Texas Instruments TPS2556QDRBRQ1

Overview

TPS2556QDRBRQ1 from Texas Instruments is an AEC-Q100 qualified automotive power-distribution switch with adjustable current limiting (500 mA–5 A), 22-mΩ high-side N-channel MOSFET, 2.5 V–6.5 V operating range, and 3.5 μs short-circuit response-designed for USB charging ports in vehicles requiring precise overcurrent protection and thermal safety.

For engineers reviewing the TPS2556QDRBRQ1 datasheet, TPS2556QDRBRQ1 pinout, TPS2556QDRBRQ1 application, or TPS2556QDRBRQ1 equivalent, key selection criteria include ±6.5% current-limit accuracy at 4.5 A, active-low enable logic, fault reporting via open-drain FAULT, soft-start control, and compliance with UL 2367 and IEC 62368 safety standards.

Technical Context

The TPS2556QDRBRQ1 integrates an internal charge pump to drive the N-channel MOSFET gate above source potential, enabling full enhancement down to 2.5 V input. Its current-limit loop dynamically regulates output current by modulating gate voltage during overload, forcing the MOSFET into linear operation to clamp I_OUT at the programmed threshold.

It features dual thermal shutdown thresholds (135°C in current-limit mode, 155°C unconditional), 8-ms deglitched FAULT assertion for overcurrent events, undervoltage lockout (2.45 V turn-on with 35 mV hysteresis), and built-in soft-start via controlled rise/fall times (2–4 ms typical) to suppress inrush surges into capacitive loads.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

S-PVSON-8 (DRB) package, 3 mm × 3 mm body size with exposed thermal pad connected internally to GND - requires external solder connection of thermal pad to PCB ground plane for thermal performance (R_θJB = 16.4°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar power-distribution switch applications.

Compared with TPS2557QDRBRQ1, the TPS2556QDRBRQ1 offers direct compatibility with active-low MCU outputs without level-shifting; compared with TPS2561AQDGNRQ1, it provides superior single-channel efficiency and faster fault response but requires separate ICs for multi-port systems.

Availability

TPS2556QDRBRQ1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive USB charging ports, infotainment power rails, telematics control units, and ADAS camera power sequencing requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for TPS2556QDRBRQ1 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 headquartered in Dallas, Texas, delivering analog and embedded processing solutions for automotive, industrial, and personal electronics markets.

The TPS255x-Q1 product line was designed specifically for automotive power-distribution applications demanding precision current limiting, robust ESD immunity, functional safety documentation, and AEC-Q100 qualification - targeting USB charging, infotainment, and ADAS subsystems.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current rating for the TPS2556QDRBRQ1?

The TPS2556QDRBRQ1 does not have a fixed maximum continuous output current rating - instead, its output current is programmable from 500 mA to 5 A (typical) using an external resistor on the ILIM pin. The actual sustained current depends on thermal design and ambient conditions; at 25°C ambient with proper PCB copper area, it reliably delivers up to 4.5 A continuously before entering thermal regulation. The device enters constant-current mode if load exceeds the programmed threshold.

Does the TPS2556QDRBRQ1 support USB Battery Charging (BC) 1.2 specification compliance?

Yes, the TPS2556QDRBRQ1 meets USB current-limiting requirements per USB BC 1.2, including accurate current limiting (±6.5% at 4.5 A), fast short-circuit response (3.5 μs), and compatibility with TPS2511-Q1/TPS2513A-Q1 USB detection ICs. When paired with those companion devices, the TPS2556QDRBRQ1 enables full BC 1.2 DCP/CDP/SDP handshaking and charging for smartphones and tablets in automotive environments.

How is the current-limit threshold set on the TPS2556QDRBRQ1?

The current-limit threshold on the TPS2556QDRBRQ1 is set by connecting an external resistor (R_ILIM) between the ILIM pin and GND. The recommended range is 20 kΩ to 187 kΩ, yielding current limits from ~500 mA to ~5 A. For example, a 24.9 kΩ resistor sets a nominal limit of 4.5 A. The device uses an internal regulation loop to generate a stable voltage on ILIM, making the current limit proportional to the sourced current - ensuring accuracy independent of input voltage variation.

What is the function of the FAULT pin on the TPS2556QDRBRQ1?

FAULT is an active-low, open-drain output that asserts (pulls low) during overcurrent or overtemperature conditions. It remains asserted until the fault condition clears and the device resumes normal operation. Internal 8-ms deglitching prevents false triggering during capacitive inrush. The FAULT signal can directly interface with a microcontroller GPIO or pull-up resistor (to V_IN) for system-level fault monitoring - no external components are required for basic fault indication in the TPS2556QDRBRQ1.

Can the TPS2556QDRBRQ1 operate with input voltages below 3.0 V?

Yes, the TPS2556QDRBRQ1 operates from 2.5 V to 6.5 V, making it suitable for automotive cold-crank scenarios where battery voltage dips below 3.0 V. Its internal charge pump functions down to 2.5 V input, maintaining full gate drive capability and current-limit accuracy. Undervoltage lockout activates at 2.45 V (rising), with 35 mV hysteresis, ensuring clean turn-on once battery recovers - critical for reliable operation in start-stop systems where the TPS2556QDRBRQ1 may remain powered during engine cranking.