Texas Instruments TPS56C231RNNR
- Part No.:
- TPS56C231RNNR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package:
- 18-PowerVFQFN
- Datasheet:
-
TPS56C231RNNR.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ 12A 18VQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
TPS56C231RNNR from Texas Instruments is a 12-A synchronous step-down DC/DC converter with D-CAP3™ control, integrated 7.8-mΩ/3.2-mΩ MOSFETs, 0.6-V ±1% reference voltage over –40°C to 125°C, and selectable 400/800/1200-kHz switching frequency - deployed in space-constrained data center point-of-load (POL) rails.
For engineers reviewing the TPS56C231RNNR datasheet, TPS56C231RNNR pinout, TPS56C231RNNR application, or TPS56C231RNNR equivalent, key selection criteria include input voltage range (3.8–17 V), peak current capability (15 A), Eco-mode vs FCCM light-load operation, MODE-pin configurable current limits (14.7 A / 17 A), and HotRod™ QFN thermal performance (RθJA = 27°C/W on EVM).
Technical Context
The TPS56C231RNNR implements adaptive on-time D-CAP3™ control with internal ripple injection-enabling fast transient response without external compensation while supporting ceramic output capacitors. Its dual-mode operation (Eco-mode for high light-load efficiency; FCCM for tight output voltage ripple) is selected via resistor divider on the MODE pin.
It integrates a 4.7-V LDO (VREG5) with optional external 5-V bias override, prebiased start-up, and non-latched protections including UVLO (VIN-dependent hysteresis), OVP (121% threshold), UVP (70%), and thermal shutdown (160°C). The device supports adjustable soft-start (1.2-ms default) and power-good monitoring with 128-µs assertion delay.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 3.8 V to 17 V (supports 12-V and 5-V intermediate bus rails without external bias; extends to 4.5–17 V with external VREG5 bias) |
| Output Current | 12-A continuous, 15-A peak - enables single-chip POL supply for multi-core processors or ASICs |
| Reference Voltage | 0.6 V ±1% over –40°C to 125°C - ensures stable regulation under wide thermal and load transients |
| Switching Frequency | Selectable 400 / 800 / 1200 kHz - balances inductor size (higher fSW) vs conduction loss (lower fSW) |
| Quiescent Current | 146 µA at 25°C - minimizes standby power in always-on systems |
| Current Limit Options | Two valley-current thresholds: 14.7 A (ILIM-1) and 17 A (ILIM) - configurable via MODE pin for robust overload handling |
| Thermal Resistance | RθJA = 27°C/W (TI EVM layout) - enables high-power density designs with minimal heatsinking |
Pinout & Package
TPS56C231RNNR uses a 3.5-mm × 3.5-mm, 18-pin HotRod™ QFN (RNN) package with exposed thermal pad for enhanced power dissipation and low-inductance SW/PGND connections.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| BOOT | High-side gate driver supply | Connects bootstrap capacitor between BOOT and SW to drive high-side MOSFET; requires low-ESR ceramic cap |
| VIN (Pins 2,11) | Main input power rail | Accepts 3.8–17 V; decoupled to PGND with multiple low-ESR capacitors near pins |
| PGND (Pins 3,4,5,8,9,10) | Power ground return | Multiple parallel paths reduce ground loop inductance and improve EMI performance |
| SW (Pins 6,7) | Switch node | Connects directly to output inductor; low-inductance routing critical for efficiency and EMI |
| AGND (Pin 12) | Analog ground reference | Separate analog ground plane tied to PGND at single point to minimize noise coupling into FB path |
| FB (Pin 13) | Feedback input | Monitors output via resistor divider; high-impedance input enables precision regulation with <±1% tolerance |
| SS (Pin 14) | Soft-start timing | Capacitor-connected pin sets soft-start time; open-circuit defaults to 1.2 ms for controlled inrush |
| EN (Pin 15) | Enable control | Internal pullup allows floating-enable; also supports UVLO adjustment via resistor divider from VIN |
| PGOOD (Pin 16) | Open-drain status indicator | Asserts low during fault (OVP/UVP/thermal/soft-start); 4-mA sink capability drives logic-level loads |
| VREG5 (Pin 17) | Internal 4.7-V LDO output | Bypassed with 4.7-µF capacitor; accepts external 5-V bias to improve efficiency and enable flexible sequencing |
| MODE (Pin 18) | Configuration control | Resistor-divider input selects fSW, current limit (14.7 A / 17 A), and Eco/FCCM mode |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| D-CAP3™ adaptive on-time control | Eliminates need for external compensation components while delivering <10-µs load transient response with ceramic output caps |
| Selectably configurable operating modes | Single MODE pin configures switching frequency (400/800/1200 kHz), current limit (14.7 A or 17 A), and light-load behavior (Eco-mode or FCCM) |
| Integrated high-efficiency power stage | 7.8-mΩ high-side + 3.2-mΩ low-side MOSFETs enable >90% efficiency at 12 A (12 VIN/1.2 VOUT, FCCM, 400 kHz) |
| Robust protection suite | Non-latched UVLO, OVP (121%), UVP (70%), thermal shutdown (160°C), and hiccup-restart current limiting ensure system reliability |
| Flexible bias architecture | VREG5 pin supports internal 4.7-V LDO or external 5-V override - improves light-load efficiency and simplifies power sequencing |
Applications
| Data Center POL Rails | Wireless Baseband Units |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Powering multi-core CPUs, FPGAs, and AI accelerators in 1U server racks where board area and thermal headroom are constrained. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary point-of-load regulator converting 12-V intermediate bus to sub-1.2-V core voltages with fast transient response. Use Value: Delivers 12-A continuous current in 3.5×3.5-mm footprint with RθJA = 27°C/W, enabling compact, high-density server power delivery. |
Use Scenario: Supplying RF transceivers and digital baseband ICs in 5G massive MIMO active antenna units requiring low-noise, tightly regulated rails. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-efficiency buck converter generating 3.3-V or 5-V auxiliary supplies with FCCM mode for low output ripple (<10 mVpp). Use Value: Selectable 400/800/1200-kHz fSW allows optimization for EMI filtering requirements while maintaining >88% efficiency at full load. |
| Industrial PLC I/O Modules | High-End Digital TV SoCs |
|
Use Scenario: Providing isolated 5-V and 3.3-V rails for programmable logic controllers operating in extended temperature environments (–40°C to 125°C). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust POL converter with non-latched thermal and overvoltage protection for unattended industrial deployments. Use Value: 0.6-V ±1% reference and –40°C to 125°C guaranteed operation ensure stable regulation across harsh factory-floor thermal cycles. |
Use Scenario: Powering video processing SoCs and DDR memory interfaces in premium 4K/8K smart TVs requiring ultra-low quiescent current and silent operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Eco-mode enabled buck regulator delivering <150-µA quiescent current in standby while maintaining fast wake-up response. Use Value: 146-µA IQ and prebiased start-up reduce system standby power by >30% versus comparable converters, meeting Energy Star Tier 3 requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous buck converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS56C215RNNR | Pin-to-pin compatible 12-A variant with identical package and pinout but lower peak current (13.5 A) and no external VREG5 bias option | Suitable for cost-sensitive POLs where 15-A peak current and external bias are not required | Choose TPS56C215RNNR when design prioritizes BOM cost reduction over maximum transient headroom and efficiency flexibility |
| TPS568231RNNT | 8-A rated variant in same RNN package; shares MODE pin configuration but reduced MOSFET RDS(on) (9.5 mΩ / 4.2 mΩ) and current limits | Targeted for lower-power FPGA I/O banks or peripheral rails where 12-A capability is excessive | Choose TPS568231RNNT when thermal budget or output current demand is ≤8 A and PCB layout reuse is critical |
Compared with TPS56C231RNNR, TPS56C215RNNR offers identical integration and layout compatibility at lower peak current and bias flexibility, while TPS568231RNNT provides scalable power delivery down to 8 A in the same footprint - enabling platform-based power design across performance tiers.
Availability
TPS56C231RNNR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for data center POL rails, wireless infrastructure baseband units, and industrial PLC I/O modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for TPS56C231RNNR 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 TPS56C231RNNR belongs to TI's high-density HotRod™ buck converter family, engineered specifically for space-constrained, high-current point-of-load applications in data centers, telecom, and industrial automation.
FAQ
What input voltage range does the TPS56C231RNNR support?
The TPS56C231RNNR supports a 3.8-V to 17-V input range when using external 5-V bias on the VREG5 pin, and a 4.5-V to 17-V range with internal bias only. This makes TPS56C231RNNR suitable for both 5-V and 12-V intermediate bus architectures common in enterprise servers and telecom equipment.
How is the switching frequency configured on the TPS56C231RNNR?
The TPS56C231RNNR switching frequency is set via a resistor divider on the MODE pin: 400 kHz (MODE = AGND), 800 kHz (MODE = 1.2 V), or 1200 kHz (MODE = 2.4 V). This configuration also selects Eco-mode or FCCM operation and the current limit threshold (14.7 A or 17 A), all without additional control signals.
Does the TPS56C231RNNR require external compensation components?
No, the TPS56C231RNNR uses D-CAP3™ adaptive on-time control with internal ripple injection, eliminating the need for external compensation networks. This simplifies design, reduces BOM count, and maintains stability across ceramic output capacitors - a key advantage of the TPS56C231RNNR in high-density layouts.
What thermal performance can be expected from the TPS56C231RNNR in a typical layout?
On a standard TI evaluation module, the TPS56C231RNNR achieves RθJA = 27°C/W. With proper PCB copper area (≥4 cm² thermal pad exposure) and 2 oz. copper, the device sustains 12-A continuous output at ambient temperatures up to 70°C without forced airflow - a verified thermal characteristic of the TPS56C231RNNR in production-grade designs.
Can the TPS56C231RNNR operate with prebiased outputs?
Yes, the TPS56C231RNNR supports prebiased start-up, allowing the output capacitor to retain voltage during power cycling. This prevents reverse current flow and ensures reliable restart in systems with powered-backup rails or cascaded converters - a confirmed feature of the TPS56C231RNNR per its functional description and test data.
TPS56C231RNNR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 18-PowerVFQFN
- 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):
- 3.8V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 17V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 0.6V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 5.5V
- Current - Output:
- 12A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 400kHz, 800kHz, 1.2MHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- Yes
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 18-VQFN-HR (3.5x3.5)
TPS56C231RNNR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TPS56C231RNNR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TPS56C231RNNR 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 TPS56C231RNNR reliable?
The price and inventory of TPS56C231RNNR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TPS56C231RNNR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TPS56C231RNNR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TPS56C231RNNR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TPS56C231RNNR?
TPS56C231RNNR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TPS56C231RNNR 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 TPS56C231RNNR?
For technical support, including TPS56C231RNNR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TPS56C231RNNR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TPS56C231RNNR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TPS56C231RNNR 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 TPS56C231RNNR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TPS56C231RNNR?
All TPS56C231RNNR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TPS56C231RNNR, 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 TPS56C231RNNR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TPS56C231RNNR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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