Texas Instruments TPS61236RWLR

Overview

TPS61236RWLR from Texas Instruments is a synchronous boost converter IC designed for single-cell Li-ion/Li-polymer battery-powered portable devices, delivering up to 3.5 A output current at 5 V from 3.3 V input, featuring programmable constant output current, 1-MHz switching frequency, and 97% peak efficiency. It integrates dual 14-mΩ power switches and supports adjustable output voltage from 2.9 V to 5.5 V.

For engineers reviewing the TPS61236RWLR datasheet, TPS61236RWLR pinout, TPS61236RWLR application, or TPS61236RWLR equivalent, key selection considerations include its valley-current-mode control architecture, CC pin-based current programming interface, true input-output disconnection in shutdown, and VQFN-9 (2.5 mm × 2.5 mm) thermal performance with R_θJA = 28.7°C/W.

Technical Context

The TPS61236RWLR employs valley-current-mode PWM control with quasi-constant on-time operation at heavy loads and transitions to PFM mode under light load to maintain high efficiency. Its dual regulation loops independently manage output voltage (via FB pin) and output current (via CC pin feedback), enabling precise CV/CC operation.

It features integrated soft-start with pre-charge phase limiting startup current to ≤0.8 A, cycle-by-cycle valley current limiting (6.5–9.5 A), overvoltage protection (5.6–5.93 V), and thermal shutdown at 140°C with 15°C hysteresis - all implemented without external components beyond RCC, C_CC, and feedback resistors.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS61236RWLR is housed in a thermally enhanced 9-pin VQFN package (RWL suffix), measuring 2.5 mm × 2.5 mm × 0.8 mm with exposed thermal pad. The package supports high-density PCB layouts and efficient heat dissipation via bottom-side thermal vias.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS61235P, the TPS61236RWLR adds output voltage adjustability and retains full CV/CC functionality; compared with MP28164GQ-Z, it integrates current programming, load status indication, and protection features - reducing total component count by ≥6 and simplifying USB-compliant power design.

Availability

TPS61236RWLR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power banks, USB Type-C source implementations, and battery-powered tablet PCs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

Supply support for TPS61236RWLR 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 over 90 years of innovation in high-reliability electronic components.

The TPS6123x product line was engineered specifically for high-current, high-efficiency portable power conversion - targeting USB charging, power banks, and Li-ion-powered consumer electronics with minimal external component count.

FAQ

What is the recommended inductor value for TPS61236RWLR in a 3.3 V to 5 V application?

The TPS61236RWLR datasheet specifies an effective inductance range of 0.7 µH to 1.3 µH, with 1 µH being the nominal recommendation. For 3.3 V to 5 V conversion at 3.5 A, a shielded 1 µH, 5.5 A saturation-current inductor with ≤25 mΩ DCR ensures optimal efficiency and thermal performance while maintaining stability across temperature and load.

How does the CC pin function in TPS61236RWLR, and what resistor value sets 2 A output current?

The CC pin in TPS61236RWLR provides both constant-current programming and output current monitoring. To set 2 A output current, connect a 61.9 kΩ resistor from CC to AGND. This leverages the internal 1.244 V reference and 100,000 scaling factor per Equation 2 in the datasheet, yielding ±10% accuracy at 25°C.

Does TPS61236RWLR support true load disconnect during shutdown, and what is the leakage current?

Yes, TPS61236RWLR implements true input-output disconnection during shutdown: both internal power switches turn off, blocking forward and reverse current paths. Shutdown current into VIN is specified at 0.01–3 µA across –40°C to 85°C, ensuring negligible battery drain in storage or standby modes.

Can TPS61236RWLR operate with input voltage close to output voltage, and what happens in pass-through mode?

TPS61236RWLR enters pass-through mode when VIN approaches VOUT (within 0.6 V), turning off switching and conducting through the low-side MOSFET. In this mode, output current is limited to the pre-charge current (≤0.8 A), and output voltage may drop >0.4 V below nominal. For stable regulation, keep VIN at least 0.6 V below VOUT.

What thermal management guidance applies to TPS61236RWLR in a 2.5 mm × 2.5 mm VQFN package?

TPS61236RWLR has R_θJA = 28.7°C/W and R_θJC(bottom) = 1.6°C/W. Effective thermal design requires soldering the exposed thermal pad to ≥4 thermal vias (0.3 mm diameter) connected to an internal or bottom-layer copper pour. With 2-in² 2-oz copper, junction temperature rise stays <35°C at 3.5 A continuous load.