Hi Folks
We've been trialling the TPS63900 on a test PCB as part of a wider test of an op amp circuit design.
We have two draft designs that would like to make use of the TPS63900, which was recommended by TI in response to a forum question, to support an ultra low power wireless design that has bursts of current when the radio is transmitting. The low quiescent current, current output capability, and dual selectable voltage of this new device would be ideal for the application.
During testing we had two over voltage incidents, both of which resulted in failure of the TPS63900. One was due to a crappy power supply that took a moment to stabilise the voltage, so there was an over voltage for a short period. When that happened the TPS63900 immediately shorted with magic smoke.
The second incident was when a normally decent lab power supply went haywire for a moment due to a high voltage electric fence test setup sparking to ground, causing it to briefly loose voltage control. Clearly need to be more careful!
No magic smoke this time (the current control cut back in) but again the TPS63900 was immediately destroyed creating a permanent short.
My concern is twofold. Generally the robustness of the TPS63900 to brief over voltage situations and secondly the apparent mode of failure being a dead short.
Are these issues recognised /, being addressed in a production version?
No chance to do formal testing of the device yet, so the 'evidence' is anecdotal, as above and not a very fair test, nevertheless doesn't inspire confidence in using the device in new designs. Other parts on the test board survived.
Would appreciate your advice.
PS - We are still waiting on a TI response to an earlier question on availability of additional samples and production.
Cheers, Ron