Texas Instruments TPS2541ARTET

Overview

TPS2541ARTET from Texas Instruments is a USB 2.0 charging port power switch and controller integrating a 73-mΩ high-side MOSFET, 2.6-GHz data-line analog switch, and BC1.2/YD/T 1591-2009 charging port identification logic. It delivers up to 2.5 A output current with adjustable current limiting (via ILIM0/ILIM1 resistors), supports DCP/CDP/SDP modes via CTL1–CTL3, and features DSC-controlled OUT discharge for safe hot-plug removal in notebook PC USB ports.

For engineers reviewing the TPS2541ARTET datasheet, TPS2541ARTET pinout, TPS2541ARTET application, or TPS2541ARTET equivalent, this device is selected for USB host-side charging control where precise current limiting, low-distortion high-speed data pass-through, and multi-standard charger detection (including Apple Divider Mode) are required in space-constrained QFN16 RTE packages.

Technical Context

The TPS2541ARTET implements a dual-function architecture: a constant-current power switch with thermal shutdown (155°C) and undervoltage lockout (4.1 V nominal), plus a bidirectional, low-capacitance (5.4 pF ON-state) USB 2.0 D+/D− signal switch with 2.6 GHz bandwidth and 52 dB on-state cross-channel isolation. Its charge-mode selection logic interprets CTL1–CTL3 inputs to configure DCP shorted mode (125–200 Ω DP/DM short), CDP active handshake (0.6 V DM_IN source), or Divider Mode (2.0 V DP_IN / 2.7 V DM_IN outputs).

Unlike the TPS2540-series, the TPS2541ARTET uses DSC (pin 5) instead of EN for enable/discharge control - asserting DSC low disables power/data paths *and* actively discharges OUT through a 500 Ω internal resistor. Its FAULT pin provides de-glitched overcurrent/overtemperature reporting with 8.5 ms assertion delay, and ILIM_SEL dynamically selects between two independently set current thresholds (e.g., 230 mA or 2.43 A typical).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS2541ARTET is housed in a 16-pin QFN package (RTE) with exposed thermal pad. The package measures 4 mm × 4 mm × 0.9 mm and requires soldering the exposed die pad to a GND plane for optimal thermal performance (θ_JCbot = 3.9°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar USB charging port power switch and controller applications.

Compared with TPS2541ARTWR, the TPS2541ARTET offers identical performance in tray packaging for prototyping and low-volume builds; compared with TPS2540ARTET, it adds critical integrated discharge capability - eliminating external components and ensuring faster, more reliable capacitor bleed-down during disconnect events.

Availability

TPS2541ARTET is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook PC USB ports, universal wall charging adapters, and industrial embedded host systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for TPS2541ARTET 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 connectivity technologies, with decades of expertise in power management and USB interface solutions.

The TPS2541ARTET belongs to TI's USB Power Delivery and Charging portfolio, designed specifically for intelligent USB host-side charging control in consumer and industrial applications demanding multi-standard compatibility and high reliability.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the TPS2541ARTET in a USB system?

The TPS2541ARTET functions as an integrated USB 2.0 charging port power switch and controller. It combines a 73-mΩ high-side MOSFET for current-limited VBUS delivery, a 2.6-GHz bidirectional D+/D− analog switch for data transparency, and hardware-based BC1.2/YD/T 1591-2009/Apple Divider Mode detection logic - all in a single 4 mm × 4 mm QFN package. This eliminates the need for separate power switches, charger ID ICs, and signal switches in host-side USB charging designs.

How does the TPS2541ARTET differ from the TPS2540ARTET?

The TPS2541ARTET replaces the EN pin of the TPS2540ARTET with a DSC (discharge) pin that, when pulled low, not only disables the power and data paths but also actively discharges the OUT node through an internal 500 Ω resistor. The TPS2540ARTET lacks this integrated discharge function and requires external circuitry for safe hot-plug removal. Both share identical pinout, package, and charging mode logic.

Can the TPS2541ARTET support Apple devices like iPhone and iPad?

Yes, the TPS2541ARTET natively supports Apple's proprietary Divider Mode via its CTL1–CTL3 configuration. When set to Divider Mode, it generates precise 2.0 V on DP_IN and 2.7 V on DM_IN - matching Apple's required voltage signature - enabling full charging current (up to 2.5 A) for iPod, iPhone, and iPad models without requiring software negotiation or additional components.

What is the role of the ILIM0 and ILIM1 pins on the TPS2541ARTET?

ILIM0 and ILIM1 are current-limit setting inputs on the TPS2541ARTET. Each accepts an external resistor to GND to define a distinct current-limit threshold (e.g., 230 mA or 2.43 A typical). The ILIM_SEL pin selects between them: logic LO activates the ILIM0-defined limit, and logic HI activates the ILIM1-defined limit - enabling dynamic current-range switching during operation.

Does the TPS2541ARTET require external components for basic USB 2.0 operation?

Yes - the TPS2541ARTET requires at minimum: (1) a 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor from IN to GND; (2) two current-limit resistors (R_ILIM0, R_ILIM1) to GND; (3) a 10 kΩ pull-up resistor on FAULT for open-drain interfacing; and (4) proper thermal pad soldering to PCB GND. No external FETs, comparators, or level shifters are needed for BC1.2, CDP, SDP, or Divider Mode operation.