Texas Instruments TPS54260QDRCRQ1

Overview

TPS54260QDRCRQ1 from Texas Instruments is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 automotive-qualified 60-V input, 2.5-A synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with integrated 200-mΩ high-side MOSFET, Eco-mode™ pulse-skipping for 138-μA light-load quiescent current, and adjustable 100-kHz to 2.5-MHz switching frequency. It delivers regulated 3.3-V output at up to 2.5 A in infotainment power rails.

For engineers reviewing the TPS54260QDRCRQ1 datasheet, TPS54260QDRCRQ1 pinout, TPS54260QDRCRQ1 application, or TPS54260QDRCRQ1 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 3.5–60-V wide input range, 0.8-V internal reference, open-drain PWRGD with 94–107% window, RT/CLK synchronization capability, and thermal shutdown protection at 182°C.

Technical Context

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

It integrates boot charge diode and BOOT-PH UVLO (2.1 V threshold) to sustain high-duty-cycle operation; PWRGD asserts low on undervoltage (<92%) or overvoltage (>109%) events; EN pin supports adjustable UVLO via resistor divider and provides 1.25-V threshold with ±50-mV hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The TPS54260QDRCRQ1 is housed in a thermally enhanced 10-pin 3-mm × 3-mm VSON package (DRC) with exposed thermal pad (Pin 11) requiring solder connection to PCB ground plane for optimal thermal performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM5164QDDARQ1, TPS54260QDRCRQ1 offers higher output current and integrated boot diode at lower cost per amp; versus TPS54360QDRCRQ1, it trades 1-A output capacity for reduced thermal stress and lower BOM cost in 2.5-A applications.

Availability

TPS54260QDRCRQ1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and instrument cluster displays requiring stable component supply under AEC-Q100 Grade 1 conditions.

Supply support for TPS54260QDRCRQ1 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 and embedded processing technologies, with decades of automotive-grade power management innovation.

The TPS54260-Q1 product line delivers high-voltage, high-efficiency buck converters optimized for harsh automotive environments-including 12-V/24-V battery systems, load-dump immunity, and extended temperature operation.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for TPS54260QDRCRQ1 to regulate output?

The TPS54260QDRCRQ1 begins regulation when input voltage exceeds its internal undervoltage lockout threshold of 2.5 V. However, stable operation requires VIN ≥ 3.5 V per recommended operating conditions. Below 3.5 V, the device may not sustain regulation due to insufficient headroom for the high-side MOSFET and bootstrap circuit-especially under load. For cold-crank scenarios where battery dips to 3.2 V, use EN pin hysteresis programming to delay startup until voltage recovers.

How does the TPS54260QDRCRQ1 achieve 138-μA quiescent current?

The TPS54260QDRCRQ1 achieves 138-μA quiescent current through Eco-mode™ pulse skipping: when load current drops below the pulse-skip threshold (corresponding to ~500 mV on COMP pin), the device stops switching entirely while maintaining feedback loop monitoring. Only bias circuitry remains active, drawing minimal current from VIN. This mode is automatically entered and exited based on real-time output voltage and COMP voltage-no external control needed. The TPS54260QDRCRQ1 maintains this ultra-low IQ across its full 3.5–60-V input range.

Can TPS54260QDRCRQ1 synchronize to an external clock, and what are the requirements?

Yes, the TPS54260QDRCRQ1 synchronizes to an external clock via the RT/CLK pin. When pulled above 2.2 V (with 0.7-V low threshold), the internal oscillator disables and the pin becomes a high-impedance clock input to the internal PLL. Valid input clocks must be 300–2200 kHz square waves with ≥40-ns minimum pulse width. Clock edges must be monotonic and jitter ≤1 ns RMS. Loss of clock causes automatic reversion to RT-resistor mode within 100 μs. This feature ensures deterministic timing in multi-rail systems like domain controllers.

What thermal design guidance applies to the TPS54260QDRCRQ1 in VSON package?

The TPS54260QDRCRQ1 in VSON (DRC) package requires direct soldering of its exposed thermal pad (Pin 11) to a dedicated PCB copper pour connected to GND. TI recommends ≥6 thermal vias (13-mil diameter) under the pad, filled or capped, connecting to inner-layer ground planes. On a 2-layer board with 2-oz copper, RθJA is 40°C/W; with proper thermal design, junction temperature rise stays within limits even at 2.5-A load and 60-V input. Avoid routing signal traces under the thermal pad-this compromises heat transfer and increases θJA by >15°C.

Does TPS54260QDRCRQ1 support adjustable output voltage, and how is it set?

Yes, the TPS54260QDRCRQ1 supports adjustable output voltage using a resistor divider from VOUT to GND connected to the VSENSE pin. The internal 0.8-V reference sets regulation: VOUT = 0.8 V × (1 + R1/R2), where R1 is top resistor (VOUT to VSENSE) and R2 is bottom resistor (VSENSE to GND). TI recommends R2 = 10 kΩ for optimal noise immunity and bias current balance. Output accuracy is ±1.2% over temperature and line, validated across –40°C to 125°C ambient. For fixed 3.3-V output, use R1 = 31.25 kΩ and R2 = 10 kΩ.