The PCB layout of any bulk converter
is critical to the optimal performance of the design. Bad PCB layout can disrupt the
operation of an otherwise good schematic design. Even if the converter regulates
correctly, bad PCB layout can mean the difference between a robust design and one
that cannot be mass produced. Furthermore, the EMI performance of the converter is
dependent on the PCB layout to a great extent. The following guidelines will help
users design a PCB with the best power conversion performance, thermal performance,
and minimized generation of unwanted EMI.
- The input bypass capacitor, CIN, must be placed as close
as possible to the IN and PGND pins. The high frequency ceramic bypass
capacitors at the input side provide a primary path for the high di/dt
components of the pulsing current. Use a wide VIN plane on a lower layer to
connect both of the VIN pairs together to the input supply. Grounding for both
the input and output capacitors must consist of localized top-side planes that
connect to the PGND pin and PAD.
- Use ground plane in one of the middle layers as noise shielding and
heat dissipation path.
- Use wide traces for the CBOOT capacitor. Place the
CBOOT capacitor as close to the device with short, wide traces to
the BOOT and SW pins.
- The SW pin connecting to the inductor must be as short as
possible, and just wide enough to carry the load current without excessive
heating. Short, thick traces or copper pours (shapes) must be used for a high
current conduction path to minimize parasitic resistance. The output capacitors
must be placed close to the VSENSE end of the inductor and closely
grounded to PGND pin and exposed PAD.
- RILIM and RFREQ resistors must be placed
as close as possible to the ILIM and FREQ pins and connected to AGND. If needed,
these components can be placed on the bottom side of the PCB with signals routed
through small vias, and the traces need far away from noisy nets like SW,
BOOT.
- Make VIN, VSENSE, and ground bus connections as
wide as possible. This action reduces any voltage drops on the input or output
paths of the converter and maximizes efficiency.
- Provide enough PCB area for proper heat sinking. Enough copper
area must be used to ensure a low RθJA, commensurate with the maximum
load current and ambient temperature. Make the top and bottom PCB layers with
two-ounce copper; and no less than one ounce. If the PCB design uses multiple
copper layers (recommended), thermal vias can also be connected to the inner
layer heat-spreading ground planes. Note that the package of this device
dissipates heat through all pins. Wide traces must be used for all pins except
where noise considerations dictate minimization of area.
- Use an array of heat-sinking vias to connect the exposed pad to the
ground plane on the bottom PCB layer. If the PCB has multiple copper layers,
these thermal vias can also be connected to inner layer heat-spreading ground
planes. Ensure enough copper area is used for heat-sinking to keep the junction
temperature below 150°C.
- Keep the CC lines close to the same length. Do not create stubs
or test points on the CC lines.