Texas Instruments TPS54060DRCR

Overview

TPS54060 from Texas Instruments is a 60-V, 0.5-A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated 200-mΩ high-side MOSFET, Eco-Mode™ pulse-skipping for light-load efficiency, 116-μA operating quiescent current, and adjustable 100-kHz to 2.5-MHz switching frequency. It delivers regulated 3.3-V output at 500 mA in industrial power supplies where wide input range and low standby power are critical.

For engineers reviewing the TPS54060 datasheet, TPS54060 pinout, TPS54060 application, or TPS54060 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 3.5–60-V input range, UVLO adjustability via EN pin, PWRGD open-drain power-good signaling, slow-start/sequencing capability via SS/TR, and thermal performance in the 3-mm × 3-mm VSON package.

Technical Context

The TPS54060 implements constant-frequency peak-current-mode control with internal slope compensation to prevent subharmonic oscillation across duty cycles. Its error amplifier drives COMP to regulate VSENSE against a 0.8-V reference, while the RT/CLK pin supports both resistor-set frequency tuning (100–2500 kHz) and external clock synchronization via PLL.

It integrates boot capacitor UVLO (2.1 V threshold), overload recovery with SS/TR discharge, frequency foldback during startup/faults, and dual-threshold PWRGD (94–107% nominal window). The EN pin provides programmable UVLO hysteresis and default-enable operation via internal pull-up.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The TPS54060 is housed in a thermally enhanced 3-mm × 3-mm, 10-pin VSON package (DRC) with exposed thermal pad electrically connected to GND for optimal PCB heat dissipation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-down converter applications.

Compared with LM5164QDDARQ1 and MP2451DT-LF-Z, the TPS54060 uniquely balances wide-input capability (3.5–60 V), ultra-low IQ (116 μA), programmable sequencing (SS/TR), and comprehensive fault signaling (PWRGD + OV/UV) in a compact VSON package-making it optimal for industrial and aftermarket power rails demanding reliability and design flexibility.

Availability

TPS54060 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, aftermarket automotive GPS modules, PLC I/O modules, and industrial IoT gateways requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for TPS54060 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 expertise in high-reliability power conversion solutions.

The TPS54060 belongs to TI's SWIFT™ family of integrated DC-DC converters, designed specifically for industrial and automotive applications requiring wide-input voltage range, low quiescent current, and robust fault protection.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for TPS54060 to start switching?

The TPS54060 has an internally set undervoltage lockout (UVLO) threshold of 2.5 V, below which the device remains disabled. However, the EN pin can be used to raise this threshold-e.g., with a resistor divider-to ensure startup only above a safe system voltage. Once enabled, the TPS54060 begins switching as soon as VIN exceeds the adjusted UVLO level and the SS/TR capacitor begins charging. The TPS54060 will not operate reliably below 3.5 V per recommended conditions, even if EN is asserted.

How does the TPS54060 achieve high efficiency at light loads?

The TPS54060 achieves high light-load efficiency through Eco-Mode™ pulse skipping, which disables switching when output regulation is maintained and peak inductor current falls below ~500 mV on the COMP pin. This reduces gate drive and switching losses, lowering operating quiescent current to 116 μA. The internal PLL remains active during Eco-Mode to maintain synchronization capability. The TPS54060 automatically resumes PWM operation when load increases or output voltage droops.

Can the TPS54060 be synchronized to an external clock, and how is it configured?

Yes, the TPS54060 supports external clock synchronization via the RT/CLK pin. When the pin voltage exceeds the PLL upper threshold (~2.2 V), the internal resistor-set amplifier disables and RT/CLK becomes a high-impedance clock input. Falling edges of the external clock trigger power switch turn-on. If clocking stops, the amplifier re-enables and returns to resistor-based frequency setting. The TPS54060's PLL lock time is 100 μs at 500 kHz, ensuring fast resynchronization after transient interruptions.

What is the role of the SS/TR pin in TPS54060, and how is it used for power sequencing?

The SS/TR pin controls output voltage ramp rate during startup (slow-start) and enables tracking of another supply rail (sequencing). A capacitor from SS/TR to GND sets the rise time; a resistor divider from a master rail to SS/TR forces the TPS54060 output to follow that rail's voltage profile. During faults or shutdown, the TPS54060 actively discharges the SS/TR capacitor to ensure repeatable restart behavior. This makes the TPS54060 suitable for multi-rail systems like FPGA or processor power domains requiring strict sequencing order.

Does the TPS54060 require an external bootstrap diode, and why or why not?

No, the TPS54060 does not require an external bootstrap diode because it integrates the boot recharge diode internally. This eliminates one external component, reduces board area, and improves reliability-especially in high-vibration environments like automotive or industrial settings. The internal diode charges the BOOT-to-PH capacitor during the low-side conduction phase. A 0.1-μF X7R/X5R ceramic capacitor rated ≥10 V is still required between BOOT and PH to sustain gate drive voltage for the integrated 200-mΩ high-side MOSFET.