Texas Instruments TPS54260QDRCTQ1

Overview

TPS54260QDRCTQ1 from Texas Instruments is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified 3.5-V to 60-V, 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 via RT/CLK pin. It delivers regulated 3.3-V output at 2.5-A in automotive infotainment power rails.

For engineers reviewing the TPS54260QDRCTQ1 datasheet, TPS54260QDRCTQ1 pinout, TPS54260QDRCTQ1 application, or TPS54260QDRCTQ1 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 60-V max input rating, 0.8-V internal reference for low-output designs, open-drain PWRGD with ±3% threshold hysteresis, thermal shutdown at 182°C, and dual-package support (HVSSOP-10 and VSON-10) requiring explicit thermal pad grounding.

Technical Context

This current-mode buck regulator implements fixed-frequency PWM control with slope compensation to prevent subharmonic oscillation across 0–100% duty cycle. Its error amplifier drives COMP with 310-μS transconductance (70-μS during slow start), enabling stable loop response using external RC networks on COMP and VSENSE.

The device integrates boot UVLO (2.1-V BOOT-PH threshold), frequency foldback during overload, and a dedicated overload recovery circuit that discharges SS/TR to ensure repeatable restart after thermal or UVLO faults. The PLL-based RT/CLK pin supports both resistor-set operation and external clock synchronization with 40-ns minimum pulse width.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS54260QDRCTQ1 is packaged in a 10-pin 3-mm × 3-mm VSON (DRC) package with exposed thermal pad (Pin 11). The pad must be soldered to a PCB ground plane with ≥6 thermal vias for thermal performance (R_θJB = 20.1°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM5164QDGQRQ1 and MPQ4332GQ-AEC1, TPS54260QDRCTQ1 uniquely combines 60-V operation, 2.5-A capability, Eco-mode™ IQ, and full PLL-based clock sync-making it optimal for automotive systems requiring both efficiency and deterministic EMI control.

Availability

TPS54260QDRCTQ1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive infotainment, ADAS camera modules, and industrial 24-V field controllers requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for TPS54260QDRCTQ1 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 IC development and AEC-Q100 qualification expertise.

The TPS54260-Q1 product line targets high-reliability automotive power conversion, specifically addressing the need for wide-input, low-IQ, thermally robust buck regulators in infotainment, cluster, and ADAS subsystems.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the TPS54260QDRCTQ1?

The TPS54260QDRCTQ1 has a recommended operating input voltage range of 3.5 V to 60 V, with an absolute maximum rating of 65 V on the VIN pin. Exceeding 65 V may cause permanent damage. This rating enables direct connection to 12-V and 24-V automotive batteries, including load-dump transients per ISO 7637-2.

How does the Eco-mode™ function in the TPS54260QDRCTQ1 improve efficiency at light loads?

The TPS54260QDRCTQ1 enters Eco-mode™ pulse-skipping when peak inductor current falls below the threshold corresponding to 500 mV on the COMP pin. In this mode, the high-side MOSFET is inhibited, reducing switching and gate drive losses. As a result, the TPS54260QDRCTQ1 achieves 138 μA operating quiescent current, significantly extending battery life in always-on automotive modules.

Can the TPS54260QDRCTQ1 synchronize its switching frequency to an external clock signal?

Yes, the TPS54260QDRCTQ1 supports external clock synchronization via the RT/CLK pin. When pulled above 2.2 V, the internal oscillator amplifier disables and the pin becomes a high-impedance clock input to the internal PLL. The device locks to external clock edges within 100 μs and maintains synchronization even during light-load Eco-mode™ operation.

What is the role of the SS/TR pin on the TPS54260QDRCTQ1, and how is it used during fault recovery?

The SS/TR pin controls soft-start timing and power supply sequencing. During overcurrent or thermal shutdown, the TPS54260QDRCTQ1 actively discharges the SS/TR capacitor via an internal overload recovery circuit. This ensures the output restarts from a known state-preventing erratic behavior-and guarantees repeatable ramp-up when the fault condition clears.

Is the thermal pad on the TPS54260QDRCTQ1 VSON package electrically connected, and what is its function?

Yes, the exposed thermal pad (Pin 11) on the TPS54260QDRCTQ1 VSON package is electrically connected to GND and must be soldered to a PCB ground plane with at least six 13-mil thermal vias. This connection provides the primary thermal path (R_θJB = 20.1°C/W) and ensures proper operation of the internal thermal shutdown circuit at 182°C.