1 Introduction

The TPS56C230 is a synchronous buck converter designed to provide up to a 12-A output. The input voltage is rated for 4.5 V to 18 V. The TPS56C230 uses a proprietary D-CAP3™ control mode. It provides a fast transient response with no external compensation, and supports low ESR output capacitors. A MODE pin is used to set Forced Continuous Conduction Mode (FCCM) or Advanced Eco-mode operation. Rated input voltage and output current range for the evaluation module are given in Table 1-1. The high-side and low-side switching MOSFETs are integrated inside the TPS56C230 package along with the gate-driver circuitry. The low drain-to-source on resistance of the MOSFET allows the TPS56C230 to achieve high efficiencies and helps keep the junction temperature low at high output currents. An external divider allows for an adjustable output voltage. Additionally, the TPS56C230 provides adjustable soft start and undervoltage lockout inputs and an open drain power good output.

The TPS56C230EVM evaluation module (EVM) is a single, synchronous buck converter providing 1.2 V at 12 A from 4.5 V to 18 V input. This user’s guide describes the TPS56C230EVM performance.