Texas Instruments LM3253TME/NOPB
- Part No.:
- LM3253TME/NOPB
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Special Purpose Regulators
- Package:
- 16-WFBGA, DSBGA
- Datasheet:
-
LM3253TME/NOPB.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG CONV RF PWR 1OUT 16DSBGA
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
LM3253TME/NOPB from Texas Instruments is a high-current synchronous step-down DC-DC converter optimized for powering 2G/3G/4G RF power amplifiers from a single Li-ion cell (2.7V–5.5V input). It delivers dynamically adjustable output voltage (0.4V–3.6V) with up to 3A load current in PWM mode, 2.7MHz switching frequency, and integrated Active Current assist & Analog Bypass (ACB) enabling low-dropout operation with 45 mΩ total dropout resistance.
For engineers reviewing the LM3253TME/NOPB datasheet, LM3253TME/NOPB pinout, LM3253TME/NOPB application, or LM3253TME/NOPB equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed ACB behavior, real-world efficiency curves at 1A–3A loads, and precise PFM/PWM mode transition thresholds - all critical for RF PA power rail design in USB datacards and cellular handsets.
Technical Context
The LM3253TME/NOPB implements a constant-frequency PWM architecture with automatic PFM fallback below 75 mA load, enabling <93% efficiency at 250 mA (VOUT=2.5V) and >89% at 10 mA (VOUT=1.8V). Its ACB circuit activates at ~1.9A steady-state inductor current to supply supplemental current via parallel analog path, maintaining regulation while limiting peak inductor size.
It uses internal synchronous rectification with PFET/NFET switches, supports analog VCON-based output programming (2.5× gain), and features modulated switching frequency for Rx-band EMI compliance. Bypass mode is triggered either automatically (BP = LOW) or forced (BP = HIGH), with full 100% duty-cycle operation when dropout conditions exceed Rtot_drop = 45 mΩ.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 2.7V to 5.5V - supports full discharge curve of single Li-ion cell without external LDO pre-regulation. |
| Max Output Current (PWM) | 3.0A - sustained load capability with thermal shutdown protection at TJ = 150°C. |
| Output Voltage Range | 0.4V to 3.6V - dynamically set by 0.16V–1.44V analog VCON input with 2.5× gain. |
| Switching Frequency | 2.7 MHz (typ.) - enables use of 1.5 µH inductor and compact 0402/0201 MLCCs. |
| ACB Dropout Resistance | 45 mΩ (typ.) - enables analog bypass operation with minimal headroom loss under heavy load. |
| PFM Threshold Current | 75 mA (typ.) - automatic transition from PWM to PFM for ultra-low Iq (260 µA) at light loads. |
| Shutdown Current | 0.02 µA (typ.) - EN-controlled deep-sleep state for battery longevity in idle modes. |
Pinout & Package
LM3253TME/NOPB uses a 2 mm × 2 mm, 0.4 mm pitch, 16-bump Thin DSBGA package (YFQ) with bottom-side solder balls. Thermal pad is not exposed; BGND and PGND are separate high-current and signal ground terminals.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| A1, B1, C1, D1 | PGND / SGND / VDD | Power ground (A1), signal ground (B1/C1), analog supply (D1) - decoupling VDD with 1 µF near pin is mandatory. |
| A2, B2, C2, D2 | SW / EN / VCON / PVIN | Switch node (A2) connects to 1.5 µH inductor; EN (B2) has 800 kΩ pulldown; VCON (C2) sets VOUT = 2.5 × VCON; PVIN (D2) powers PFET and ACB. |
| A3, B3, C3, D3 | PVIN / BP / MODE / FB | Dual PVIN pins (A3/D3) reduce IR drop; BP (B3) forces bypass; MODE (C3) selects PFM/PWM auto-switch or PWM-only; FB (D3) closes regulation loop at output capacitor. |
| A4, B4, C4, D4 | ACB / BGND / BGND / FB | ACB (A4) connects directly to output filter capacitor anode; dual BGND (B4/C4) carry high-current ACB return; second FB (D4) improves noise immunity in layout. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Active Current Assist & Analog Bypass (ACB) | Supplies up to 1.7A additional current beyond 1.9A switcher limit, enabling 3A total with 1.5 µH inductor and eliminating need for oversized magnetics. |
| Dynamically Adjustable Output | VCON input (0.16V–1.44V) sets VOUT from 0.4V to 3.6V with ±3% linearity - matches 3GPP PA envelope tracking requirements. |
| Modulated Switching Frequency | Frequency shifts during load transients to suppress Rx-band emissions - meets ECTEL spectral mask for EDGE/GMSK without added shielding. |
| Analog Bypass Function | 45 mΩ dropout resistance allows direct PVIN-to-VOUT conduction below dropout, sustaining PA operation down to 2.7V input with no regulation loss. |
| Thermal & Current Protection | Internal thermal shutdown (150°C) and fixed current limits (ILIM,PFET = 1.9A steady, 2.5A transient) prevent damage during PA burst transmission. |
Applications
| Cellular Phone RF Power Amplifier | USB Datacard 3G/4G Modem |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering multi-mode 2G/3G/4G PA in smartphone mainboard where battery voltage drops from 4.2V to 2.7V during discharge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary buck regulator delivering dynamically scaled VCC_PA per modulation standard, synchronized to baseband DAC output via VCON. Use Value: ACB maintains 3A delivery at 2.7V input with <50 mV ripple, avoiding PA gain collapse during EDGE transmit bursts. | Use Scenario: Compact USB dongle requiring high-efficiency PA supply within strict 20 mm × 10 mm PCB area budget. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Single-chip PA power solution replacing discrete buck + LDO, with MODE pin enabling automatic PFM/PWM based on data throughput. Use Value: 2.7MHz switching allows 1.5 µH inductor and eliminates need for external ferrite beads - reduces BOM count by 4 components. |
| Hand-Held Radio Transmitter | Battery-Powered RF PC Card |
Use Scenario: Portable land-mobile radio operating across temperature range −30°C to +90°C with intermittent high-duty-cycle TX. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability PA supply with thermal foldback and current limiting active during 100% duty cycle TX events. Use Value: Junction temperature monitoring and shutdown at 150°C prevents thermal runaway during extended field use in hot environments. | Use Scenario: Mini-PCIe RF card for IoT gateway requiring low-noise, fast-transient PA supply compatible with host CPU power sequencing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: EN-controlled startup with 30 µs SW activation delay ensures clean power-up before baseband initialization. Use Value: 50 µs turn-on time (to 90% VOUT) aligns with PCIe enumeration timing, preventing link training failures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar RF power amplifier supply applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS62590RRLR | 3A buck with 2.25MHz switching, no ACB; requires larger inductor (2.2 µH) for same 3A load; VOUT programmable only digitally (I²C). | Lacks analog VCON interface and ACB - unsuitable for envelope-tracking PA systems needing sub-µs VOUT slew. | Select when digital control and I²C telemetry are prioritized over analog envelope tracking. |
| TPS62260DDCR | 1.2A max output, 2.25MHz, no ACB or bypass mode; uses standard SOT-23-6 package; lower quiescent current (18 µA in shutdown). | Insufficient current for 3G/4G PA peak loads; cannot replace LM3253TME/NOPB in 3A applications without parallel staging. | Choose only for low-power 2G-only or auxiliary bias rails where 1.2A suffices. |
Compared with TPS62590RRLR and TPS62260DDCR, the LM3253TME/NOPB uniquely integrates analog VCON control, ACB current assist, and 45 mΩ bypass - enabling single-chip 3A RF PA supply in space-constrained mobile designs where dynamic voltage scaling and minimal dropout are mandatory.
Availability
LM3253TME/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB datacards, cellular phones, hand-held radios, and battery-powered RF devices requiring stable component supply across automotive-grade temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for LM3253TME/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 leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management ICs, with decades of RF power system expertise.
The LM3253 product line was engineered specifically for multi-mode cellular RF power amplifier supply, addressing 3GPP envelope tracking, spectral mask compliance, and Li-ion battery discharge optimization in portable wireless infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous output current capability of the LM3253TME/NOPB?
The LM3253TME/NOPB delivers up to 3.0A continuous output current in PWM mode, verified under TA = 25°C with recommended 1.5 µH inductor and proper thermal layout. At higher ambient temperatures or with reduced airflow, derating applies per θJA = 50°C/W; thermal shutdown engages at TJ = 150°C to protect the LM3253TME/NOPB.
How does the Active Current Assist & Analog Bypass (ACB) function in the LM3253TME/NOPB?
The ACB circuit in the LM3253TME/NOPB activates when inductor current reaches ~1.9A, supplying supplemental current through a parallel analog path to sustain 3A total load. It also enables low-dropout operation with 45 mΩ total resistance, allowing seamless transition into analog bypass mode when input voltage approaches VOUT - a core feature distinguishing the LM3253TME/NOPB from standard buck converters.
Can the LM3253TME/NOPB operate from a fully discharged Li-ion cell?
Yes - the LM3253TME/NOPB operates across 2.7V to 5.5V input, covering the full discharge curve of a single Li-ion cell. Its ACB and analog bypass modes maintain regulation down to 2.7V input even at 3A load, with measured dropout resistance of 45 mΩ ensuring minimal headroom loss - a key specification validated in TI's SNVS791Q datasheet for the LM3253TME/NOPB.
What is the role of the MODE pin on the LM3253TME/NOPB?
The MODE pin on the LM3253TME/NOPB selects between two operational states: HIGH enables automatic PFM/PWM mode transition (for 3G/4G efficiency optimization), while LOW forces constant-frequency PWM mode (required for 2G GMSK spectral compliance). This dual-mode capability is intrinsic to the LM3253TME/NOPB's design for multi-standard RF PA support.
Does the LM3253TME/NOPB include built-in protection features?
Yes - the LM3253TME/NOPB integrates current limiting (1.9A steady-state, 2.5A transient), thermal shutdown (150°C trip, 130°C release), and undervoltage lockout managed externally via EN pin control. These protections are silicon-verified and documented in the absolute maximum ratings and system characteristics tables of the official LM3253TME/NOPB datasheet.
LM3253TME/NOPB Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-WFBGA, DSBGA
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Applications:
- Converter, RF Power Amplifier
- Voltage - Input:
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Output:
- 0.4V ~ 3.6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -30°C ~ 90°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-DSBGA
LM3253TME/NOPB FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LM3253TME/NOPB through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LM3253TME/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 LM3253TME/NOPB reliable?
The price and inventory of LM3253TME/NOPB are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LM3253TME/NOPB is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LM3253TME/NOPB?
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4.How is shipping managed for LM3253TME/NOPB?
LM3253TME/NOPB orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LM3253TME/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 LM3253TME/NOPB?
For technical support, including LM3253TME/NOPB datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LM3253TME/NOPB requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LM3253TME/NOPB is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LM3253TME/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 LM3253TME/NOPB meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LM3253TME/NOPB?
All LM3253TME/NOPB units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LM3253TME/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 LM3253TME/NOPB part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LM3253TME/NOPB:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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