Texas Instruments TPS54872PWPR

Overview

TPS54872PWPR from Texas Instruments is a synchronous-buck PWM DC/DC converter optimized for high-current DDR memory termination and active GTL/SSTL logic termination. It delivers 8-A continuous output current (source or sink), integrates 30-mΩ high-side and low-side MOSFETs, supports 280–700 kHz adjustable switching frequency, and operates from 4 V to 6 V input with 0.2 V to 1.75 V external reference tracking - used in precision point-of-load supplies for server memory subsystems.

For engineers reviewing the TPS54872PWPR datasheet, TPS54872PWPR pinout, TPS54872PWPR application, or TPS54872PWPR equivalent, this page provides verified package mapping (28-pin HTSSOP PowerPAD), confirmed thermal performance data (14.4°C/W junction-to-ambient with solder), validated current-limit threshold (9–11 A), exact REFIN voltage range (0.2–1.75 V), and real-world transient response metrics (2 A → 6 A step, <20 mV deviation).

Technical Context

The TPS54872PWPR implements a voltage-mode synchronous buck architecture with integrated high- and low-side N-channel MOSFETs, adaptive dead-time control, and a high-gain (90–110 dB) error amplifier enabling wide L/C filter flexibility. Its UVLO (3.80 V start / 3.50 V stop) and internal slow-start (2.6–4.1 ms) ensure controlled power-up under varying input conditions.

It features dual ground domains (AGND for analog signals, PGND for high-current paths), a dedicated REFIN pin for external voltage tracking (e.g., half-VDDQ), and cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection triggered within 200 ns at 9–11 A - with thermal shutdown at 135–165°C and 10°C hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS54872PWPR is housed in a thermally enhanced 28-pin HTSSOP (PWP) PowerPAD package measuring 6.4 mm × 9.7 mm, with an exposed thermal pad on the underside requiring solder connection to AGND for optimal heat dissipation and electrical performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-current synchronous buck regulator applications.

Compared with TPS54872PWPR, TPS54672PWP offers identical footprint and feature set but reduced current capacity, while TPS54372PWP sacrifices both current and thermal performance for smaller size - making TPS54872PWPR the sole option for validated 8-A DDR VTT applications requiring full thermal headroom.

Availability

TPS54872PWPR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DDR memory termination, active logic termination, and precision point-of-load power supplies requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing for industrial and computing applications.

Supply support for TPS54872PWPR 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 and system-level power architecture.

The TPS54872PWPR belongs to TI's SWIFT™ family of integrated synchronous buck regulators, designed specifically for high-current, low-voltage point-of-load applications in memory subsystems and high-speed digital logic interfaces.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current supported by the TPS54872PWPR?

The TPS54872PWPR supports 8 A of continuous output current in both sourcing and sinking modes, validated across the full operating temperature range (−40°C to 125°C) and input voltage range (4 V to 6 V). This rating assumes proper PCB layout with soldered PowerPAD, adequate thermal vias, and appropriate input/output capacitance per TI's recommended land pattern.

Does the TPS54872PWPR require external MOSFETs for operation?

No, the TPS54872PWPR integrates both high-side and low-side N-channel MOSFETs with typical rDS(on) of 30 mΩ at 4.5 V input, eliminating the need for external power switches. The device is a complete synchronous-buck solution requiring only external inductor, input/output capacitors, compensation network, and optional RT resistor for frequency setting.

Can the TPS54872PWPR track a variable reference voltage such as half-VDDQ?

Yes, the TPS54872PWPR accepts an externally supplied reference voltage on the REFIN pin over the range 0.2 V to 1.75 V. When a valid voltage is applied (e.g., VDDQ/2 from a resistor divider), it overrides the internal 0.8-V reference and directly controls the output voltage - enabling precise DDR memory termination without additional DACs or op-amps.

What thermal management is required for full 8-A operation of the TPS54872PWPR?

For full 8-A continuous operation, the TPS54872PWPR requires its PowerPAD to be soldered to a minimum 3-inch × 3-inch 1-oz copper analog ground plane with eight 0.013″ vias in the pad area and four 0.018″ vias under the package. This achieves the specified 14.4°C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance and enables 6.94 W power dissipation at 25°C ambient.

How does the TPS54872PWPR protect against overcurrent and thermal faults?

The TPS54872PWPR provides cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection that trips within 200 ns at 9–11 A, disabling the high-side MOSFET. It also includes thermal shutdown at 135–165°C with 10°C hysteresis. During sustained overload, the device cycles between startup and shutdown - a behavior confirmed in the SLVS436C datasheet's detailed description section.