Texas Instruments TPS54240DRCR

Overview

TPS54240DRCR from Texas Instruments is a 42-V input, 2.5-A synchronous step-down DC-DC converter with integrated 200-mΩ high-side MOSFET, Eco-Mode™ for light-load efficiency, 138-μA quiescent current, and adjustable 100-kHz to 2.5-MHz switching frequency. It delivers regulated 3.3-V or 5-V outputs in industrial power systems requiring wide VIN range and robust thermal performance.

For engineers reviewing the TPS54240DRCR datasheet, TPS54240DRCR pinout, TPS54240DRCR application, or TPS54240DRCR equivalent, key selection criteria include input voltage range (3.5–42 V), Eco-Mode operation at light loads, PWRGD power-good signaling, RT/CLK synchronization capability, and thermal performance in the 3-mm × 3-mm VSON package with PowerPAD™.

Technical Context

The TPS54240DRCR implements constant-frequency peak current-mode control with internal slope compensation to prevent subharmonic oscillation across full duty cycle range. Its error amplifier drives COMP with transconductance of 310 μS (typ) and 70 μS during slow-start, enabling stable loop compensation using external RC networks on COMP and VSENSE.

It integrates boot UVLO monitoring (2.1 V threshold), frequency foldback during overload, thermal shutdown at 182°C, and an open-drain PWRGD comparator asserting outside 94–107% of nominal VOUT. The RT/CLK pin supports both resistor-set frequency (100–2500 kHz) and external clock synchronization (300–2200 kHz) via PLL lock-in.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The TPS54240DRCR is housed in a 10-pin, 3-mm × 3-mm VSON package (DRC) with exposed thermal pad (PowerPAD™) that must be soldered to PCB ground plane for thermal and electrical integrity.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM5164QDDARQ1 and MP2451DT-LF-Z, the TPS54240DRCR uniquely combines 2.5-A output, Eco-Mode efficiency down to microamp loads, PWRGD signaling, and RT/CLK synchronization-making it optimal for industrial and telematics applications demanding flexibility, reliability, and low-noise operation.

Availability

TPS54240DRCR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for 12-V and 24-V industrial power systems, GSM/GPRS telematics modules, smart metering (eMeters), and security system control panels requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for TPS54240DRCR 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 IC design and manufacturing.

The TPS54240DRCR belongs to TI's SWIFT™ family of high-voltage buck regulators, engineered for rugged industrial, automotive, and communications applications where wide input range, thermal robustness, and feature-rich control are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current of the TPS54240DRCR?

The TPS54240DRCR delivers 2.5 A of continuous output current under recommended operating conditions (TJ ≤ 125°C, proper PCB thermal design). This rating assumes use of the DRC package with PowerPAD™ soldered to a 2-in² copper area and ambient temperature ≤ 85°C. Derating applies above 85°C ambient per the θJA = 40 °C/W thermal metric.

How does Eco-Mode™ operate in the TPS54240DRCR?

Eco-Mode™ in the TPS54240DRCR activates automatically at light loads when peak switch current falls below ~500 mV on the COMP pin. It disables switching pulses while maintaining regulation via controlled burst-mode operation, reducing input quiescent current to 138 μA. The device resumes normal PWM when load increases or output voltage droops, ensuring seamless transition without output disturbance.

Can the TPS54240DRCR synchronize to an external clock signal?

Yes, the TPS54240DRCR supports external clock synchronization via the RT/CLK pin. When pulled above 2.2 V, the internal amplifier disables and the pin becomes a high-impedance clock input to the internal PLL. It accepts external clocks from 300 kHz to 2200 kHz, with lock-in time of 100 μs at 500 kHz. This feature suppresses beat frequencies in multi-rail systems like GSM modules.

What is the purpose of the SS/TR pin on the TPS54240DRCR?

The SS/TR pin on the TPS54240DRCR controls soft-start timing and enables power supply sequencing. Connecting a capacitor sets the output voltage ramp time to limit inrush current. For sequencing, a resistor divider can override the internal reference to track another rail's voltage. During faults or disable, the pin is actively discharged to ensure repeatable restart behavior.

Does the TPS54240DRCR require an external bootstrap diode?

No, the TPS54240DRCR integrates the bootstrap diode internally. Only a 0.1-μF X7R or X5R ceramic capacitor between BOOT and PH pins is required to provide gate drive voltage for the high-side MOSFET. This integration reduces component count, board area, and layout sensitivity compared to controllers requiring discrete bootstrap diodes.