Texas Instruments TPS61202DSCTG4

Overview

TPS61202DSCTG4 from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output 5-V synchronous boost converter IC designed for single-cell Li-ion, alkaline, NiMH, or fuel-cell power sources. It delivers up to 600 mA at 5 V with input as low as 0.3 V, features automatic boost-to-down-conversion mode transition, and integrates 1.3-A synchronous switches in a 3 mm × 3 mm VSON-10 package for portable medical devices and cellular handsets.

For engineers reviewing the TPS61202DSCTG4 datasheet, TPS61202DSCTG4 pinout, TPS61202DSCTG4 application, or TPS61202DSCTG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 5-V fixed output, 0.3–5.5-V input range, Power Save mode control via PS pin, undervoltage lockout programmability, and thermal shutdown protection - all critical for battery-powered systems requiring stable rail generation below 1 V startup.

Technical Context

The TPS61202DSCTG4 implements an average current-mode PWM controller with input/output voltage feedforward for fast transient response. Its three-NMOS synchronous topology enables both boost operation (VIN < VOUT) and automatic down-conversion (VIN ≥ VOUT), where rectifier switch conduction is modulated to regulate output - increasing losses but maintaining regulation without external components.

It integrates dual ground domains (GND for logic, PGND for power switching), a dedicated VAUX supply rail for internal biasing, and a programmable UVLO comparator input (UVLO pin). Startup into full load occurs at 0.5 V VIN, and soft-start limits inrush by ramping current limit from 400 mA to 1350 mA as VOUT rises to 1.2 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS61202DSCTG4 uses a 3 mm × 3 mm VSON-10 package with exposed thermal pad (soldered to PGND for thermal and mechanical integrity). Pin 1 is VAUX; pin 2 is VOUT; pin 3 is L (inductor connection); pin 4 is PGND; pin 5 is VIN; pin 6 is EN; pin 7 is UVLO; pin 8 is PS; pin 9 is GND; pin 10 is FB. The exposed thermal pad is not electrically isolated and must be connected to PGND.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS61202DSCTG4, TPS61201DSC offers identical performance at 3.3 V with full pin compatibility, while TPS61099YFFR trades down-conversion and higher output current for nanoamp-level quiescent draw - making it optimal for long-life coin-cell designs but unsuitable for solar or multi-cell alkaline systems.

Availability

TPS61202DSCTG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical devices, solar-powered IoT nodes, USB peripherals, and white LED backlighting requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for TPS61202DSCTG4 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 delivering analog, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and personal electronics markets.

The TPS6120x family was engineered specifically for ultra-low-input-voltage boost conversion in battery- and energy-harvesting-powered portable systems - emphasizing startup below 1 V, integrated protection, and seamless mode transition without external control logic.

FAQ

What is the exact output voltage tolerance of the TPS61202DSCTG4?

The TPS61202DSCTG4 provides a fixed nominal output voltage of 5.0 V with a guaranteed tolerance of ±1%, corresponding to 4.95 V to 5.05 V under all recommended operating conditions. This tight regulation is achieved using an internal trimmed resistive divider and a 500-mV reference voltage at the FB pin, ensuring stable 5-V rail generation for USB peripherals and logic interfaces without external feedback components.

Can the TPS61202DSCTG4 operate when input voltage exceeds 5 V?

Yes, the TPS61202DSCTG4 automatically transitions into Down Conversion mode when VIN reaches or exceeds VOUT (5 V), regulating output by modulating the synchronous rectifier switches. This allows stable 5-V output from inputs up to 5.5 V - such as fully charged Li-ion cells (4.2 V) or USB bus voltage - without external components. Efficiency decreases in this mode due to increased conduction losses, requiring attention to thermal design.

How does the PS pin affect efficiency and noise in the TPS61202DSCTG4?

When the PS pin is pulled low, the TPS61202DSCTG4 enters Power Save mode, reducing switching frequency at light loads to maintain >85% efficiency down to 100 μA output current. When PS is high, it forces fixed 1.25–1.65 MHz operation, improving output voltage ripple and EMI predictability but increasing light-load quiescent current to ~70 μA. The choice depends on whether battery life or signal integrity is prioritized.

Is the FB pin required to be connected for the TPS61202DSCTG4?

Yes, the FB pin must be connected directly to VOUT on the TPS61202DSCTG4. Although it is a fixed-output variant with internal feedback resistors, the datasheet explicitly requires FB to be shorted to VOUT to ensure proper regulation and stability. Leaving FB floating or unconnected risks output voltage inaccuracy, instability, or failure to regulate - unlike adjustable versions where FB connects to an external resistor divider.

What thermal considerations apply to the TPS61202DSCTG4 in a 3 mm × 3 mm VSON package?

The TPS61202DSCTG4 has a junction-to-board thermal resistance (RθJB) of 15.4°C/W and requires the exposed thermal pad to be soldered to a solid PGND copper area ≥30 mm². At 500 mA output into 5 V with 1.5-V input, power dissipation exceeds 1.2 W; without adequate copper pour and vias, junction temperature can exceed 125°C. Thermal shutdown activates at 140°C, but sustained operation above 105°C degrades long-term reliability - layout must prioritize thermal pad connectivity and airflow.