TI releases high efficiency 6-A step-down SWIFT DC/DC converter

Texas Instruments Inc. has expanded its SWIFT family of power management ICs with a new 6-A converter that it claims is the industry’s smallest and most efficient.

The new TPS54618 monolithic synchronous switcher with two integrated 12-milliohm FETs provides 95-percent efficiency and low operating current to 2.95-V to 6-V point-of-load designs used in DSP- and FPGA-based communications, test and medical equipment. According to TI, the TPS54618 is 30-percent smaller than other 6-A devices, and achieves a total solution size of 140 mm².

Key highlights:

• TI’s SWIFT converter with integrated 12-milliohm FETs supports a 6-A continuous current, and a power stage input voltage range from 2.95 V to 6 V.
• Wide switching frequency range (200 kHz to 2 MHz) combines high efficiency with design flexibility, and comes in a space-saving, thermally enhanced 3-mm x 3-mm x 1-mm monolithic QFN package.
• Synchronized switching frequency from a master clock eliminates beat noise in sensitive data acquisition circuitry.

Availability and pricing:

The TPS54618 is available in volume now from TI and its authorized distributors in a 3-mm x 3-mm QFN package. Suggested resale pricing is $2.85 in 1,000-unit quantities. The TPS54318 3-A SWIFT converter also comes in a 3-mm x 3-mm QFN with a suggested resale price of $2.00 in 1,000-unit quantities.