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TPS79301 - Outputs Paralleled?

Hello,

Can the TPS79301 outputs be paralled to provide a higher output current? I could not determine/find answer within the datasheet.

thx, Leo

  • Leo,

    LDOs with NMOS pass FETs generally can be paralleled. We recommend that each LDO have a different input source and the output current should not exceed 150% of the rated current for each LDO. Ideally, LDOs should only be paralled for redundancy and not to increase the load current. Unfortunately, this device has a PMOS pass element so it cannot be paralleled (as far as I know). I'll double check this with the device engineers.

  • Jeff, thanks for the prompt reply...I'll await your clarification with the TPS79301 product device engineers. Regards, Leo

  • Every LDO would have its own internal reference.
    The one with the higher reference will dominate all the load current.
    VFB is 1.225V typical, if one has 1.225V and the other 1.224V, the 1.225V will dominate the load current.
    The 1.224V will only start providing current when the 1.225V hits current limit.
    They will NOT share current naturally.

    You can insert a BALLAST resistor per this app note, to force sharing.
    Ballast Resistors Allow Load Sharing Between Two Paralleled DC/DC Converters
    http://www.ti.com/lit/an/slva250/slva250.pdf
    This is DROOP sharing, as the name implies the voltage at the load will drop (droop) as the load current increases.
    This deviation must be figured in using the app note details.

     

    To increase load current it is really best to put a higher current LDO in vs trying to parallel 2 of them.
    TPS73601 comes in 5SOT-23 and is 400mA.
    There may be others in the same package as TPS79301 that are also higher current.