Texas Instruments TPS54290PWP

Overview

TPS54290 from Texas Instruments is a dual-output, fully synchronous buck converter IC integrating two independent PWM channels (1.5-A CH1 and 2.5-A CH2) with internal high- and low-side MOSFETs, operating from 4.5 V to 18 V input and delivering regulated outputs down to 0.8 V. It features 300-kHz fixed switching frequency, 180° out-of-phase operation, and dedicated enable pins per channel - used in digital TV power rails and DSP core/IO supply sequencing.

For engineers reviewing the TPS54290 datasheet, TPS54290 pinout, TPS54290 application, or TPS54290 equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed thermal and electrical specs, real-world application mappings, and two rigorously cross-checked alternative parts for dual-buck DC/DC design review and BOM optimization.

Technical Context

The TPS54290 implements current-mode control with external compensation via COMP1/COMP2 pins, enabling stable loop tuning across varied output capacitor types. Its dual-channel architecture shares a single 2.4-MHz oscillator divided by 8 to yield 300 kHz, with interleaved 180° phase alignment reducing input ripple and EMI.

Each channel integrates independent UVLO monitoring (on PVDD2), soft-start ramp (5.2 ms), and pulse-by-pulse overcurrent protection (2.2 A on CH1, 3.8 A on CH2). The BP pin supplies a regulated 5.2-V source for bootstrap charging, while separated PGND1/PGND2 and GND pins isolate power-switching noise from analog control circuitry.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS54290 is housed in a 16-pin HTSSOP (PWP) package with exposed thermal pad, measuring 5.00 mm × 4.40 mm. The PowerPAD™ enhances thermal performance and requires solder connection to PCB ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual synchronous buck converter applications.

Compared with TPS54291, the TPS54290 offers longer soft-start and lower switching frequency for reduced EMI and improved light-load efficiency; versus TPS54283, it delivers higher integration, better thermal performance, and true synchronous operation - making it optimal for space-constrained, efficiency-sensitive 12-V consumer power systems.

Availability

TPS54290 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for digital television, set-top box, and DSP board applications requiring stable component supply, long-term production continuity, and traceable sourcing from authorized channels.

Supply support for TPS54290 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-efficiency DC/DC conversion.

The TPS54290 belongs to TI's SWIFT™ family of integrated power converters, designed specifically for space-constrained, high-reliability consumer and industrial power supplies demanding dual-rail flexibility and simplified layout.

FAQ

What is the maximum duty cycle supported by the TPS54290?

The TPS54290 supports a maximum duty cycle of 90% (typical) up to 96% (maximum), enabling high step-down ratios such as generating 3.3 V from a 4.5-V minimum input. This is achieved through optimized gate drive timing and low R_DS(on) FETs (170 mΩ HS / 120 mΩ LS on CH1), ensuring regulation remains stable even at low input voltages. The TPS54290 datasheet specifies D_MAX under Recommended Operating Conditions.

Does the TPS54290 require external bootstrap diodes?

No, the TPS54290 does not require external bootstrap diodes. It integrates internal bootstrap switches and a dedicated 5.2-V BP regulator that actively charges the BOOT1 and BOOT2 capacitors during the low-side FET conduction period. This eliminates diode forward-voltage drop and thermal concerns, simplifying layout and improving reliability - a key differentiator from non-integrated controllers like the TPS54283.

Can the TPS54290 operate with only one channel enabled?

Yes, the TPS54290 supports independent channel operation: EN1 and EN2 are separate active-low inputs, allowing CH1 or CH2 to be disabled while the other remains active. When one channel is disabled, its high-side FET remains off, SWx floats, and quiescent current drops accordingly. The BP regulator stays active as long as PVDD2 is valid, supporting flexible power management in partial-load scenarios.

What is the purpose of the separate PGND1 and PGND2 pins on the TPS54290?

PGND1 and PGND2 provide dedicated, low-inductance return paths for the high-current switching loops of CH1 and CH2 respectively. Separating them from each other and from the analog GND pin prevents switching noise from coupling into the feedback, error amplifier, and reference circuits - preserving regulation accuracy and loop stability. This layout-aware pin assignment is critical for achieving specified 1% V_FB accuracy and clean transient response.

How does the TPS54290 handle overcurrent events?

The TPS54290 employs pulse-by-pulse overcurrent protection: when sensed current exceeds 2.2 A (CH1) or 3.8 A (CH2), the high-side FET is immediately turned off for that cycle. If six consecutive overcurrent pulses occur, the device enters hiccup mode with a 30-ms timeout before retrying. This protects external inductors and MOSFETs while maintaining system-level fault containment - distinct from latch-off or constant-current limiting behaviors found in other controllers.