Texas Instruments TPS6734IDR

Overview

TPS6734IDR from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output 12-V, 120-mA boost converter IC with integrated 0.7-Ω n-channel MOSFET power switch, 170-kHz current-mode PWM control, and enable/shutdown functionality. It operates from 2.7 V to 12 V input, delivers ≥120 mA at ≥3.75 V input, and draws only 3 µA in shutdown-optimized for flash memory programming supplies in battery-powered systems.

For engineers reviewing the TPS6734IDR datasheet, TPS6734IDR pinout, TPS6734IDR application, or TPS6734IDR equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed efficiency (86% @ 5 V/120 mA), real-world soft-start timing data, and two rigorously cross-checked alternative parts for flash-programming and PCMCIA supply designs.

Technical Context

The TPS6734IDR implements a current-mode PWM architecture with a 170-kHz oscillator, slope-compensated current sensing (gain = 6), and an internal 1.22-V reference brought out on REF pin. Its gate drive is bootstrapped from the 12-V output post-startup to improve low-input-voltage efficiency.

It features cycle-by-cycle overcurrent protection (1.5-A peak limit), soft-start clamping via external SS capacitor, and error-amplifier-based voltage regulation using FB feedback. Shutdown is controlled by EN (2-V high threshold, 0.4-V low threshold), reducing supply current to 3 µA while discharging SS through 1-MΩ.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS6734IDR is packaged in an 8-pin SOIC (D package), RoHS-compliant, tape-and-reel format (2500 pcs/reel), with JEDEC MS-012 compliance and Level-1 MSL rating (260°C peak reflow).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX734CPA+, TPS6734IDR delivers lower shutdown current and a usable reference output; versus TPS61040DRVR, it trades adjustability and higher current for smaller solution size, fixed 12-V accuracy, and direct MAX734 interoperability in flash-programming hardware.

Availability

TPS6734IDR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for flash memory programming supplies, PCMCIA card power systems, and battery-powered instrumentation requiring stable component supply with long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for TPS6734IDR 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-reliability power conversion ICs.

The TPS6734 product line was designed specifically for low-power, high-voltage boost applications in portable memory systems-emphasizing minimal external components, ultra-low shutdown current, and seamless integration with flash erase timing requirements.

FAQ

What is the maximum output current capability of the TPS6734IDR under real-world conditions?

The TPS6734IDR delivers a guaranteed minimum of 120 mA at input voltages ≥3.75 V and ambient temperatures up to 85°C. At 3.0 V input, it sustains 150 mA (per Figure 11); at 5 V input and 25°C, typical performance reaches 150 mA before thermal derating. The 0.7-Ω internal MOSFET and current-limit threshold of 1.5 A define its safe operating area, and actual output depends on PCB layout, inductor saturation, and thermal management. TPS6734IDR maintains regulation across this range without external current-sense components.

Can the TPS6734IDR be used with input voltages below 2.7 V?

No-the absolute minimum recommended input voltage for the TPS6734IDR is 2.7 V per datasheet Section "Recommended Operating Conditions." Operation below this risks failure to start or unstable regulation. While a bootstrap configuration (Figure 11) extends functional operation down to ~2 V, it sacrifices efficiency, increases supply current, and is explicitly discouraged except for emergency low-voltage cases. For sub-2.7 V inputs, a different converter such as the TPS61040 should be evaluated. TPS6734IDR is not rated or characterized for reliable operation below 2.7 V.

How does the soft-start function work on the TPS6734IDR, and what capacitor value should I use?

The TPS6734IDR uses an external capacitor on SS (Pin 3) to control output voltage ramp rate during power-up. A 0.1 µF capacitor yields ~37 ms soft-start time at 5 V input (Table 1), limiting inrush current and preventing output overshoot. Omitting the SS capacitor disables soft-start, enabling fastest possible startup-ideal for flash erase pulses where timing is critical. Capacitor values from 0.047 µF to 1 µF provide scalable ramp times (15–400 ms). TPS6734IDR's SS clamp circuit ensures controlled error-amplifier output rise, independent of load.

Is the REF pin on the TPS6734IDR intended for external use, and what are its limitations?

Yes-the REF pin (Pin 2) provides a buffered 1.22-V reference with ±0.5% initial accuracy and 6.7 ppm/°C drift, specified to source up to 100 µA. It is explicitly intended for external biasing (e.g., op-amp references, ADC references, or comparator thresholds). A 0.01–0.1 µF ceramic capacitor to GND is mandatory to suppress noise. Loading beyond 100 µA degrades regulation and may cause output instability. TPS6734IDR's REF output remains active in shutdown only if VCC is present; it is not powered from the 12-V output rail.

What thermal considerations apply to the TPS6734IDR in SOIC (D) package?

In the SOIC-8 (D) package, the TPS6734IDR has a power dissipation rating of 725 mW at TA ≤ 25°C, derating linearly at 5.8 mW/°C above that. At 70°C ambient, max continuous power drops to 464 mW; at 85°C, it falls to 377 mW. To maintain reliability, PCB layout must include a thermal pad connected to a solid ground plane, short high-current traces (especially OUT–diode–capacitor loop), and adequate copper area. Efficiency peaks at ~86% (5 V/120 mA), so power loss is ~200 mW-well within thermal limits at moderate ambient temperatures. TPS6734IDR junction temperature must stay below 150°C.