TPS7A8801EVM-776: FOOTPRINT CLARIFICATION

Francis KImpel

I am currently using the TPS7A8801QRTJRQ1 1 amp LDO and was not sure what to do with the A1-A4 pads shown in the recommended land pattern

The recommended layout in the data sheet doesn't reference these pads and I don't see where the evaluation board design references them either in the schematic symbol or footprint.

What the function of A1-A4?

Are they to be connected to power ground or left open?

thank you

over 6 years ago

0 kai klaas69 over 6 years ago

Guru 140200 points

Hi Francis,

I guess these pads are dummy solder pads to prevent short circuits between signal traces and the internal lead frame of chip during the soldering process. The lead frame is sometimes looking through the package at the corners. So, you should not connect these pads to anything on your PCB.

Kai

0 kai klaas69 over 6 years ago in reply to kai klaas69

Guru 140200 points

mcuoneclipse.com/.../

0 Francis KImpel over 6 years ago in reply to kai klaas69

Prodigy 50 points

Thank you kai. Your explanation is reasonable but I need to be certain that the solder pads don't need to be connected to the board. I have contacted a TI FAE and he is verifying the function of these pads.

0 Ryan Eslinger over 6 years ago in reply to Francis KImpel

TI__Guru 55940 points

Hi Francis,

The pads in question should be tied to GND for reliable board assembly as they are for mechanical purposes only. There is no electrical requirement for these pads. The reason you do not see these on the EVM is because the EVM is populated with the non-automotive version of the device. Only the automotive version uses the wettable flank version of the package and has the extra mechanical pads.

Very Respectfully,
Ryan

0 Francis KImpel over 6 years ago in reply to Ryan Eslinger

Prodigy 50 points

Thank you Ryan. I will connect to ground.

Power management

Power management forum

TPS7A8801EVM-776: FOOTPRINT CLARIFICATION