Texas Instruments TPS62122DRVT

Overview

TPS62122DRVT from Texas Instruments is a synchronous step-down DC-DC converter optimized for ultra-low-power applications, delivering up to 75 mA output current with input voltage range of 2 V to 15 V, 96% peak efficiency, and 11-µA quiescent current in power-save mode. It serves as a primary voltage regulator in energy harvesting nodes and low-power RF subsystems.

For engineers reviewing the TPS62122DRVT datasheet, TPS62122DRVT pinout, TPS62122DRVT application, or TPS62122DRVT equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2-mm × 2-mm DFN-6 package, absence of power-good and SGND discharge outputs (vs. TPS62120), adjustable 1.2–5.5 V output, and hysteretic PFM/PWM control enabling stable regulation down to 10 µA load.

Technical Context

The TPS62122DRVT employs a hysteretic control architecture that automatically transitions between pulse frequency modulation (PFM) at light loads and quasi-fixed-frequency PWM at higher loads-enabling high efficiency across 10 µA–75 mA output range without external compensation. Its internal 0.8-V reference and feedback comparator directly regulate output via external resistor divider on FB pin.

This device integrates synchronous high-side and low-side MOSFETs (R_DS(ON) = 1.75 Ω / 1.2 Ω typical at 8 V), supports 100% duty cycle for ultra-low dropout operation, and features thermal shutdown (150°C) and undervoltage lockout (2.5 V rising / 1.85 V falling thresholds).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS62122DRVT uses a 6-pin 2-mm × 2-mm SON (DFN) package with exposed thermal pad (connected to GND). Pin 1 is SW; Pin 2 is VOUT; Pin 3 is FB; Pin 4 is GND; Pin 5 is VIN; Pin 6 is EN. The thermal pad must be soldered to a GND plane for thermal and electrical integrity.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS62120DRVR, TPS62122DRVT reduces footprint by 44% and eliminates two unused pins, simplifying layout; versus TPS62740DSSR, it provides broader input range and true low-dropout operation-making it optimal for industrial and energy-harvesting inputs where voltage varies widely.

Availability

TPS62122DRVT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor nodes, energy harvesting interfaces, and industrial process transmitters requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceability.

Supply support for TPS62122DRVT 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 ICs, with decades of expertise in high-efficiency DC-DC conversion and low-power system design.

The TPS6212x product line was designed specifically for ultra-low-power, wide-input-voltage applications-including energy harvesting, battery-operated RF sensors, and industrial transmitters-where minimal quiescent current and robust regulation under variable input are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for TPS62122DRVT to start switching?

The TPS62122DRVT requires a minimum input voltage of 2.5 V (rising UVLO threshold) to initiate switching. Below this level, the device remains in shutdown regardless of EN pin state. Once VIN exceeds 2.5 V, the regulator starts up within 150 µs and enters soft-start ramp. The part remains functional down to 1.85 V (falling UVLO threshold) but will not restart until VIN rises above 2.5 V again. This ensures reliable startup from weak sources like piezoelectric harvesters.

Does TPS62122DRVT support output voltages below 1.2 V?

No, TPS62122DRVT does not support output voltages below 1.2 V. Its feedback architecture references an internal 0.8-V bandgap, and the datasheet specifies a minimum output voltage of 1.2 V-corresponding to a feedback divider ratio of 0.5 (R2 = 2×R1). Attempting to set V_OUT < 1.2 V violates the recommended operating conditions and may cause regulation instability or excessive error due to FB comparator offset limitations.

Can TPS62122DRVT operate with a 10-µH inductor instead of the recommended 22-µH?

Yes, TPS62122DRVT can operate with a 10-µH inductor, but peak inductor current increases by ~120%, raising RMS losses and potentially reducing efficiency at mid-to-high loads. The minimum recommended inductance is 10 µH per datasheet Section 7.3; however, 22 µH is preferred for optimal PFM-mode ripple and EMI performance. With 10 µH, ensure the inductor's saturation current exceeds 250 mA and its DC resistance is ≤150 mΩ to maintain thermal safety at 75 mA output.

Is an external feedforward capacitor (Cff) required for TPS62122DRVT stability?

Yes, an external feedforward capacitor (Cff) is required for stable regulation across all loads and input voltages. Per Section 9.2.1.2.1, Cff (typically 22 pF) placed across R1 in the feedback divider introduces a zero that compensates phase loss from the output capacitor's ESR and inductor, preventing oscillation. Omitting Cff risks output voltage overshoot during load transients and potential instability-especially with low-ESR ceramic capacitors commonly used with TPS62122DRVT.

How does TPS62122DRVT handle pre-biased output capacitors during startup?

TPS62122DRVT supports startup into a pre-biased output capacitor-a critical feature for hot-swap or redundant power systems. When EN is asserted while VOUT is already biased (e.g., 2.5 V), the device begins regulating from that voltage rather than forcing a hard ramp from 0 V. Internal circuitry detects the pre-bias and adjusts soft-start timing accordingly, avoiding reverse current flow into the output and preventing damage to downstream components. This behavior is confirmed in Section 8.4.1 of the datasheet.