Texas Instruments TPS62026DRCR

Overview

TPS62026DRCR from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output 3.3-V, 600-mA synchronous step-down DC-DC converter in a 10-pin QFN (3 × 3 mm) PowerPad™ package. It operates from 2.5 V to 6.0 V input, delivers up to 95% efficiency at 1.25 MHz switching frequency, features power-save mode for light-load operation, and supports 100% duty cycle for ultra-low dropout - ideal for Li-Ion–powered portable systems requiring stable low-voltage rails.

For engineers reviewing the TPS62026DRCR datasheet, TPS62026DRCR pinout, TPS62026DRCR application, or TPS62026DRCR equivalent, key selection considerations include its fixed 3.3-V output, active-high MODE pin logic, integrated softstart, thermal shutdown protection, and compatibility with ceramic output capacitors as small as 10 µF in space-constrained PDA, notebook, and USB-powered modem designs.

Technical Context

The TPS62026DRCR implements a voltage-mode synchronous buck architecture with input voltage feed-forward control, enabling fast line/load transient response and stable regulation using small ceramic capacitors. Its internal 0.5-V reference and fixed 3.3-V output eliminate external feedback resistors - unlike adjustable variants TPS62020/TPS62021.

It operates in PWM mode at medium-to-heavy loads (1.25 MHz nominal) and automatically transitions to PFM-based power-save mode below ~10 mA load current, maintaining >85% efficiency down to 0.1 mA. The active-high MODE pin forces continuous PWM when pulled high, supporting noise-sensitive applications requiring fixed-frequency filtering.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS62026DRCR uses a thermally enhanced 10-pin QFN (3 mm × 3 mm, 0.5-mm pitch) with exposed PowerPAD™ thermal pad soldered to PCB ground plane for optimal heat dissipation (R_θJA = 48.7°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS62021DRCR and TPS62231DRCR, the TPS62026DRCR uniquely combines fixed 3.3-V output, active-high MODE logic, and 100% duty cycle capability - making it the optimal choice for cost-sensitive, battery-deep-discharge portable systems requiring zero external feedback components.

Availability

TPS62026DRCR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PDA power management, USB modem regulation, and notebook subsystem supply requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and full traceability.

Supply support for TPS62026DRCR 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 50 years of innovation in energy-efficient power conversion.

The TPS6202x family was designed specifically for high-efficiency, low-noise, battery-powered portable electronics - emphasizing small solution size, wide input range, and seamless light-load efficiency preservation.

FAQ

What is the output voltage tolerance of the TPS62026DRCR under full load?

The TPS62026DRCR delivers a fixed 3.3-V output with ±3% tolerance across the full operating range: 2.5 V to 6.0 V input, –40°C to 85°C ambient, and 0–600 mA load. This specification is guaranteed by internal trimming of the 0.5-V reference and feedback network, and confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Fixed output voltage" test conditions.

Does the TPS62026DRCR require external feedback resistors?

No, the TPS62026DRCR does not require external feedback resistors. As a fixed-output variant, its internal feedback network is factory-trimmed for 3.3 V, and the FB pin is internally connected to the output. Per the datasheet, FB must be shorted to V_OUT - adding external resistors would disrupt regulation and is not supported.

How does the MODE pin function on the TPS62026DRCR?

The MODE pin on the TPS62026DRCR is active-high: pulling it high forces continuous PWM mode (1.25 MHz), while pulling it low enables automatic PWM/PFM transition. This differs from TPS62021 (active-low MODE). The pin accepts standard 3.3-V logic levels and draws only 0.01–1.0 µA bias current, allowing direct MCU GPIO control without buffering.

Can the TPS62026DRCR operate with input voltage equal to output voltage?

Yes, the TPS62026DRCR supports 100% duty cycle operation, enabling regulation even when V_IN = V_OUT = 3.3 V. This occurs when the input drops near the output voltage - the P-channel MOSFET remains fully on, minimizing dropout loss. The minimum functional V_IN depends on load current and r_DS(on), per Equation 2 in the datasheet.

What thermal performance can be expected from the TPS62026DRCR in a standard 2-layer PCB?

In a standard 2-layer PCB with 1-in² copper pour connected to the PowerPAD™ via ≥4 thermal vias, the TPS62026DRCR achieves R_θJA ≈ 48.7°C/W. At 600 mA and 3.6 V_IN/3.3 V_OUT, power dissipation is ~180 mW, resulting in ~9°C junction-to-ambient rise - well within the –40°C to 125°C operating junction range without heatsinking.