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TPS92512HV: Why is the output capacitor not connected to GND?

Part Number: TPS92512HV

Why is the output capacitor connected in parallel with the LEDs, instead of between Vout and GND?  My intuition tells me that the output capacitor then filters all switching noise away form the LEDs, but back through Rsense.  That is counter-intuitive to all buck regulator theory I have ever studied.  As such, I have a lot of noise across Rsense, and I do not measure a clean 300mV during the PDIM on time.  My COMP pin measures 1V with 120mVpp noise on top during the PDIM on-time, while the datasheet says I should be measuring 700mV.

Please advise.

  • Hello Brian,

    This is a current regulator, not a voltage regulator. When it first starts current will flow to the capacitor, if it's tied to ground, the feedback doesn't know current is flowing, this can cause instability and overshoot. If it is across the LEDs the capacitor charging current will be sensed via the feedback. The ripple going into feedback is averaged out via the compensation capacitor.

    Best Regards,