TPS63060DSCR Failed to Start Troubleshooting Techniques

Troubleshooting Techniques for "TPS63060DSCR Failed to Start"

The TPS63060DSCR is a highly efficient, step-up/down DC-DC converter designed for battery- Power ed applications. If you're encountering a "Failed to Start" issue with this component, it could stem from various factors, ranging from incorrect external components to power supply issues. Below is a detailed step-by-step troubleshooting guide to identify and resolve the issue.

Step 1: Check Power Supply Issue: The device may not start if the input power supply is unstable or out of range. Solution: Verify Input Voltage: Ensure that the input voltage is within the recommended range (1.8V to 5.5V for the TPS63060). Measure Input Current: Use a multimeter to check if the current from the power supply is sufficient for the converter to start. Inspect Power Supply Stability: Ensure that there are no sudden voltage drops or fluctuations in the input power supply. If you're using a battery, check its charge level. Step 2: Verify External Components Issue: Incorrect or missing external components can prevent the TPS63060 from starting correctly. Solution: Inductor: Ensure that the recommended inductor is used (10 µH is typical). An incorrect inductor can prevent the device from starting. Capacitors : Check the values and placement of input and output capacitor s (typically 10 µF or more for input and 22 µF or more for output). Using the wrong type or incorrect values can lead to instability. Resistors (if used): If you’ve set specific configurations via external resistors (e.g., feedback resistors for output voltage), ensure they match the required values. Step 3: Check for Short Circuits Issue: A short circuit in the external circuitry can prevent the converter from starting. Solution: Inspect PCB Layout: Look for any solder bridges, especially around the power and ground pins. Short circuits can draw excessive current and prevent the device from initiating. Measure Resistance : With the power off, use a multimeter to check for any short circuit between the input, output, and ground pins. Step 4: Evaluate Enable Pin (EN) Issue: If the enable pin (EN) is not correctly driven, the device will fail to start. Solution: Check EN Pin Voltage: The EN pin must be high (at least 1.8V for proper operation). If the EN pin is not driven high or is floating, the converter will not start. Control the EN Pin: If you are using a microcontroller or external logic to control the EN pin, make sure that the logic level is set correctly to enable the device. Step 5: Monitor Switching Signals Issue: Faulty or missing switching signals from the internal controller can result in startup failure. Solution: Oscilloscope Check: Use an oscilloscope to monitor the switching waveform at the SW pin. If you don't see switching activity, the internal controller might be malfunctioning, or there may be an issue with the feedback loop. Step 6: Review the Feedback Loop Issue: A broken or incorrect feedback loop can prevent proper regulation, causing the converter to fail to start. Solution: Inspect Feedback Resistors: If you’ve set the output voltage using external resistors, ensure they are placed and soldered correctly. Measure Feedback Voltage: Use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the feedback pin. The voltage should correspond to the expected value based on the chosen resistors for the output voltage. Step 7: Check for Thermal Shutdown Issue: Overheating can trigger thermal shutdown, preventing the converter from starting. Solution: Measure Temperature: If possible, check the temperature of the device after attempting to start. If it’s too high, it could indicate poor thermal management. Improve Heat Dissipation: Ensure the device is properly ventilated, and use a larger heatsink or improve PCB layout for better heat dissipation. Step 8: Check for Component Damage Issue: Internal damage to the TPS63060 can lead to startup failure. Solution: Visual Inspection: Check for any signs of physical damage to the TPS63060, such as burnt areas or discoloration. Replace the Device: If no external causes are found and the device is still not starting, the TPS63060 itself may be defective. In this case, replacing the component might be necessary.

Conclusion: Troubleshooting Summary

To fix the "TPS63060DSCR Failed to Start" issue, follow these steps in sequence:

Check power supply – Ensure input voltage is within the specified range and current is sufficient. Verify external components – Confirm inductors, capacitors, and resistors are correct and properly placed. Look for short circuits – Inspect for solder bridges or shorts on the PCB. Ensure EN pin is correctly driven – Check if the EN pin voltage is at the correct logic level. Monitor switching signals – Verify the switching waveform at the SW pin. Inspect feedback loop – Check feedback resistors and the feedback voltage. Avoid thermal issues – Monitor temperature and improve heat dissipation. Check for component damage – If no external issues are found, consider replacing the device.

By systematically going through these steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue preventing the TPS63060DSCR from starting properly.