Texas Instruments TPS259231DRCT

Overview

TPS259231DRCT from Texas Instruments is a 5-V eFuse IC with integrated 28-mΩ pass MOSFET, fixed 6.1-V overvoltage clamp, adjustable 1–5-A current limit (±8% accuracy at 3.7 A), reverse current blocking support, and auto-retry thermal shutdown-designed for adapter-powered SSDs, PCIe cards, and auxiliary server supplies.

For engineers reviewing the TPS259231DRCT datasheet, TPS259231DRCT pinout, TPS259231DRCT application, or TPS259231DRCT equivalent, key selection criteria include UVLO threshold (4.3 V), dV/dT-controlled output slew rate, BFET-driven back-to-back FET control, and UL 2367 recognition for safety-critical power management.

Technical Context

The TPS259231DRCT implements a hot-swap controller architecture with dual-stage current limiting: a fast-trip comparator (160% of I_LIM) responds in ≤300 ns to short circuits, while the main current-limit amplifier regulates sustained overload at programmable levels via ILIM resistor. Its internal charge pump drives the pass FET gate, enabling low R_DS(on) (28 mΩ typ.) across –40°C to +125°C junction temperature.

Unlike latched TPS259230, the TPS259231DRCT enters auto-retry mode upon thermal shutdown (T_SHDN = 150°C, hysteresis = 10°C), restarting only after junction temperature falls below 140°C-enabling fault recovery without manual reset in fan-cooled or intermittently loaded systems such as set-top boxes and HDD enclosures.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS259231DRCT uses a 10-pin VSON package (3.0 mm × 3.0 mm, 0.5-mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad for enhanced power dissipation (R_θJA = 45.9°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar eFuse applications.

Compared with TPS259230DRCT and TPS259421ARVCR, the TPS259231DRCT uniquely balances 5-V precision protection, BFET-enabled reverse blocking, and self-recovering thermal behavior in a space-constrained 3×3 mm footprint-making it optimal for SSDs and compact adapter-fed electronics where both safety and availability matter.

Availability

TPS259231DRCT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for adapter-powered devices, SSD/HDD drives, and server auxiliary supplies requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and UL-recognized safety certification.

Supply support for TPS259231DRCT 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 technologies-with broad portfolio coverage across industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The TPS25923x product line delivers highly integrated eFuse functionality for 5-V systems, targeting applications demanding robust overcurrent, overvoltage, and thermal protection with minimal external components and small form factor.

FAQ

What is the UVLO threshold voltage for TPS259231DRCT?

The TPS259231DRCT features a nominal undervoltage lockout (UVLO) rising threshold of 4.3 V, with ±150 mV tolerance (4.15 V to 4.45 V). This ensures reliable turn-on only when the 5-V input rail is stable, preventing erratic behavior during power-up. The EN/UVLO pin supports optional resistor-divider programming for custom UVLO points, but the default threshold is fixed and tested per production lot. TPS259231DRCT maintains this specification across –40°C to +125°C junction temperature.

How does the BFET pin function in TPS259231DRCT?

The BFET pin on the TPS259231DRCT sources 2 µA (typical) to charge an external NFET gate and discharges it via a 26-Ω internal path for sub-microsecond turnoff-enabling reverse-current blocking in SSDs and other systems with holdup capacitance. It operates automatically during VIN undervoltage or EN/UVLO deassertion. The TPS259231DRCT BFET logic follows Table 1 in the datasheet: high EN/UVLO + high VIN enables charging; low EN/UVLO forces immediate discharge regardless of VIN state.

What is the maximum continuous current rating for TPS259231DRCT?

The TPS259231DRCT supports continuous output current up to 5 A, set by an external resistor on the ILIM pin (e.g., 150 kΩ yields ~5.1 A). This rating assumes proper PCB layout with thermal pad soldering and ambient temperature ≤85°C. At full 5-A load and 5-V input, power dissipation remains within safe limits due to 28-mΩ R_DS(on), but thermal foldback activates above ~10 W to protect the TPS259231DRCT die. Derating is required above 85°C ambient.

Does TPS259231DRCT support programmable overvoltage protection?

No, the TPS259231DRCT provides a fixed 6.1-V overvoltage clamp-no external components or configuration pins adjust this threshold. When VIN exceeds ~6.75 V, the internal clamp activates to hold V_OUT ≤6.75 V (max) across temperature, protecting downstream 5-V ICs without requiring external TVS diodes. This fixed OVP is a core differentiator from adjustable alternatives and is validated per UL 2367 for safety-critical use. The TPS259231DRCT OVP operates independently of ILIM or EN/UVLO states.

How does thermal shutdown behavior differ between TPS259231DRCT and TPS259230DRCT?

The TPS259231DRCT implements auto-retry thermal shutdown: after tripping at 150°C, it remains off until junction temperature falls below 140°C (10°C hysteresis), then automatically restarts. In contrast, the TPS259230DRCT latches off permanently until EN/UVLO is toggled or power is cycled. This makes the TPS259231DRCT ideal for thermally dynamic environments like fan-cooled enclosures, whereas TPS259230DRCT suits systems requiring explicit fault acknowledgment. Both share identical thermal metrics and R_DS(on).