PMP11064: Schematic symbol that is a curved line with spokes (denoting heat sink) is difficult to interpret without help

Otto Hunt

Part Number: PMP11064

The schematic symbol that is a curved line with spokes is featured in more than one place on the circuit diagram for PMP11064 here. What do the spokes that attach to the curved line mean? I see that some spoke are grounded. How does that happen?

over 6 years ago

0 John Griffin1 over 6 years ago

TI__Mastermind 34465 points

Hello Otto,

That is the symbol used for a heatsink. The heatsink is grounded for EMI reasons.

Regards

John

0 John Griffin1 over 6 years ago in reply to John Griffin1

TI__Mastermind 34465 points

Forgot to add:
The "curved spokes" most likely represent the fins of the heatsink

0 Otto Hunt over 6 years ago in reply to John Griffin1

Expert 1475 points

So, the pins opposite the spokes (fins) are mounting holes, or protruding pins, that are grounded. All symbols show two "pins", both of which are grounded. Taking a look at the sample board, I can see where all heat sinks could have two pins.

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PMP11064: Schematic symbol that is a curved line with spokes (denoting heat sink) is difficult to interpret without help