Texas Instruments TPS61030RSAR

Overview

TPS61030RSAR from Texas Instruments is a synchronous boost DC-DC converter IC designed for single-cell Li-ion or dual/triple-cell alkaline/NiMH battery-powered systems. It delivers up to 1000 mA output current at 5 V from as low as 1.8 V input, features 96% peak efficiency, 600 kHz fixed-frequency PWM control, and integrated low-battery comparator with LBI/LBO pins. It is used in portable audio players, PDAs, and handheld instrumentation requiring compact, high-efficiency step-up regulation.

For engineers reviewing the TPS61030RSAR datasheet, TPS61030RSAR pinout, TPS61030RSAR application, or TPS61030RSAR equivalent, key selection criteria include its 4 A switch current limit, 500 mV feedback reference, Power Save mode operation, QFN-16 thermal performance (RθJA = 35.5°C/W), and compatibility with 6.8 µH inductors and ceramic output capacitors.

Technical Context

The TPS61030RSAR implements a fixed-frequency, multiple feedforward PWM controller that monitors input voltage, output voltage, and NMOS switch voltage drop to directly adjust duty cycle-bypassing slow error-amplifier loop response for fast transient handling. Its synchronous rectification uses integrated N-channel and P-channel MOSFETs with separate PGND and GND pins to minimize ground shift and enable true load disconnect during shutdown.

It integrates antiringing circuitry on the SW node to suppress discontinuous-conduction-mode ringing, includes undervoltage lockout (~1.6 V), soft-start with precharge and current-limited startup, and supports external synchronization via the SYNC pin across 500–700 kHz. The LBI/LBO comparator operates only when EN is high and provides user-programmable low-battery detection with 10 mV hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS61030RSAR is housed in a thermally enhanced 4 mm × 4 mm QFN-16 package (RSA) with exposed PowerPAD™ soldered to PGND for optimal heat transfer. Pin numbering follows top-view standard; PowerPAD™ must be electrically and thermally connected to PGND plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous boost converter applications.

Compared with TPS61031RSAR, the TPS61030RSAR offers adjustable output voltage at the cost of two external resistors, while MAX77801EWL+T adds telemetry and configurability but increases footprint and bill-of-materials complexity - making TPS61030RSAR optimal for cost-sensitive, fixed-function portable devices requiring design simplicity and thermal efficiency.

Availability

TPS61030RSAR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical instruments, industrial handheld scanners, and wearable electronics requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and consistent parametric performance across production batches.

Supply support for TPS61030RSAR 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 battery-powered system solutions.

The TPS6103x product line was engineered specifically for high-efficiency, low-quiescent-current boost conversion in space-constrained portable equipment - emphasizing thermal robustness, load disconnect integrity, and seamless integration with common battery chemistries.

FAQ

What is the maximum output current capability of the TPS61030RSAR under real-world conditions?

The TPS61030RSAR delivers up to 1000 mA at 5 V output when input voltage is ≥2.4 V and ambient temperature is ≤60°C. At 1.8 V input, maximum continuous output current drops to ~650 mA due to increased duty cycle and thermal constraints. Peak switch current is limited to 4000 mA, but sustained output depends on PCB layout, inductor DCR, and thermal management - verified per Figure 1 and Figure 2 in SLUS534G.

How does the TPS61030RSAR achieve true load disconnect during shutdown?

The TPS61030RSAR uses a dedicated isolation circuit that disconnects the cathode of the internal high-side PMOS backgate diode from its source when EN is low. This prevents reverse current flow from VOUT to VBAT - unlike conventional synchronous rectifiers where the body diode remains forward-biased. As a result, no external blocking FET is needed, and battery drain is reduced to <1 µA during shutdown, as specified in Section 8.5.

Can the TPS61030RSAR operate without an external resistor divider on the FB pin?

No - the TPS61030RSAR is the adjustable-output variant and requires an external resistor divider between VOUT and FB to set output voltage. The FB pin has a 500 mV internal reference; omitting the divider results in unregulated, unstable output. In contrast, TPS61031RSAR and TPS61032RSAR have fixed outputs and do not use the FB pin. Always verify R3/R4 values using Equation 1 from Section 11.2.2.1 of SLUS534G.

What is the purpose of the separate PGND and GND pins on the TPS61030RSAR?

PGND (Pins 5,6,7) carries high-frequency, high-current return paths for the internal NMOS switch and inductor, minimizing noise coupling into control circuitry. GND (Pin 13) serves as the quiet reference for FB, EN, SYNC, and LBI inputs. Both must connect to the same ground plane at a single point near the GND pin - separating these paths prevents ground bounce from degrading regulation accuracy and comparator stability, as detailed in Section 13.1 Layout Considerations.

Does the TPS61030RSAR support external clock synchronization, and what are the valid frequency ranges?

Yes - applying a square-wave clock signal to the SYNC pin forces the TPS61030RSAR to operate at that frequency. Valid input is 500–700 kHz with 30–70% duty cycle, per Section 8.5 Electrical Characteristics. This feature enables EMI reduction by shifting switching noise away from sensitive bands or aligning with system clocks. When SYNC is pulled high (VBAT), Power Save mode is disabled; when pulled low (GND), Power Save mode is enabled.