9.4 Device Functional Modes

The TPA3144D2 has the option of running in either BD modulation or 1SPW modulation; this is set by the 1SPW pin.

1SPW = GND: BD-modulation

This is a modulation scheme that allows operation without the classic LC reconstruction filter when the amp is driving an inductive load with short speaker wires. Each output is switching from 0 volts to the supply voltage. The OUTPx and OUTNx are in phase with each other with no input so that there is little or no current in the speaker. The duty cycle of OUTPx is greater than 50% and OUTNx is less than 50% for positive output voltages. The duty cycle of OUTPx is less than 50% and OUTNx is greater than 50% for negative output voltages. The voltage across the load sits at 0V throughout most of the switching period, reducing the switching current, which reduces any I²R losses in the load.

Figure 23. BD Mode Modulation

1SPW = HIGH: 1SPW-modulation

The 1SPW mode alters the normal modulation scheme in order to achieve higher efficiency with a slight penalty in THD degradation and more attention required in the output filter selection. In 1SPW mode the outputs operate at ~15% modulation during idle conditions. When an audio signal is applied one output will decrease and one will increase. The decreasing output signal will quickly rail to GND at which point all the audio modulation takes place through the rising output. The result is that only one output is switching during a majority of the audio cycle. Efficiency is improved in this mode due to the reduction of switching losses. The THD penalty in 1SPW mode is minimized by the high performance feedback loop. The resulting audio signal at each half output has a discontinuity each time the output rails to GND. This can cause ringing in the audio reconstruction filter unless care is taken in the selection of the filter components and type of filter used.

Figure 24. 1SPW Mode Modulation