Texas Instruments TPS5210EVM-126

Overview

TPS5210EVM-126 from Texas Instruments is a 45-A synchronous buck converter evaluation module (EVM) built around the TPS5210 hysteretic ripple regulator controller. It delivers programmable output voltage (1.3 V to 3.5 V) with remote sensing, 125-kHz nominal switching frequency, and supports high-slew-rate microprocessor load transients up to 20 A/µs - validated for Intel VRM 8.3 compliance.

For engineers reviewing the TPS5210EVM-126 datasheet, TPS5210EVM-126 pinout, TPS5210EVM-126 application, or TPS5210EVM-126 equivalent, this EVM enables rapid validation of high-current, fast-transient DC/DC power delivery in CPU core supply designs, VRM reference implementations, and high-efficiency board-level power architecture prototyping.

Technical Context

The TPS5210EVM-126 implements a fixed-off-time hysteretic control architecture using the TPS5210DW PWM controller, eliminating loop compensation and enabling sub-cycle transient response. It integrates six IRF7811 N-channel MOSFETs in SO-8 packages with CopperStrap™ technology for low R_DS(on) and high-current handling.

Designed as a modified SLVP119 platform optimized for 12-V main input and 45-A continuous output, it features a 4-oz copper PCB, 1-µH planar inductor (Pulse P1605), and multi-capacitor output filtering (Os-Con + ceramic + tantalum) targeting dynamic regulation over static ripple minimization.

Key Specifications

Availability

TPS5210EVM-126 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for CPU power delivery validation, VRM 8.3 compliance testing, and high-current DC/DC prototype development requiring stable component supply and full documentation traceability.

Supply support for TPS5210EVM-126 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 decades of expertise in high-performance power conversion ICs and reference designs.

The TPS5210EVM-126 belongs to TI's high-current synchronous buck evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to accelerate design-in of VRM-compliant, fast-response CPU core power supplies for desktop, server, and workstation applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the TPS5210EVM-126?

The TPS5210EVM-126 is an evaluation module-not a standalone IC-that demonstrates the performance of the TPS5210 hysteretic controller in a complete 45-A synchronous buck converter. It provides a tested, ready-to-use hardware platform for validating voltage regulation, transient response, efficiency, and VRM 8.3 compliance in high-current CPU power applications. The TPS5210EVM-126 includes all necessary components, layout, and test points for immediate lab evaluation.

Does the TPS5210EVM-126 support Intel VRM 8.3 specifications?

Yes, the TPS5210EVM-126 is explicitly designed and tested to meet Intel VRM 8.3 requirements, including voltage identification coding (5-bit VID), load transient response (0→10 A at 20 A/µs), droop compensation, and remote sensing. TI's related VRM 8.3 DC-DC Converter Design Guidelines (Order #243870–001) were used in its development, and test data in the user's guide confirms compliance across line/load regulation, start-up, and frequency behavior. The TPS5210EVM-126 validates the full VRM implementation path.

What input voltage rails does the TPS5210EVM-126 require?

The TPS5210EVM-126 requires two independent input supplies: a 12-V main power rail (11.4–13 V) delivering up to 45 A, and a separate 5-V auxiliary rail (4.5–5.5 V, 30 mA) for logic functions including enable/inhibit control and power-good signaling. These are physically isolated on the board and must be supplied simultaneously for proper operation. The 5-V rail powers the TPS5210DW controller's logic section and monitoring circuitry.

How is output voltage programmed on the TPS5210EVM-126?

Output voltage is programmed via five VID input pins (VID0–VID4) using a binary-coded 5-bit scheme defined in Table 1–2 of the user's guide. Each combination sets a precise V_REF from 1.30 V to 3.50 V in 50-mV increments. The VID inputs accept either ground (0) or floating/pull-up to 5 V (1), and are compatible with standard VRM-compatible host controllers. No external DAC or resistor network is needed - configuration is purely digital and matches Intel VRM standards.

Can the TPS5210EVM-126 operate without forced air cooling?

Yes - the TPS5210EVM-126 operates without forced air cooling up to 30 A output current at room temperature, thanks to its 4-oz copper PCB, low-R_DS(on) IRF7811 MOSFETs, and optimized thermal layout. At full 45-A load, TI recommends Silver Box fan-assisted airflow per the test conditions in Section 5.1.1. Thermal performance data (power loss vs. load, Figure 5–3) confirms <12.5 W total dissipation at 40 A, enabling reliable conduction-cooled operation in many lab and prototype environments. The TPS5210EVM-126 includes thermal test points for direct measurement.