Texas Instruments TPS65138DRCR

Overview

TPS65138DRCR from Texas Instruments is a dual-output AMOLED display power supply IC integrating a boost converter (4.62 V / 300 mA positive output) and an inverting buck-boost converter (–4.9 V default / 300 mA negative output), with digital VNEG programming via CTRL pin, 2.9 V to 4.5 V input range, and 0.8% VPOS regulation accuracy - deployed in mobile phone AMOLED panels requiring stable dual-rail biasing.

For engineers reviewing the TPS65138DRCR datasheet, TPS65138DRCR pinout, TPS65138DRCR application, or TPS65138DRCR equivalent, key selection considerations include programmable VNEG range (–2.2 V to –6.2 V), QFN-10 3×3 mm thermal pad package, short-circuit and thermal shutdown protection, CT-pin-adjustable VNEG transition time, and compatibility with 4.7 µH inductors and 100 nF/10 µF ceramic output capacitors.

Technical Context

The TPS65138DRCR implements two independent switching regulators: a fixed-frequency (1.6 MHz) boost converter for VPOS generation and a digitally programmable inverting buck-boost converter for VNEG, both sharing no internal power path but coordinated via shared CTRL interface and GND/PGND separation. Its 6-bit DAC-based digital interface enables precise VNEG voltage selection in discrete steps without external DAC or I²C controller.

Soft-start sequencing initiates VPOS first (8 ms delay), then VNEG at its default –4.9 V; short-circuit detection monitors VPOS falling below 3.7 V or VNEG rising above –1 V for >3 ms during operation, latching shutdown until VIN cycling or CTRL toggle. The CT pin sets VNEG transition slew rate via external RC network (e.g., 100 nF yields ~32.5 ms 70% settling).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS65138DRCR uses a 10-pin VSON (DRC) package with 3 mm × 3 mm footprint, 0.5 mm pitch, and exposed thermal pad soldered to PCB ground plane for thermal and electrical integrity.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-output AMOLED power supply applications.

Compared with TPS65138ADRCR and MAX17106ETL+, the TPS65138DRCR delivers the widest programmable VNEG range in the smallest footprint with lowest quiescent current - making it optimal for mainstream mobile OLED designs where –6.2 V capability and 3×3 mm size are decisive.

Availability

TPS65138DRCR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for mobile phone displays, wearable OLED interfaces, industrial HMIs, and portable medical diagnostic devices requiring stable dual-rail component supply with guaranteed long-term sourcing.

Supply support for TPS65138DRCR 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 decades of expertise in high-efficiency DC/DC conversion and display power solutions.

The TPS65138 product line was designed specifically for battery-powered AMOLED displays, addressing critical needs in line/load regulation, programmable bias flexibility, and ultra-compact integration for next-generation mobile visual interfaces.

FAQ

What is the default VNEG output voltage of the TPS65138DRCR?

The TPS65138DRCR powers up with a default VNEG output of –4.9 V when the CTRL pin is pulled high without any subsequent rising-edge pulses. This value is factory-trimmed and remains stable across –40°C to +85°C ambient temperature, serving as the baseline for all digital programming sequences. The TPS65138DRCR maintains this default unless explicitly reprogrammed via CTRL pin edge counting.

How does the CTRL pin function in the TPS65138DRCR?

The CTRL pin in the TPS65138DRCR serves dual roles: enabling the device and programming VNEG voltage. A logic-high signal enables both converters; subsequent rising edges on CTRL increment a 6-bit DAC to select one of 42 discrete VNEG levels (–2.2 V to –6.2 V). No external clock or data lines are needed - all programming is self-contained within the TPS65138DRCR's internal logic.

What package type and thermal characteristics does the TPS65138DRCR use?

The TPS65138DRCR uses a 10-pin VSON (DRC) package measuring 3 mm × 3 mm with 0.5 mm pitch and an exposed thermal pad. Its thermal metrics include θJA = 54.7 °C/W and θJB = 16.9 °C/W, enabling reliable operation at full 300 mA load in compact layouts when the thermal pad is soldered to a solid GND plane. The package is RoHS-compliant and rated MSL-2-260°C.

Does the TPS65138DRCR support short-circuit protection on both outputs?

Yes, the TPS65138DRCR provides independent short-circuit protection for both VPOS and VNEG outputs. During normal operation, it detects VPOS falling below 3.7 V or VNEG rising above –1 V for longer than 3 ms, triggering a latched shutdown. Recovery requires either cycling VIN below UVLO (2.4 V) or toggling CTRL low then high - ensuring robust fault containment without external supervision circuitry.

Can the TPS65138DRCR operate from a single-cell Li-ion battery?

Yes, the TPS65138DRCR operates across 2.9 V to 4.5 V input, fully covering the discharge profile of a standard single-cell Li-ion battery (3.0 V to 4.2 V nominal). Its UVLO threshold (2.4 V rising) provides margin for deep discharge scenarios, and its 1.6 MHz switching frequency maintains regulation stability even at minimum input voltage with proper 4.7 µH inductor selection.