Texas Instruments TPSM843620EVM

Overview

TPSM843620EVM from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module for the TPSM843620 synchronous buck DC/DC power module, configured with fixed 10 kΩ R_FBT and R_FBB to deliver a precise 1-V output at up to 6 A across 4–18 V input. It integrates high- and low-side MOSFETs, gate drivers, and power inductors in a compact 115 mm² layout, supporting adjustable switching frequency (500–2200 kHz), current limit, soft-start, and UVLO.

For engineers reviewing the TPSM843620EVM datasheet, TPSM843620EVM test setup, TPSM843620EVM efficiency curves, or TPSM843620EVM BOM modifications, this module enables rapid validation of SWIFT™ step-down performance-including loop stability (140 kHz bandwidth, 53° phase margin), output ripple (10 mV_PP @ 6 A), and thermal behavior (70.2°C case temp @ 6 A, 12 V_IN).

Technical Context

The TPSM843620EVM implements fixed-frequency advanced current-mode control with external synchronization capability via the SYNC/FSEL pin. Its MODE pin configures internal compensation ramp (1–4 pF), soft-start time (1 ms), and current limit (high/low) using jumper-selectable resistor networks.

Input-to-output regulation is verified across full operating range: line regulation ±0.0024 V (4–18 V_IN, 6 A load) and load regulation ±0.002 V (0–6 A, 12 V_IN). The board supports pre-bias start-up, EN-controlled sequencing, and PGOOD monitoring for system-level power management integration.

Key Specifications

Availability

TPSM843620EVM is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power supply validation, DC/DC converter qualification, and SWIFT™ architecture prototyping requiring stable component supply, fast turnaround, and full design documentation support.

Supply support for TPSM843620EVM 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 solutions.

The TPSM843620EVM belongs to TI's SWIFT™ evaluation platform family, designed specifically to accelerate development of compact, high-efficiency point-of-load regulators for FPGA, ASIC, and processor core rail applications.

FAQ

What is the default output voltage configuration of the TPSM843620EVM?

The TPSM843620EVM ships with fixed 10 kΩ R_FBT and 10 kΩ R_FBB resistors, setting a nominal output voltage of 1.000 V. This configuration is validated per Table 1-2 and used across all default test results including efficiency, ripple, and regulation measurements in the user's guide.

How is switching frequency selected on the TPSM843620EVM?

Switching frequency on the TPSM843620EVM is set via jumper J5, which selects discrete FSEL resistor values. The default configuration shorts pins 5 and 6 (11.8 kΩ), yielding 1000 kHz operation. Alternative settings support 500 kHz, 750 kHz, 1500 kHz, and 2200 kHz as specified in Table 2-2.

Does the TPSM843620EVM support pre-bias start-up?

Yes, the TPSM843620EVM supports start-up into a pre-biased output, demonstrated in Figure 3-21 where U1 starts successfully into a 0.5-V pre-bias condition. This capability is inherent to the TPSM843620 IC and verified on the EVM with default component selection.

What test points are used for accurate efficiency measurement on the TPSM843620EVM?

Efficiency measurements on the TPSM843620EVM use dedicated low-parasitic test points: TP3 (VIN_EFF) and TP4 (PGND_EFF) for input, and TP9 (VOUT_EFF) and TP10 (PGND_EFF) for output - as defined in Table 3-4 to minimize PCB trace loss contribution.

Can the TPSM843620EVM be used to evaluate other modules in the same family?

Yes, the TPSM843620EVM is designed for multi-device evaluation and supports TPSM843820 (8 A) and TPSM843320 (3 A) with documented BOM modifications in Table 3-3, including CFF capacitor changes and jumper reconfiguration for MODE and FSEL settings.