Texas Instruments TPS92612QDBVRQ1

Overview

TPS92612QDBVRQ1 from Texas Instruments is an AEC-Q100 Grade 1 automotive single-channel high-side linear LED driver delivering precision constant current up to 150 mA with ±4.6% regulation tolerance, 4.5 V–40 V input range, and integrated short-to-GND protection with auto-recovery - used in dome lights, CHMSL, and side-marker lamps.

For engineers reviewing the TPS92612QDBVRQ1 datasheet, TPS92612QDBVRQ1 pinout, TPS92612QDBVRQ1 application, or TPS92612QDBVRQ1 equivalent, key selection considerations include dropout voltage at 150 mA (≤700 mV), PWM dimming timing (t_{PWM_delay_falling} = 21 µs), thermal shutdown threshold (172°C), and SOT-23 (DBV) package compatibility with automotive PCB layout constraints.

Technical Context

The TPS92612QDBVRQ1 implements a high-side current-source architecture using an external sense resistor (R_SNS) to regulate output current via a precision 98 mV internal reference (V_{CS_REG}). It operates in linear mode only, with no switching elements, and relies on thermal management via PCB copper area and optional parallel resistors for heat sharing.

Its functional safety capability includes diagnostic features: short-to-GND detection with deglitch time (80–175 µs), retry current sourcing (0.64–1.53 mA), and overtemperature shutdown with 15°C hysteresis. Control logic uses a dedicated PWM input pin for enable-based dimming, independent of supply voltage modulation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-23 (DBV) package, 5-pin, body size 2.9 mm × 1.6 mm, moisture sensitivity level 1 (260°C peak reflow), RoHS-compliant NIPDAU finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar single-channel automotive LED driver applications.

Compared with TPS92612QDBVRQ1, TPS92611QDBVRQ1 reduces BOM count but increases system-level fault management complexity, while TPS92630QPWPRQ1 trades compactness for channel scalability and higher drive capability - neither offers drop-in replacement capability.

Availability

TPS92612QDBVRQ1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive interior lighting, rear lamp modules, and charging inlet indicators requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for TPS92612QDBVRQ1 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 specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in automotive-grade power management and signal chain solutions.

The TPS926xx-Q1 product line delivers robust, AEC-Q100 qualified linear LED drivers optimized for automotive convenience and safety lighting - designed to replace discrete transistor-based current sources with higher accuracy, lower thermal footprint, and integrated diagnostics.

FAQ

What is the maximum output current supported by the TPS92612QDBVRQ1?

The TPS92612QDBVRQ1 supports a maximum output current of 150 mA, adjustable via the external current-sense resistor R_SNS. This value is specified under recommended operating conditions (T_J ≤ 150°C) and assumes adequate PCB thermal design. At 150 mA, dropout voltage reaches up to 700 mV, defining the minimum required headroom between SUPPLY and OUT pins for regulation.

Does the TPS92612QDBVRQ1 support PWM dimming, and how is it implemented?

Yes, the TPS92612QDBVRQ1 supports PWM dimming via its dedicated PWM pin (Pin 2), which acts as a digital enable for the output current. When PWM is high (1.14–1.26 V), the device drives the configured LED current; when low, output is disabled. The device achieves 21 µs falling-edge delay and supports frequencies up to several kHz, enabling smooth brightness control without visible flicker in automotive lighting applications.

How does short-to-GND protection work in the TPS92612QDBVRQ1?

The TPS92612QDBVRQ1 continuously monitors V_OUT during active operation. If V_OUT falls below 0.82–0.91 V (rising threshold) for longer than 80–175 µs (deglitch time), it triggers short-to-GND protection. The device then disables the main output and sources a small retry current (0.64–1.53 mA) to detect fault clearance. Once V_OUT rises above 1.14–1.26 V, normal operation resumes automatically - no external reset required.

What package type and thermal characteristics apply to the TPS92612QDBVRQ1?

The TPS92612QDBVRQ1 is packaged in a 5-pin SOT-23 (DBV) case measuring 2.9 mm × 1.6 mm, rated for MSL Level-1 (unlimited floor life at ≤30°C/60% RH). Its thermal resistance is R_θJA = 200.7°C/W, R_θJB = 45.6°C/W. Effective thermal performance requires direct connection of the exposed pad (if present) or ample copper pour under Pin 1 (GND) and Pin 4 (IN) to dissipate heat, especially at >70 mA loads.

Can the TPS92612QDBVRQ1 be used with input voltages below 5 V?

Yes - the TPS92612QDBVRQ1 operates down to 4.5 V on both SUPPLY and IN pins, making it compatible with start-stop systems and low-battery conditions. However, at 4.5 V, dropout margin shrinks significantly: for 150 mA output, the device requires ≥5.2 V at SUPPLY to maintain regulation. Designers must verify V_SUPPLY – V_OUT ≥ dropout voltage (e.g., 700 mV) across the full LED forward voltage range.