TPS62736: NC Connections on TPS62736 / what happens if not grounded?

Mark Wagner48

Part Number: TPS62736
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: TPS62808, TPS62740

We have a design that does not connect "NC" pins of the TPS62736 regulator as indicated in the pin listing of the datasheet. I inherited this design in production and we are now seeing some issues and wanted to know what may happen if those pins are not grounded. My guess is if you label a pin "NC", it usually means no connection, and no sample schematics in the document show those pins (which is likely why the error happened).

One symptom of the design we wanted to know if it could be attributed to this "flaw" is excessive current draw.

over 5 years ago

0 Jeff F over 5 years ago

TI__Guru*** 146905 points

Hi Mark,

Unfortunately those pins are connected to circuitry that is intended to be disabled and should be grounded as recommended in the d/s pin functions table and in the EVM user's guide. If those pins are not grounded and float high, other circuitry could turn on and consume additional current. I would not expect IC damage, only additional leakage current.

Regards,
Jeff