Texas Instruments TPS54521RHLT
- Part No.:
- TPS54521RHLT
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package:
- 14-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
TPS54521RHLT.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ 5A 14VQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:356
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Product details
Overview
TPS54521RHLT from Texas Instruments is a 4.5V–17V input, 5A synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with integrated 57mΩ/50mΩ MOSFETs, 0.8V reference, and adjustable 200–900kHz switching frequency. It delivers regulated 1.8V/3.3V/5V outputs for high-density power rails in flat-panel TVs, set-top boxes, and netbooks.
For engineers reviewing the TPS54521RHLT datasheet, TPS54521RHLT pinout, TPS54521RHLT application, or TPS54521RHLT equivalent, this page provides verified pin functions, thermal pad requirements, monotonic pre-biased startup behavior, hiccup overcurrent protection, and PWRGD fault monitoring with ±3% VREF tracking tolerance.
Technical Context
The TPS54521RHLT implements fixed-frequency peak current mode control with internal slope compensation to prevent subharmonic oscillation across 0–100% duty cycle. Its dual-rail architecture separates PVIN (1.6–17V) and VIN (4.5–17V) supplies, enabling split-rail operation and independent UVLO configuration via EN pin resistive dividers.
It integrates boot recharge circuitry with BOOT-PH UVLO (2.1V typical), supports 100% duty cycle when BOOT-PH >2.1V, and features a transconductance error amplifier (1300 μA/V) with COMP pin for type-II/type-III compensation. Power sequencing is enabled via SS/TR pin voltage override of the 0.8V reference.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | VIN: 4.5–17V; PVIN: 1.6–17V - enables flexible rail partitioning and low-voltage biasing of power stage |
| Output Current | 5A continuous - supports single-rail CPU/core logic supply without external current sharing |
| Switching Frequency | 200–900kHz - adjustable via RT resistor or external clock sync; balances efficiency vs. inductor size |
| Voltage Reference | 0.776–0.824V (±3%) - sets output accuracy; enables 1.8V/3.3V/5V designs with 1% feedback resistors |
| Quiescent Current | 2μA shutdown / 600–800μA non-switching - extends battery life in standby and light-load states |
| Thermal Protection | 140–150°C shutdown with 5°C hysteresis - prevents permanent damage during sustained overload |
| Power Good Accuracy | ±3% VREF window (94–106%) - ensures reliable system reset and sequencing coordination |
Pinout & Package
The TPS54521RHLT uses a thermally enhanced 14-pin QFN package (3.5mm × 3.5mm, 0.5mm pitch) with an exposed thermal pad requiring solder connection to PCB ground plane for thermal and electrical integrity.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RT/CLK | Frequency control & sync input | Selects switching frequency (200–900kHz) via resistor or synchronizes to external clock falling edge |
| GND (Pins 2,3) | Signal and low-side return | Provides common reference for control circuitry and low-side MOSFET source |
| PVIN (Pins 4,5) | Power switch supply rail | Directly powers high/low-side MOSFETs; supports down to 1.6V for partial-rail operation |
| VIN (Pin 6) | Control circuitry supply | Supplies internal bias, oscillator, and logic; must be ≥4.5V for full functionality |
| VSENSE (Pin 7) | Error amplifier inverting input | Monitors output via resistor divider; regulates to 0.8V reference with ±3% tracking |
| COMP (Pin 8) | Error amplifier output | Drives current comparator; connects external compensation network (type-II/III) |
| SS/TR (Pin 9) | Soft-start/tracking reference | Overrides internal 0.8V ref with external ramp; enables monotonic start into pre-biased loads |
| EN (Pin 10) | Enable & UVLO control | 1.21V rising threshold; internal 1.15μA pull-up allows floating enable or resistor-based UVLO adjustment |
| PH (Pins 11,12) | Switch node | Connects to inductor and BOOT capacitor; carries full switching waveform and current |
| BOOT (Pin 13) | High-side gate drive supply | Requires 0.1μF X7R/X5R ceramic cap to PH; monitored by 2.1V UVLO for boot recharge |
| PWRGD (Pin 14) | Open-drain fault indicator | Pulls low on UV/OV (91%/109% VREF), thermal shutdown, EN disable, or SS/TR <1.2V |
| Exposed Thermal Pad | Thermal & electrical ground | Mandatory solder connection to PCB ground plane; primary path for heat dissipation (θJCbot = 3.2°C/W) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated MOSFETs | 57mΩ high-side / 50mΩ low-side RDS(on) - eliminates external FETs and drivers, reducing BOM count and layout area |
| Split Power Rail | PVIN (1.6–17V) + VIN (4.5–17V) - enables efficient low-voltage power stage bias while maintaining full control functionality |
| Hiccup Overcurrent Protection | 512-cycle wait + 16384-cycle restart - limits average power during sustained short-circuit, preventing thermal runaway |
| Monotonic Pre-biased Startup | SS/TR > VSENSE required before low-side turn-on - prevents output discharge during hot-plug or multi-rail sequencing |
| Adjustable Input UVLO | Configurable via EN pin resistors - supports custom power-up thresholds on VIN or PVIN rails independently |
Applications
| Flat Panel Digital TVs | Set-Top Boxes & PVRs |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering 3.3V/5V logic rails and 1.8V DDR memory interfaces from 12V bus in space-constrained chassis. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary synchronous buck regulator delivering stable 5A output with PWRGD coordination for system reset timing. Use Value: Integrated MOSFETs and 3.5mm × 3.5mm QFN reduce board area by >40% vs. discrete solutions; hiccup protection sustains operation during transient HDMI hot-plug events. | Use Scenario: Generating isolated 1.8V core voltage for SoC and 3.3V I/O rails in multi-channel video encoders with strict EMI limits. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Adjustable-frequency buck converter synchronized to system clock via RT/CLK pin to minimize beat frequencies. Use Value: 200–900kHz frequency tuning avoids critical EMI bands; SS/TR pin enables precise power-up sequencing between processor and peripheral ICs. |
| Net Books | High-Density 3.3V/5V Distribution |
Use Scenario: Providing 1.8V core supply to Intel Atom or ARM Cortex-A processors in fanless ultraportables with thermal constraints. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-efficiency step-down converter operating at 500kHz with 2μA shutdown current for extended battery life. Use Value: 95% peak efficiency at 5VOUT/12VIN reduces thermal load; monotonic startup prevents brownout during wake-from-sleep transitions. | Use Scenario: Consolidating multiple point-of-load regulators onto a single 12V input bus in industrial control modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Flexible-input buck controller supporting both shared and split-rail configurations for mixed-voltage subsystems. Use Value: Dual PVIN/VIN inputs allow independent regulation of analog and digital domains; PWRGD signals enable coordinated firmware-controlled power cycling. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS54620RHLR | Pin-to-pin compatible; higher 6A output current; identical 4.5–17V input range and QFN-14 package | Targets higher-current applications like FPGA core rails where 5A margin is insufficient | Select TPS54620RHLR when >5A continuous load or higher peak current headroom is required |
| LM27402SDX/NOPB | External MOSFET driver; 4.5–20V input; no integrated power FETs; requires external high/low-side FETs and bootstrap components | Suitable for designs needing >10A output or custom FET selection for thermal/efficiency optimization | Choose LM27402SDX/NOPB when design flexibility, higher current, or discrete FET optimization outweighs BOM simplification |
Compared with TPS54521RHLT, TPS54620RHLR offers direct upgrade path with higher current capability in same footprint, while LM27402SDX/NOPB trades integration for design flexibility-neither is pin-compatible, but both serve adjacent synchronous buck use cases with distinct trade-offs in size, current, and component count.
Availability
TPS54521RHLT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for flat panel digital TVs, set-top boxes, and net books requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and consistent parametric performance across temperature.
Supply support for TPS54521RHLT 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-efficiency DC/DC conversion.
The TPS54521RHLT belongs to TI's SWIFT™ family of integrated synchronous buck converters, designed specifically for high-density, high-efficiency point-of-load power delivery in consumer and computing applications.
FAQ
What is the minimum input voltage required for TPS54521RHLT to operate with full functionality?
The TPS54521RHLT requires VIN ≥4.5V for full control circuitry operation, while PVIN can operate as low as 1.6V. If VIN drops below 4.5V, the device enters shutdown regardless of PVIN level. The internal VIN UVLO threshold is 4.0–4.5V with 150mV hysteresis, ensuring clean turn-on at nominal 12V bus inputs. For split-rail applications, PVIN may remain active below 4.5V, but VIN must meet its minimum to sustain regulation.
How does the TPS54521RHLT achieve monotonic startup into a pre-biased output?
The TPS54521RHLT prevents low-side MOSFET conduction until the SS/TR pin voltage exceeds the VSENSE pin voltage. During pre-biased startup, the internal 2.3μA SS/TR charge current ramps the SS/TR voltage slowly, while the error amplifier compares VSENSE against the lower of SS/TR or 0.8V reference. This ensures the output voltage rises monotonically without discharging the existing rail, a critical requirement for hot-plug and multi-rail sequencing in systems like net books and STBs.
What is the purpose of the exposed thermal pad on the TPS54521RHLT package?
The exposed thermal pad on the TPS54521RHLT is electrically connected to GND and serves as the primary thermal conduction path from die to PCB. With θJCbot = 3.2°C/W, it must be soldered to a solid copper ground plane using ≥4 thermal vias. Failure to connect it results in junction temperature rise exceeding 125°C under 5A load, triggering thermal shutdown. It is not optional-it is mandatory for both thermal reliability and signal integrity of the low-side MOSFET source return.
Can the TPS54521RHLT synchronize to an external clock, and what are the signal requirements?
Yes, the TPS54521RHLT synchronizes to an external clock via the RT/CLK pin using an internal PLL. The clock must be a square wave with 20–80% duty cycle, amplitude crossing 0.8V (low) and 2.0V (high), and frequency between 200–900kHz. Synchronization occurs on the falling edge, and CLK mode automatically overrides RT resistor configuration. No external components are needed beyond series AC coupling if DC offset exists.
What are the key differences between TPS54521RHLT and TPS54620RHLR?
The TPS54620RHLR is pin-to-pin compatible with the TPS54521RHLT but rated for 6A continuous output versus 5A. Both share identical 4.5–17V input range, 0.8V reference, QFN-14 package, and feature set-including PWRGD, SS/TR, and RT/CLK sync. The higher current rating of TPS54620RHLR stems from lower RDS(on) MOSFETs (48mΩ/43mΩ), making it a drop-in upgrade where additional headroom is needed without layout changes.
TPS54521RHLT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 14-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 4.5V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 17V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 0.8V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 15V
- Current - Output:
- 5A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 200kHz ~ 900kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 14-VQFN (3.5x3.5)
TPS54521RHLT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TPS54521RHLT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TPS54521RHLT on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for TPS54521RHLT reliable?
The price and inventory of TPS54521RHLT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TPS54521RHLT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TPS54521RHLT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TPS54521RHLT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TPS54521RHLT?
TPS54521RHLT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TPS54521RHLT order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for TPS54521RHLT?
For technical support, including TPS54521RHLT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TPS54521RHLT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TPS54521RHLT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TPS54521RHLT products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that TPS54521RHLT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TPS54521RHLT?
All TPS54521RHLT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TPS54521RHLT, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The TPS54521RHLT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TPS54521RHLT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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