TPS62913: Compact, Efficient Buck Converter

The TPS62913 from Texas Instruments delivers high-performance power management for today’s demanding electronic applications. This guide covers capabilities, applications, and implementation of this versatile buck converter.

What is the TPS62913 and Why Does It Matter?

The TPS62913 is a compact, high-efficiency buck converter for space-constrained designs. As devices get smaller yet demand more power, engineers need solutions that deliver reliable voltage without compromising efficiency or thermal performance.

Key capabilities include:

• High-frequency switching (up to 2.2 MHz)
• Ultra-small solution size
• Excellent load transient response
• Low output voltage ripple

Ideal for applications from industrial automation to portable electronics where space and efficiency are crucial.

Key Technical Specifications and Features

Key specifications include:

Input and Output Parameters

• Input: 2.5V to 6V
• Output: 0.6V to 5.5V
• Current: Up to 2A continuous
• Efficiency: Up to 95% at moderate loads

Advanced Operational Features

• Power-save mode for light-load efficiency
• Selectable PFM/PWM operation
• Programmable soft-start
• Precision enable threshold for UVLO
• Thermal shutdown and current protection

Package and Footprint

• 2mm x 2mm WSON package
• QFN option for thermal performance
• Minimal external components

These features make the TPS62913 ideal for power-dense, efficient applications.

How Does the TPS62913 Compare to Competitors?

Key advantages include:

Size and Integration Advantages

The TPS62913 offers smaller solution size while maintaining output capabilities. High integration reduces external components, providing:

• 30% smaller footprint
• Simplified PCB layout
• Lower BOM cost

Efficiency Performance

Exceptional efficiency across load ranges stems from:

• Advanced synchronous rectification
• Intelligent PWM/PFM mode switching
• Optimized FET sizing

Battery life in portable applications extends by up to 15% compared to previous solutions.

Thermal Performance

The TPS62913 excels through:

• Low RDS(on) FETs minimizing losses
• Enhanced package thermal characteristics
• Intelligent current limiting

These features enable reliable operation in challenging thermal environments where competitors might require derating.

Key Applications

The TPS62913 suits various applications:

Battery-Powered Devices

• Smartphones and accessories
• Wearables
• Portable medical devices
• IoT sensors

High efficiency and small size maximize battery life while minimizing form factor.

Industrial Automation

• PLCs
• Industrial sensors
• Factory automation
• Building systems

Robust performance and protection features suit demanding industrial environments.

Computing and Communication

• POS terminals
• Network cards
• Optical modules
• Computing peripherals

Provides clean, stable power for reliable data processing.

Implementation Guidelines

Key design considerations include:

PCB Layout Best Practices

Critical recommendations:

• Place input capacitors close to device pins
• Minimize high-current loop areas
• Use wide traces for power paths
• Implement solid ground plane beneath device
• Keep feedback components near FB pin

These practices minimize noise, improve regulation, and enhance thermal performance.

Component Selection Guidelines

The TPS62913’s performance depends significantly on external component selection:

Inductor Selection

Choose an inductor with:

• Appropriate saturation current rating (typically 1.3x the maximum load current)
• Low DCR to maximize efficiency
• Suitable size and height for the application
• Recommended inductance values between 1μH and 4.7μH

Capacitor Selection

For optimal performance:

• Input capacitors: 10μF or greater, ceramic X5R or X7R
• Output capacitors: 22μF or greater, low-ESR ceramic
• Place additional bulk capacitance for applications with high load transients

Thermal Management Considerations

Even with high efficiency, thermal management remains important:

• Provide adequate copper on power planes for heat dissipation
• Consider thermal vias to conduct heat to inner or bottom layers
• Monitor junction temperature in high-ambient temperature applications
• Derate maximum output current in thermally constrained designs

Common Design Challenges and Solutions

Engineers may face these challenges with the TPS62913:

Managing EMI in Sensitive Applications

To reduce EMI:

• Use spread spectrum clocking when available
• Add proper input/output filtering
• Isolate switching nodes from sensitive circuits
• Consider RC snubbers in extreme cases

Optimizing Light-Load Efficiency

For idle periods:

• Enable power-save mode
• Balance performance with efficiency
• Optimize switching frequency

Addressing Output Voltage Accuracy

For precise regulation:

• Use 1%+ tolerance feedback resistors
• Place feedback components near device
• Account for temperature effects
• Use remote sensing for critical loads

Real-World Implementation Examples

Real-world applications showcase the TPS62913’s capabilities:

Case Study: Portable Medical Device

A portable monitor used TPS62913 to:

• Generate clean 1.8V for analog circuits
• Achieve >90% efficiency
• Maintain regulation during mode transitions
• Extend battery life by 20%

Result: Smaller device with longer operation between charges.

Case Study: Industrial IoT Gateway

An industrial gateway chose TPS62913 for:

• Performance across industrial temperature range
• Protection during fault conditions
• Low EMI for industrial compliance
• Excellent response to communication bursts

Result: Reliable power in harsh environments.

Frequently Asked Questions About the TPS62913

What advantages does the TPS62913 offer over linear regulators?

The TPS62913 provides higher efficiency than linear regulators, especially with large input-to-output voltage differences. Benefits include reduced heat, longer battery life, and better system performance. Its switching architecture minimizes power loss compared to linear regulators’ heat dissipation.

Can the TPS62913 be used in automotive applications?

While robust, verify if it meets automotive requirements. For dedicated automotive use, TI offers AEC-Q100 qualified variants for extended temperature ranges.

How does the TPS62913 handle load transients?

The fast-response control loop adjusts quickly to load changes. High switching frequency and optimized compensation respond within microseconds, maintaining regulation during transitions. Ideal for pulsed loads and sleep/active mode switching.

What protection features does the TPS62913 include?

The TPS62913 incorporates several protection mechanisms:

• Overcurrent protection with hiccup mode
• Thermal shutdown
• Input undervoltage lockout (UVLO)
• Output overvoltage protection
• Soft-start to limit inrush current

These features protect both the device and the system from potential damage.

Future Trends: Where Does the TPS62913 Fit in Evolving Power Management?

As electronics evolve, the TPS62913 aligns with key industry trends:

Increasing Power Density

The push for smaller, more functional devices demands higher power density. The TPS62913’s compact size and high efficiency enable more powerful systems in smaller form factors.

System Intelligence and Communication

Though primarily analog, the TPS62913 can integrate with PMICs that provide the digital interface needed for intelligent power systems.

Energy Harvesting and Alternative Power

The TPS62913’s good light-load efficiency suits systems that maximize harvested power from sources like solar, vibration, or thermal gradients.

Conclusion: Is the TPS62913 Right for Your Design?

The TPS62913 offers a balance of performance, size, and efficiency. It’s particularly suited for space-constrained, battery-powered applications where board space and power efficiency are critical.

Compare your requirements with the device’s capabilities before selection. Consider other TI solutions for applications needing higher input voltages, currents over 2A, or digital interfaces. Knowing the TPS62913’s strengths and limitations enables effective power design for modern electronic systems.