Texas Instruments TPS61042DRBT
- Part No.:
- TPS61042DRBT
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 8-VDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
TPS61042DRBT.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRVR RGLTR PWM 60MA 8SON
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,726
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
TPS61042DRBT from Texas Instruments is a constant-current boost LED driver IC with integrated 30 V/500 mA main switch and 60 mA LED switch, regulating LED current via 252 mV feedback reference across external sense resistor RS, supporting 1.8 V–6 V input and up to 27.5 V output for driving 4–8 white LEDs in series in handheld display backlight applications.
For engineers reviewing the TPS61042DRBT datasheet, TPS61042DRBT pinout, TPS61042DRBT application, or TPS61042DRBT equivalent, key selection considerations include PWM brightness control (100 Hz–50 kHz), OVP threshold (27.5–30 V), no-load quiescent current (38 µA), shutdown current (0.1 µA), and 3 mm × 3 mm SON-8 package thermal performance (RθJA = 48.6 °C/W).
Technical Context
The TPS61042DRBT implements pulse-frequency modulation (PFM) with peak-current control (500 mA typ), operating in discontinuous conduction mode (DCM) where switching frequency varies with load, input/output voltage, and inductor value-enabling high efficiency (up to 85%) across wide LED current range without external compensation. Its dual-switch architecture separates power conversion (Q1) from LED current path (Q2), allowing independent control and true LED disconnection during shutdown.
Feedback regulation targets 252 mV (typ) across RS to set LED current; overvoltage protection triggers at 27.5–30 V on OVP pin to disable Q1; CTRL pin serves dual role-enable/disable (50 µs high / 32 ms low) and direct PWM dimming (1%–100% duty cycle) with 400 ns error-comparator blanking after Q2 turn-on.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 6 V - supports single-cell Li-ion, NiMH, or alkaline battery operation without pre-regulation. |
| LED Current Accuracy | Regulated by 244–260 mV FB reference - sets ±3% typical LED current tolerance via RS selection. |
| Switching Frequency | Up to 1 MHz - enables use of compact 4.7 µH inductors and 100 nF output capacitors. |
| Efficiency | Up to 85% - measured at 4 LEDs ≈13 V, VI = 3.6 V, IO = 15 mA, CO = 1 µF. |
| OVP Threshold | 27.5 V to 30 V - protects internal 30 V Q1 switch and external LEDs from open-circuit overvoltage. |
| Shutdown Current | 0.1 µA typ - minimizes battery drain in always-on portable devices during display-off state. |
| Package Thermal Resistance | RθJA = 48.6 °C/W - enables 600 mW dissipation in 25°C ambient with standard PCB layout. |
Pinout & Package
TPS61042DRBT uses a thermally enhanced 3 mm × 3 mm SON-8 (DRB) package with exposed thermal die pad soldered to GND for optimal heat dissipation. Pin numbering follows top-view orientation with pin 1 at bottom-left corner.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| LED (Pin 1) | LED switch source | Connects cathodes of series-connected LEDs; Q2 opens fully during shutdown to eliminate leakage current. |
| RS (Pin 2) | Current sense return | Completes current path through external sense resistor RS; voltage across RS regulated to 252 mV. |
| VIN (Pin 3) | Main power input | Supplies boost converter; accepts 1.8–6 V with UVLO activation below 1.5 V (typ). |
| FB (Pin 4) | Feedback input | High-impedance MOSFET gate input monitoring RS voltage; regulates LED current via 252 mV reference. |
| CTRL (Pin 5) | Enable/PWM control | 50 µs high enables device; 32 ms low disables it; 100 Hz–50 kHz PWM directly modulates Q2 for linear brightness control. |
| GND (Pin 6) | Power ground | Reference for VIN, RS, and CTRL; connected to exposed thermal pad for thermal and electrical integrity. |
| OVP (Pin 7) | Overvoltage monitor | Monitors output capacitor voltage; disables Q1 when >27.5 V to prevent switch overstress. |
| SW (Pin 8) | Boost switch drain | Drain of internal 30 V/500 mA MOSFET Q1; connects to inductor and Schottky diode anode. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated dual-MOSFET architecture | Separates boost conversion (Q1) and LED current path (Q2), enabling true LED disconnection and eliminating reverse leakage during shutdown. |
| PWM brightness control with no frequency dependency | LED current scales linearly with CTRL duty cycle (1%–100%), independent of PWM frequency or amplitude-simplifies MCU GPIO dimming design. |
| Small-output-capacitor operation | Stable with CO ≥ 100 nF; larger values (≥1 µF) reduce LED ripple current and improve line regulation per application note. |
| Programmable LED current via single resistor | IO = 0.252 V / RS - e.g., 13 Ω sets 19.4 mA; eliminates need for DAC or current mirror circuitry. |
| Thermal and safety protections | Includes undervoltage lockout (1.5 V), overvoltage protection (27.5–30 V), and thermal shutdown (>160 °C junction). |
Applications
| Smartphone Backlight | PDA Display Sidelight |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Driving 6 white LEDs in series for high-brightness front-panel LCD backlight in space-constrained smartphones. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current boost controller regulating LED string current while accepting variable battery voltage (3.0–4.2 V) and enabling dynamic brightness scaling via host MCU PWM. Use Value: Achieves 84% efficiency at 3.6 V input/19 mA output with 4.7 µH inductor and 1 µF CO, minimizing thermal load in sealed enclosure. |
Use Scenario: Powering edge-lit monochrome LCD in legacy PDA with limited PCB area and single-cell alkaline supply (1.8–3.2 V). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-quiescent-current (38 µA) LED driver providing stable current despite falling battery voltage, with analog brightness control option via external resistive divider. Use Value: Maintains consistent luminance across battery discharge curve using 252 mV precision FB reference and 0.1 µA shutdown current. |
| Handheld Medical Device Indicator | Industrial HMI Status Light |
Use Scenario: Driving high-reliability status LEDs in battery-powered portable diagnostic equipment requiring long shelf life and ESD-hardened operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: LED current source with ±2000 V HBM ESD rating and integrated OVP, ensuring robustness against accidental open-circuit faults during field servicing. Use Value: Prevents LED or IC damage during connector hot-plug events via 30 V OVP clamp and 30 V internal switch rating. |
Use Scenario: Illuminating panel-mounted status indicators in industrial HMIs powered from 5 V rail with strict EMC and thermal constraints. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Compact (3 mm × 3 mm) LED driver enabling dense LED arrays without heatsinks, supporting PWM dimming synchronized to PLC scan cycles. Use Value: Delivers 82.7% efficiency at 3.0 V/19 mA with 1.0 mm total system height (LPO1704–472 inductor + 100 nF CO), meeting IPC-7351B footprint requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar constant-current LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS61040DRBT | Same pinout and package; lower max output voltage (20 V vs 27.5 V); identical FB reference (252 mV) and CTRL interface. | Restricted to ≤5 white LEDs (≈15 V) instead of 8 LEDs (≈27 V); suitable only where output voltage headroom is constrained. | Select TPS61040DRBT only if system requires <20 V output and benefits from TI's longer production history (introduced 2002 vs TPS61042 2004). |
| MAX16832ATA+T | 4 mm × 4 mm TDFN-10; higher max switch voltage (40 V); fixed 200 kHz PWM (not PFM); requires external current-sense amplifier. | Supports higher-voltage LED strings and automotive 12 V input; lacks true shutdown disconnect and has higher quiescent current (120 µA). | Choose MAX16832ATA+T for 12 V input systems or where deterministic switching frequency is required for EMI filtering; avoid for battery life-critical designs. |
Compared with TPS61042DRBT, TPS61040DRBT offers identical functionality at reduced output voltage capability, while MAX16832ATA+T trades PFM efficiency and ultra-low shutdown current for higher voltage rating and fixed-frequency operation-making TPS61042DRBT optimal for portable 1.8–6 V battery-powered LED strings requiring maximum runtime and fault resilience.
Availability
TPS61042DRBT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone backlight, PDA display sidelight, handheld medical device indicator, and industrial HMI status light applications requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for TPS61042DRBT 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 designing analog, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and personal electronics markets.
The TPS61042DRBT belongs to TI's constant-current LED driver product line, engineered specifically for high-efficiency, low-profile backlighting of portable displays using single-cell batteries and minimal external components.
FAQ
What is the recommended inductor value for TPS61042DRBT in a typical 4-LED backlight application?
The TPS61042DRBT datasheet specifies 4.7 µH as the standard inductor value for 4-white-LED configurations (≈13 V output). This value balances switching frequency (~1 MHz), efficiency (82.7% at 3.0 V/19 mA), and physical size (e.g., Sumida CDRH3D16–4R7 or Coilcraft LPO1704–472). Larger inductors reduce peak current stress but lower frequency and increase size; smaller values raise frequency and losses. Always verify thermal performance with actual board layout.
How does the TPS61042DRBT achieve LED current regulation without a current-sense amplifier?
The TPS61042DRBT regulates LED current by directly measuring the voltage across the external sense resistor RS via the FB pin, which is internally compared to a precise 252 mV reference. The error signal controls the main switch (Q1) to maintain this voltage-thus setting IO = 0.252 V / RS. This architecture eliminates external amplifiers, reduces BOM count, and avoids gain/offset errors inherent in discrete sensing circuits.
Can the TPS61042DRBT drive more than 8 white LEDs, and what limits the maximum string voltage?
No-the TPS61042DRBT is rated for maximum output voltage of 27.5 V, limiting practical use to ≤8 standard white LEDs (3.3–3.5 V each). Exceeding this risks triggering OVP (27.5–30 V threshold) and disabling Q1. The 30 V internal switch rating and OVP circuit enforce this hard limit; attempting higher voltages causes repeated shutdown/restart cycling and potential thermal stress. For >8 LEDs, consider TPS61165 or similar higher-voltage drivers.
What is the minimum PWM frequency supported on the CTRL pin of TPS61042DRBT, and why is 100 Hz the lower bound?
The TPS61042DRBT supports PWM frequencies from 100 Hz to 50 kHz on the CTRL pin. The 100 Hz lower bound ensures the off-time (≥10 ms at 100 Hz) does not exceed the 32 ms shutdown timeout-preventing unintended device disable. At frequencies below 100 Hz, extended off-periods force the IC into shutdown mode, breaking dimming control. This behavior is defined by the CTRL timing specification (toff ≥32 ms for shutdown).
Does the TPS61042DRBT require an external Schottky diode, and what are the key selection criteria?
Yes-the TPS61042DRBT requires an external Schottky diode (e.g., ZHCS400) between SW and output capacitor. Key selection criteria include: 30 V+ reverse voltage rating (to withstand 27.5 V output + margin), low forward voltage (<0.4 V at peak LED current) to minimize loss, fast recovery (<10 ns) to match 1 MHz switching, and thermal capability matching board copper area. Diode placement must minimize loop inductance to reduce EMI and voltage spikes.
TPS61042DRBT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-VDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- DC DC Regulator
- Topology:
- Step-Up (Boost)
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 1.8V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 6V
- Voltage - Output:
- 27.5V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 60mA (Switch)
- Frequency:
- 1MHz
- Dimming:
- PWM
- Applications:
- Backlight
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SON (3x3)
TPS61042DRBT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TPS61042DRBT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TPS61042DRBT 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 TPS61042DRBT reliable?
The price and inventory of TPS61042DRBT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TPS61042DRBT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TPS61042DRBT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TPS61042DRBT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TPS61042DRBT?
TPS61042DRBT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TPS61042DRBT 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 TPS61042DRBT?
For technical support, including TPS61042DRBT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TPS61042DRBT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TPS61042DRBT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TPS61042DRBT 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 TPS61042DRBT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TPS61042DRBT?
All TPS61042DRBT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TPS61042DRBT, 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 TPS61042DRBT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TPS61042DRBT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TPS61042DRBT Tags

-
BCR402RE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR430UXTSA2
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR420UE6433HTMA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR420UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR421UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
LYT1604D-TL
Power Integrations

-
HV9910CLG-G
Microchip Technology

-
CL2N8-G
Microchip Technology

-
BCR420UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR421UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR420UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR421UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

