Texas Instruments TPS54618EVM-606

Overview

TPS54618EVM-606 from Texas Instruments is a 6-A, 1-MHz synchronous buck regulator evaluation module built around the TPS54618RTE QFN-16 DC/DC converter IC. It supports input voltages from 3 V to 6 V and delivers a fixed 1.8-V output at up to 6 A, with measured loop bandwidth of 60 kHz, phase margin of 58°, and output ripple of 8 mV_PP at full load - designed for rapid validation of high-density power stages in industrial and embedded systems.

For engineers reviewing the TPS54618EVM-606 datasheet, TPS54618EVM-606 test setup, TPS54618EVM-606 efficiency curves, or TPS54618EVM-606 schematic and bill of materials, this EVM provides verified performance data including line/load regulation (±0.25%/±0.3%), transient response (40 mV deviation, 120 μs recovery), and thermal-aware PCB layout optimized for 0.51 in² component area.

Technical Context

The TPS54618EVM-606 implements a voltage-mode synchronous buck topology using the integrated TPS54618RTE controller with internal high-side and low-side MOSFETs, externally set 1000-kHz switching frequency, and external compensation network. Its design emphasizes compactness, with 2-oz copper layers, optimized power trace routing on the top layer, and four thermal vias under the IC for junction-to-ground conduction.

It features adjustable undervoltage lockout (UVLO) via R1/R2 divider (set to 2.8 V start / 2.6 V stop), programmable slow-start via C7 (0.01 μF default = 4 ms), and output voltage adjustment via R9/R10 resistor divider (factory-set to 1.8 V). Input ripple is limited to 100 mV_PP at 6 A, and maximum efficiency reaches 94.7% at 3.3 V_IN/1 A.

Key Specifications

Availability

TPS54618EVM-606 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power supply validation, DC/DC converter reference design verification, and high-current buck regulator characterization requiring stable component supply and documented test data.

Supply support for TPS54618EVM-606 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 over 90 years of innovation in electronic systems.

The TPS54618EVM-606 belongs to TI's SWIFT™ regulator evaluation module family, engineered to demonstrate high-efficiency, space-constrained buck converter implementations using integrated FETs and external compensation for design flexibility.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the TPS54618EVM-606?

The TPS54618EVM-606 is an evaluation module for the TPS54618RTE synchronous buck converter IC. Its primary function is to provide a fully assembled, tested, and characterized platform for validating 6-A, 1-MHz DC/DC conversion performance - including efficiency, transient response, loop stability, and thermal behavior - under real-world conditions with 3–6 V input and 1.8 V output. Engineers use the TPS54618EVM-606 to accelerate power stage design without building custom hardware.

Can the output voltage of the TPS54618EVM-606 be adjusted, and how?

Yes, the output voltage of the TPS54618EVM-606 is adjustable via the R9/R10 resistor divider network. The default configuration sets 1.8 V using R10 = 80.6 kΩ, but R10 can be changed to achieve other outputs down to 0.799 V, as defined by the TPS54618's internal 0.799-V reference. Equation 1 in the user's guide provides the exact calculation, and Table 3 lists standard R10 values for common outputs like 1.0 V, 1.2 V, 1.5 V, and 2.5 V - all while maintaining valid minimum on-time and duty cycle constraints.

What are the key test points and connectors on the TPS54618EVM-606?

The TPS54618EVM-606 includes J1 (VIN input, 3–6 V), J3 (VOUT output, 1.8 V/6 A), JP1 (EN enable jumper), and JP2 (PWRGD pull-up option). Test points include TP1/TP2 (VIN and GND), TP8/TP9 (VOUT and GND), TP3 (slow-start monitor), TP4 (PHASE node), TP5 (PWRGD signal), and TP7 (voltage divider feedback node for loop analysis). These interfaces allow direct probing of critical signals without soldering, supporting comprehensive bench validation of the TPS54618EVM-606.

How does the TPS54618EVM-606 handle undervoltage lockout (UVLO)?

UVLO on the TPS54618EVM-606 is implemented externally using resistor divider R1 (25.6 kΩ) and R2 (20.0 kΩ), setting a start voltage of 2.8 V and stop voltage of 2.6 V. This configuration prevents operation below safe input thresholds and avoids brownout-induced instability. Equations 3 and 4 in the user's guide allow recalculating R1/R2 for alternate UVLO thresholds, ensuring the TPS54618EVM-606 remains compatible with diverse input source profiles while protecting downstream circuitry.

What thermal and layout features support high-current operation on the TPS54618EVM-606?

The TPS54618EVM-606 uses 2-oz copper on all layers - top, bottom, and two internal planes - with dedicated ground planes on bottom and internal layers. Four thermal vias directly beneath the TPS54618RTE QFN-16 package connect the top-side ground pour to lower-layer thermal mass, reducing junction temperature rise during 6-A operation. Power traces (VIN, VOUT, PHASE) are routed on the top layer with minimal length and adequate width, and input/output decoupling capacitors (C2–C4, C9–C13) are placed adjacent to the IC to minimize loop inductance - all contributing to reliable TPS54618EVM-606 performance at full load.