Texas Instruments TPS54614EVM-183

Overview

TPS54614EVM-183 from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module built around the TPS54614PWP synchronous buck regulator, delivering a fixed 1.8-V output at up to 6 A over a 3.0–6.0-V input range. It integrates internal MOSFETs and fixed compensation, requires only seven external components, and occupies less than one square inch-designed for rapid validation of high-current point-of-load power delivery in embedded and industrial systems.

For engineers reviewing the TPS54614EVM-183 datasheet, TPS54614EVM-183 pinout, TPS54614EVM-183 application, or TPS54614EVM-183 equivalent, this EVM supports hands-on testing of efficiency (91% @ 5 V/1.5 A), load transient response (±55 mVpk, 12–16 µs edge), loop stability (50 kHz bandwidth, 46° phase margin), and thermal behavior (65°C junction @ 3.3 V/6 A).

Technical Context

The TPS54614EVM-183 implements a single-phase synchronous buck topology using the TPS54614PWP IC in a thermally enhanced PWP-28 package. It operates at a nominal switching frequency of 550 kHz (range: 440–660 kHz), with internal gate drivers, integrated high- and low-side MOSFETs, and factory-trimmed compensation-eliminating need for external loop components.

Input filtering uses a 220-µF POSCAP (C4) and 10-µF ceramic (C5); output employs a 680-µF POSCAP (C1) and 0.1-µF ceramic (C3). The board includes test points (TP1–TP4), dual-terminal blocks (J1 input, J2 output), and an optional slow-start capacitor footprint (C6), supporting configurable start-up timing and voltage monitoring.

Key Specifications

Availability

TPS54614EVM-183 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power architecture validation, DC/DC converter reference design verification, and high-current POL (point-of-load) regulator qualification requiring stable component supply and documented thermal/electrical performance data.

Supply support for TPS54614EVM-183 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 company specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management technologies, with decades of leadership in high-efficiency DC/DC conversion solutions.

The TPS54614EVM-183 belongs to TI's SWIFT™ regulator evaluation platform family, designed specifically to accelerate development and validation of internally compensated, high-current synchronous buck converters for space-constrained industrial and computing applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the TPS54614EVM-183?

The TPS54614EVM-183 is a fully assembled evaluation module that demonstrates the operation of the TPS54614PWP 1.8-V, 6-A synchronous buck regulator. It provides engineers with a ready-to-test platform to validate efficiency, thermal performance, transient response, and loop stability-without designing a custom PCB. The TPS54614EVM-183 includes all necessary passives, terminal blocks, and test points for immediate bench characterization.

Can the TPS54614EVM-183 be modified for different output voltages?

Yes-the TPS54614EVM-183 can be adapted for other output voltages by replacing U1 (the TPS54614PWP) with another member of the TPS5461x family (e.g., TPS54615 for 2.5 V) and updating the output capacitor C1 per Table 1–2 in the user's guide. For outputs below 2.5 V, only U1 needs replacement; for 2.5 V and above, C1 must also be changed to match voltage rating and ESR requirements. The TPS54614EVM-183 layout supports these modifications.

What are the key thermal characteristics of the TPS54614EVM-183?

At 25°C ambient, the TPS54614EVM-183 reaches ~65°C junction temperature and ~59°C case temperature under 3.3 V input and 6 A load. Its PWP-28 package features low junction-to-case thermal resistance, aided by a 4-layer board with dedicated internal ground planes and 14 vias connecting the thermal pad to internal and bottom-layer copper. The TPS54614EVM-183 is not agency-certified; users must implement appropriate thermal safeguards during extended high-load operation.

Does the TPS54614EVM-183 include protection features?

The TPS54614EVM-183 inherits the built-in protections of the TPS54614PWP IC: cycle-by-cycle current limiting, thermal shutdown (125°C junction), and power-good (PWRGD) signaling. It does not include input overvoltage, reverse polarity, or external fault latching-those must be added externally per system requirements. The TPS54614EVM-183 user's guide explicitly warns against exceeding input (3–6 V) or output (0–6 A) operating ranges to avoid damage.

Is the TPS54614EVM-183 FCC-compliant or certified for commercial use?

No-the TPS54614EVM-183 is intended solely for engineering development and evaluation purposes. It has not been tested for FCC Part 15 compliance or any regulatory certification (UL, CE, etc.). As stated in the EVM Important Notice, it is not fit for commercial deployment. Users must integrate the validated design into a fully compliant end-product enclosure with proper shielding, filtering, and safety isolation before market release. The TPS54614EVM-183 itself remains a lab-grade prototype tool.