two-way radio requiring extended talk time and burst transmit capability. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-efficiency PA supply with fast transient response to support voice/data bursts. Use Value: Load transient response ≤50 mVpk and 9-µs VOUT settling ensure clean PA bias during rapid power ramp-up/down. |
Use Scenario: Mini-PCIe cellular modem card in ultrabook or IoT gateway. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Space-optimized, thermally efficient power stage for LTE/WCDMA front-end module. Use Value: 1.51 mm × 1.385 mm DSBGA package fits within tight card-edge constraints; thermal resistance (85 °C/W) supports conduction-cooled designs. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar RF PA supply applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS62260DRVR | Fixed-output (1.2 V, 1.5 V, 1.8 V, etc.) or resistor-programmable; no VCON analog interface; 2.25-MHz switching frequency. | Lacks dynamic PA voltage scaling; requires external resistors; lower switching frequency increases inductor size. | Select when fixed output voltage suffices and board space permits larger inductor; not suitable for VCON-controlled PA efficiency optimization. |
| TPS62740DSSR | Ultra-low IQ (360 nA in shutdown, 25 nA in hibernate); 3-MHz switching; supports 1.8–3.3 V output; no bypass mode. | Optimized for ultra-long standby life, not RF PA peak power delivery; no auto-bypass or 1-A capability. | Prefer for sensor nodes or wearables needing nanowatt shutdown; unsuitable for applications requiring <50 mV dropout or 1-A burst current. |
Compared with TPS62260DRVR and TPS62740DSSR, LM3242TM-EV/NOPB uniquely combines VCON-based analog programmability, auto-bypass mode, and 6-MHz operation - making it the only option among the three that delivers both dynamic PA efficiency tuning and minimal dropout during peak transmit events.
Availability
LM3242TM-EV/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered 3G/4G RF PAs, hand-held radios, and RF PC cards requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and consistent DSBGA package availability.
Supply support for LM3242TM-EV/NOPB 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
Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in power management ICs for portable and RF applications.
LM3242TM-EV/NOPB belongs to TI's RF power amplifier DC-DC converter product line, engineered specifically to replace discrete LDOs and inefficient buck converters in mobile handset front-ends - delivering dynamic voltage scaling, ultra-low dropout, and minimal board area consumption.
FAQ
What is the primary function of the VCON pin on the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB?
The VCON pin on the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB is an analog input that directly sets the output voltage according to VOUT = 2.5 × VCON, enabling dynamic PA bias adjustment without external resistors. It also determines auto-bypass activation: when VCON exceeds VIN/2.5, the device enters bypass mode to minimize dropout. This dual role makes VCON central to both efficiency optimization and peak power delivery in the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB.
How does the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB achieve 95% efficiency at 500 mA?
The LM3242TM-EV/NOPB achieves 95% efficiency at 3.9 VIN/3.3 VOUT/500 mA through synchronous rectification (using low-RDS(ON) internal PFET and NFET), a high 6-MHz switching frequency that reduces inductor core losses, and optimized gate drive minimizing switching losses. Its voltage-mode control with input feedforward ensures stable regulation under varying load and line conditions - all contributing to the measured 95% typical efficiency in the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB datasheet.
Can the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB operate without external inductors or capacitors?
No, the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB requires three external passive components: one 0.5 µH chip inductor (0805/2012 case) and two ceramic capacitors (10 µF input, 4.7 µF output). These are mandatory for energy storage, filtering, and stability. The IC integrates all active switches, control logic, and protection circuits - but cannot function without these externally mounted components as specified in the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB typical application circuit.
What is the difference between BPEN and auto-bypass functionality in the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB?
BPEN is a digital input that forces immediate, unconditional bypass mode when driven high, overriding all other controls. Auto-bypass is a feature triggered internally when VIN − (2.5 × VCON) falls below 200 mV (typ.) for longer than 10 µs - allowing seamless, condition-based transition without MCU intervention. Both paths activate the same internal BPFET, but BPEN provides deterministic control while auto-bypass enables autonomous, battery-aware operation in the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB.
Is the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB pin-compatible with other members of the LM324x family?
No, the LM3242TM-EV/NOPB is not pin-compatible with other LM324x variants such as LM3243 or LM3245. While sharing functional similarities (e.g., VCON control, bypass mode), each part has distinct pin assignments, package types (e.g., LM3243 uses 12-bump DSBGA), and internal feature sets. The LM3242TM-EV/NOPB's 9-pin YFQ DSBGA layout - including NC placement and dedicated SGND/PGND separation - is unique to this specific device and must be verified against its official pin configuration diagram.
LM3242TM-EV/NOPB Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Main Purpose:
- DC/DC, Step Down
- Outputs and Type:
- 1 Non-Isolated Output
- Voltage - Output:
- -
- Current - Output:
- 0.4V ~ 3.6V
- Voltage - Input:
- 750mA
- Regulator Topology:
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Frequency - Switching:
- Buck
- Contents:
- 6MHz
- Utilized IC / Part:
- Board(s)
- Power - Output:
- LM3242
LM3242TM-EV/NOPB FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LM3242TM-EV/NOPB through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LM3242TM-EV/NOPB 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 LM3242TM-EV/NOPB reliable?
The price and inventory of LM3242TM-EV/NOPB are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LM3242TM-EV/NOPB is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LM3242TM-EV/NOPB?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LM3242TM-EV/NOPB transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LM3242TM-EV/NOPB?
LM3242TM-EV/NOPB orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LM3242TM-EV/NOPB 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 LM3242TM-EV/NOPB?
For technical support, including LM3242TM-EV/NOPB datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LM3242TM-EV/NOPB requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LM3242TM-EV/NOPB is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LM3242TM-EV/NOPB 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 LM3242TM-EV/NOPB meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LM3242TM-EV/NOPB?
All LM3242TM-EV/NOPB units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LM3242TM-EV/NOPB, 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 LM3242TM-EV/NOPB part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LM3242TM-EV/NOPB:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
LM3242TM-EV/NOPB Tags
-
DFR0571
DFRobot
-
DFR0379
DFRobot
-
DFR0205
DFRobot
-
1385
Adafruit Industries LLC
-
COM-15208
SparkFun Electronics
-
1944
Adafruit Industries LLC
-
2465
Adafruit Industries LLC
-
DC2468A
Analog Devices Inc.
-
DC2841A
Analog Devices Inc.
-
TPS552892EVM-111
Texas Instruments
-
TPS55289EVM-093
Texas Instruments
-
EPC9158
EPC
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…
