Texas Instruments TPS84A20RVQR

Overview

TPS84A20RVQR from Texas Instruments is a 10-A synchronous buck DC/DC power module integrating MOSFETs, inductor, and passives in a 10-mm × 10-mm × 4.3-mm QFN package. It delivers 0.6 V to 5.5 V output with ±1% set-point accuracy, supports 200 kHz–1.2 MHz adjustable switching frequency, and achieves up to 95% efficiency at 12 V input - ideal for FPGA and DSP point-of-load regulation.

For engineers reviewing the TPS84A20RVQR datasheet, TPS84A20RVQR pinout, TPS84A20RVQR application, or TPS84A20RVQR equivalent, key selection considerations include its integrated thermal performance (13.3°C/W θJA), parallel operation capability via ISHARE, Eco-mode™ light-load efficiency, and programmable UVLO/inhibit functionality.

Technical Context

The TPS84A20RVQR implements a current-mode synchronous buck controller with internal gate drivers, integrated power stage, and analog control loop. Its architecture supports remote sensing (SENSE+), 180° out-of-phase clock synchronization (SYNC_OUT), and configurable overcurrent protection (OCP_SEL pin).

It features dual-input rails (PVIN for power switches, VIN for bias circuitry), enabling operation down to 2.95 V PVIN when VOUT ≥ 0.6 V. The device includes thermal shutdown (175°C) with 10°C hysteresis, prebias start-up, and output voltage tracking/sequencing via SS/TR and STSEL pins.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS84A20RVQR uses a 42-pin QFN package (RVQ) with exposed thermal pad, measuring 10 mm × 10 mm × 4.3 mm. The package supports standard reflow profiles (peak 245°C, up to 3 cycles) and meets UL 94 V-0 flammability rating.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS84A20RVQR, TPS84A21RVQR trades output voltage flexibility for enhanced low-VOUT efficiency, while LMZ31506RVQR provides higher current capacity at the cost of larger footprint and reduced integration density - making TPS84A20RVQR optimal for balanced 10-A, multi-voltage, space-constrained designs.

Availability

TPS84A20RVQR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for FPGA power delivery, medical imaging sensor biasing, and PCIe add-in card applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and consistent parametric performance across production batches.

Supply support for TPS84A20RVQR 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 and embedded processing technologies, with decades of expertise in power management ICs and modules.

The TPS84A20RVQR belongs to TI's SWIFT™ integrated power module family, designed specifically for high-efficiency, low-profile point-of-load conversion in space- and thermal-constrained systems such as communications infrastructure and test equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum output current capability of the TPS84A20RVQR under natural convection?

The TPS84A20RVQR delivers 10 A continuously at 85°C ambient temperature with natural convection on a standard 100-mm × 100-mm double-sided PCB with 2-oz copper. Derating begins above 85°C per the thermal curves in the datasheet; at 100°C ambient, maximum output drops to approximately 7.5 A. This rating assumes proper layout with AGND/PGND separation and thermal pad soldering.

Can the TPS84A20RVQR operate with separate PVIN and VIN supplies?

Yes, the TPS84A20RVQR supports split-rail operation: PVIN can be as low as 2.95 V (or VOUT + 0.7 V, whichever is greater), while VIN must remain ≥4.5 V. This allows efficient use of a low-voltage switching rail (e.g., 3.3 V) for power stage and a higher bias rail (e.g., 5 V or 12 V) for control circuitry - reducing overall system power loss.

How is output voltage adjusted on the TPS84A20RVQR?

Output voltage is set by connecting an external resistor (RSET) between VADJ (pin 26) and AGND (pin 23). The relationship is VOUT = 0.6 V × (1 + RSET / 1.43 kΩ). For example, a 0.715 kΩ resistor sets VOUT = 1.8 V. SENSE+ (pin 27) must be connected to VOUT either at the load or device pins to enable remote sensing.

Does the TPS84A20RVQR support synchronization to an external clock source?

Yes, the RT/CLK pin (pin 22) accepts an external clock signal (200 kHz–1.2 MHz) to synchronize switching. When synchronized, the device also drives SYNC_OUT (pin 7) with a 180° out-of-phase clock signal - enabling interleaved operation with other TPS84A20RVQR modules to reduce input/output ripple and improve thermal distribution.

What protection features are built into the TPS84A20RVQR?

The TPS84A20RVQR includes overcurrent protection (configurable as hiccup or cycle-by-cycle via OCP_SEL), overtemperature shutdown (175°C with 10°C hysteresis), undervoltage lockout (programmable via INH/UVLO), power-good monitoring (PWRGD), and prebias start-up. These features ensure safe operation during fault conditions and maintain system reliability in industrial environments.