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TPA6141A2 Min Load Impedance

Other Parts Discussed in Thread: TPA6166A2, TPA6120A2

Hi,

The TPA6241A2 datasheet lists the minimum load impedance to be at 12 Ohms in the Absolute Max section, but is it possible to use it with a lower impedance speaker (i.e. nominal impedance ~9 Ohms and even ~5 Ohms @ ~5 kHz).

Thanks,
Matt 

  • Hi Matt,

    This is similar to a previous question here on e2e:
    e2e.ti.com/.../2047754

    It is not recommended to use lower impedance loads than the specified in the datasheet. Doing so would lead the device to an increase in the output current.
    You could try to limit the output power, however as this is out of datasheet spec, we cannot guarantee device performance.
    The absolute maximum ratings are limits for a good device performance, using the device out of these specs can cause malfunction or damage to the device.

    What are the application requirements? Would it be OK if you look for a class AB speaker amplifier that is able to drive lower loads?
    Headphone speakers usually go from 16-Ohm to 32-Ohm

    Best regards,
    -Ivan Salazar
    Texas Instruments
  • Battery life is important, so this was the cause for the interest in a Class-G. I just stumbled across the TPA6166A2 which is a class G and seems to be spec'ed to drive down to 7.8 Ohms. Is this an option and are there possibly any other amplifiers that I should consider?
  • Hi Matt,

    TPA6120A2 is rated to a minimum load of 8-Ohm, although this one is not class G.
    I think TPA6166A2 is the option to go for this application.

    Best regards,
    -Ivan Salazar
    Texas Instruments