TPS2H160-Q1: Can we use a high-side switch as a low-side switch?

Kento Adachi

Part Number: TPS2H160-Q1

Hello experts,

Sometimes, my customer wants to use a low-side switch with active clamp function, but our low-side switches do not have the active clamp function.

However, our high-side switches have the active clamp function. Then, is it possible to use a high-side switch as a low-side switch?

In addition, what is advantages to use a high-side switch instead of a low-side switch? Short circuit protection when the load is shorted?

Thanks,

Kento

over 1 year ago

0 Elizabeth Higgins over 1 year ago

TI__Genius 16035 points

Hi Adachi-san,

We use high side switches to drive inductive loads as they are capable of safely dissipating the inductive energy during kickback.

High side switches typically have more protection and diagnostics such as short circuit protection, current limiting, and current sensing.

These devices are meant to be placed on the high side of the load, not the low side of the switch. This video goes in further depth of the differences between low side and high side FET switching: https://www.ti.com/video/series/high-side-switch-deep-dive.html

Please refer to the high-side switch introduction section.

Do also note high side switches are meant for DC applications, PWM applications might not be possible with a High side switch, in which case a low side switch would be needed; more information on this can be found in this FAQ: https://e2e.ti.com/support/power-management-group/power-management/f/power-management-forum/1352879/faq-tps1h000-q1-pwming-with-ti-high-side-switches

Best Regards,

Elizabeth

0 Kento Adachi over 1 year ago in reply to Elizabeth Higgins

TI__Expert 4185 points

Hello Elizabeth,

Thank you for the quick support!

I almost understood the overview of high-side switches.

But what happens if we use a high-side switch in low-side? Does it work properly? or it does not work at all?

Thanks,

Kento

+1 Elizabeth Higgins over 1 year ago in reply to Kento Adachi

TI__Genius 16035 points

Hi Kento,

The high-side switch will not work placed between the load and ground as a low-side switch.

The supply voltage requires a positive potential.

Best Regards,

Elizabeth

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TPS2H160-Q1: Can we use a high-side switch as a low-side switch?