Texas Instruments TPS61240TDRVRQ1

Overview

TPS61240TDRVRQ1 from Texas Instruments is an AEC-Q100 Grade 2 automotive-qualified synchronous step-up DC-DC converter delivering a fixed 5 V output from 2.3 V–5.5 V input, supporting up to 450 mA output current with >90% efficiency at nominal load, and featuring load disconnect during shutdown for battery-sensitive ADAS camera modules.

For engineers reviewing the TPS61240TDRVRQ1 datasheet, TPS61240TDRVRQ1 pinout, TPS61240TDRVRQ1 application, or TPS61240TDRVRQ1 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 3.5-MHz quasi-constant on-time valley current mode control, –40°C to +105°C ambient operating range, 250 μs typical soft-start time, and WSON-6 package with exposed thermal pad for thermal reliability in space-constrained automotive ECUs.

Technical Context

The TPS61240TDRVRQ1 implements a quasi-constant on-time valley current mode control architecture that enables fast line/load transient response and stable operation with small ceramic capacitors (2.2 µF CIN, 4.7 µF COUT) and a 1 µH MLCC inductor. Its internal resistor divider sets a fixed 5 V ±2% output without external feedback components.

It operates in automatic PFM/PWM transition mode: PWM at moderate-to-heavy loads (≥50 mA), PFM at light loads (<10 mA) to maintain <40 µA quiescent current; shutdown current is ≤2.5 µA. The device integrates high-side (290 mΩ) and low-side (250 mΩ) MOSFETs, undervoltage lockout (2.1 V rising), input overvoltage protection (6 V threshold), and thermal shutdown (140°C, 20°C hysteresis).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS61240TDRVRQ1 is housed in a thermally enhanced 2 mm × 2 mm WSON-6 package with exposed thermal pad (DRV variant). The pad must be soldered to PCB copper for reliable thermal dissipation (R_θJB = 37.5°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-up converter applications.

Compared with TPS61240TDRVRQ1, the TPS61240IDRVRQ1 offers identical electrical performance but reduced thermal rating, while the LM61480-Q1 provides greater flexibility at the cost of larger size, higher BOM count, and increased complexity-neither is pin-compatible, and both require PCB redesign.

Availability

TPS61240TDRVRQ1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), automotive infotainment head units, and body electronics requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and automotive lifecycle demands.

Supply support for TPS61240TDRVRQ1 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 company designing analog ICs, embedded processors, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and personal electronics markets.

The TPS61240-Q1 product line delivers high-efficiency, small-footprint boost converters optimized for automotive-grade power management in camera, radar, and display subsystems where space, thermal, and reliability constraints dominate.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current supported by the TPS61240TDRVRQ1?

The TPS61240TDRVRQ1 supports up to 450 mA of continuous output current under recommended operating conditions (VIN ≥2.3 V, TA ≤+105°C). This value is validated per TI's datasheet Section 6.5 and reflects the device's ability to sustain full load while maintaining thermal stability and output regulation within ±2% of 5 V. The actual achievable current depends on input voltage, ambient temperature, and PCB thermal design.

Does the TPS61240TDRVRQ1 require external feedback resistors to set the output voltage?

No, the TPS61240TDRVRQ1 features an internal resistor divider that fixes the output voltage at 5 V ±2%. The FB pin is internally connected to this network and must be shorted directly to VOUT-no external resistors or compensation components are needed. This simplifies layout, reduces BOM count, and improves long-term stability versus adjustable alternatives.

How does the TPS61240TDRVRQ1 achieve load disconnect during shutdown?

The TPS61240TDRVRQ1 uses integrated high-side and low-side MOSFETs to physically isolate the VOUT pin from VIN when EN is pulled low. Unlike basic boost converters that leak through the inductor and rectifier path, this architecture presents high impedance at VOUT, reducing reverse current to ≤2.5 µA. This feature is confirmed in Section 7.3.6 of the TPS61240-Q1 datasheet and is critical for battery longevity in automotive standby modes.

What is the purpose of the exposed thermal pad on the TPS61240TDRVRQ1 WSON package?

The exposed thermal pad on the TPS61240TDRVRQ1's 2 mm × 2 mm WSON-6 package serves as the primary thermal conduction path from the die to the PCB. When soldered to a dedicated copper pour, it achieves R_θJB = 37.5°C/W (junction-to-board), enabling reliable operation at full load in +105°C ambient. TI's datasheet Section 6.4 and Layout Guidelines (Section 10) mandate pad connection for thermal compliance and long-term reliability.

Can the TPS61240TDRVRQ1 operate with a 1 µH inductor, and why is this value specified?

Yes, the TPS61240TDRVRQ1 is specifically characterized and optimized for use with a 1 µH shielded MLCC inductor (e.g., TDK VLS201610HBX-1R0M). Its 3.5-MHz switching frequency allows this small inductance to maintain stable valley current mode control while minimizing peak-to-peak ripple and physical footprint. Using larger inductors degrades transient response and may trigger premature current limiting per Section 8.2.2.2 of the datasheet.