Texas Instruments TPS62238DRYT

Overview

TPS62238DRYT from Texas Instruments is a 2.25-V fixed-output, 3-MHz synchronous step-down DC-DC converter in a 1-mm × 1.5-mm USON-6 package. It delivers up to 500 mA output current with 94% peak efficiency, 22-μA quiescent current in power-save mode, and supports input voltages from 2.05 V to 6 V - ideal for Li-ion or dual-alkaline powered portable audio and low-power wireless devices.

For engineers reviewing the TPS62238DRYT datasheet, TPS62238DRYT pinout, TPS62238DRYT application, or TPS62238DRYT equivalent, key selection criteria include its ultra-small 12-mm² solution size, forced-PWM capability via MODE pin, 0.7-V internal reference, ±2.5% output voltage accuracy over –40°C to 125°C, and compatibility with 2.2-μH inductors and 4.7-μF output capacitors.

Technical Context

The TPS62238DRYT employs a hysteretic PWM controller architecture enabling 3-MHz switching with excellent transient response and AC load regulation. Its integrated high-side (600–850 mΩ) and low-side (350–480 mΩ) MOSFETs support continuous conduction mode in forced-PWM and discontinuous mode in power-save operation.

It features automatic transition between pulse-width modulation (PWM) at medium/heavy loads and pulse-frequency modulation (PFM) at light loads, with soft-start limiting inrush current and thermal shutdown protection at 150°C. The 0.7-V feedback reference enables precise regulation of its fixed 2.25-V output using an external resistor divider only if reconfigured - though not required for the factory-set version.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS62238DRYT is housed in a 1-mm × 1.5-mm × 0.6-mm, 6-pin USON (DRY) package with wettable flanks, optimized for automated optical inspection and high-density PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS62238DRYT, TPS62231DRYT and TPS62232DRYT share identical thermal performance, quiescent current, and package dimensions but differ solely in factory-trimmed output voltage - enabling drop-in replacement across 1.2-V, 1.8-V, and 2.25-V system variants with zero layout change.

Availability

TPS62238DRYT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable audio, low-power wireless sensor networks, and digital camera core supply applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for TPS62238DRYT 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 headquartered in Dallas, Texas, designing and manufacturing analog, embedded processing, and connectivity products for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The TPS6223x product line was engineered specifically for ultra-compact, battery-powered portable electronics - prioritizing minimal solution size, high light-load efficiency, and robust transient performance in sub-20-mm² footprints.

FAQ

What is the fixed output voltage of the TPS62238DRYT?

The TPS62238DRYT is factory-configured for a fixed 2.25-V output voltage. This eliminates the need for external feedback resistors in standard applications. The internal 0.7-V reference and precision resistor divider ensure ±2.5% output accuracy across –40°C to 125°C junction temperature, making it suitable for stable analog and digital rail generation without trimming.

Does the TPS62238DRYT require external components to operate?

Yes - the TPS62238DRYT requires three minimum external components: a 2.2-μH inductor connected to the SW pin, a 2.2-μF input capacitor on VIN, and a 4.7-μF output capacitor on VOUT. No feedback resistors are needed due to its fixed 2.25-V configuration. Layout best practices - including short traces, solid ground plane, and thermal pad soldering - are essential for achieving rated 500-mA output and thermal performance.

How does the MODE pin affect TPS62238DRYT operation?

The MODE pin on the TPS62238DRYT selects between two operating modes: pulling MODE low enables automatic PFM/PWM transition for highest light-load efficiency (22 μA IQ), while pulling MODE high forces continuous PWM mode - eliminating frequency variation and output ripple spikes. This is critical for noise-sensitive applications like RF transceivers or audio codecs where spectral purity matters more than quiescent current.

What is the maximum junction temperature and thermal protection behavior of the TPS62238DRYT?

The TPS62238DRYT features thermal shutdown at 150°C (typical) with 20°C hysteresis. When junction temperature exceeds this threshold, both high-side and low-side MOSFETs disable, halting switching and reducing power dissipation. Operation resumes automatically once the die cools to ~130°C. Its USON-6 package has RθJA = 294.5°C/W, so proper PCB copper area and thermal vias under the exposed pad are mandatory to sustain 500-mA loads at elevated ambient temperatures.

Can the TPS62238DRYT start up into a pre-biased output capacitor?

Yes - the TPS62238DRYT supports start-up into a pre-biased output. Its internal soft-start circuitry detects the existing VOUT voltage and ramps the output monotonically to 2.25 V without causing reverse current flow or output overshoot. This capability is essential in systems with multiple power rails or hot-swap scenarios where downstream circuitry may retain charge on the output capacitor before the TPS62238DRYT is enabled.