How to Use LaskaKit TPS62A02 Step-down 4.0-5.5V 3.3V/2A: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The LaskaKit TPS62A02 is a high-efficiency step-down (buck) voltage regulator designed to convert input voltages ranging from 4.0V to 5.5V into a stable 3.3V output. It is capable of delivering up to 2A of continuous current, making it ideal for powering low-voltage devices from higher-voltage sources. This compact and reliable regulator is widely used in applications such as microcontroller-based systems, IoT devices, portable electronics, and battery-powered projects.

• Powering 3.3V microcontrollers (e.g., ESP32, Arduino boards with 3.3V logic)
• Supplying stable voltage to sensors and modules
• Battery-powered devices requiring efficient voltage conversion
• IoT and wearable electronics

The following table outlines the key technical details of the LaskaKit TPS62A02:

The TPS62A02 comes in a compact SOT-23-6 package with the following pinout:

1. Input Voltage: Connect a DC voltage source (4.0V to 5.5V) to the VIN pin. Ensure the input voltage is within the specified range to avoid damage.
2. Output Voltage: Connect the load to the VOUT pin. The output will be a stable 3.3V.
3. Inductor and Capacitors: Use an appropriate inductor (e.g., 2.2µH) and input/output capacitors (e.g., 10µF ceramic capacitors) as per the datasheet recommendations for optimal performance.
4. Enable Pin: To enable the regulator, connect the EN pin to a logic HIGH signal or directly to VIN. To disable, pull the EN pin to GND.
5. Ground: Connect the GND pin to the ground of the circuit.

• Thermal Management: Ensure adequate heat dissipation, especially when operating near the maximum current limit of 2A.
• PCB Layout: Minimize the trace length between the SW pin and the inductor to reduce noise and improve efficiency.
• Input Voltage Ripple: Use low-ESR capacitors to minimize input voltage ripple.
• Startup Behavior: Ensure the EN pin is properly controlled during power-up to avoid erratic behavior.

Although the Arduino UNO operates at 5V logic, the TPS62A02 can be used to power 3.3V peripherals. Below is an example of how to use the TPS62A02 to power a 3.3V sensor:

• Connect the Arduino's 5V pin to the VIN pin of the TPS62A02.
• Connect the VOUT pin of the TPS62A02 to the sensor's power input.
• Connect the GND pin of the TPS62A02 to the Arduino's GND.

// Example code to read data from a 3.3V sensor powered by TPS62A02
// Ensure the sensor's data pin is connected to an appropriate Arduino pin

const int sensorPin = A0; // Analog pin connected to the sensor output

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication
  pinMode(sensorPin, INPUT); // Set the sensor pin as input
}

void loop() {
  int sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin); // Read the sensor value
  float voltage = sensorValue * (3.3 / 1023.0); // Convert to voltage (3.3V reference)
  
  // Print the sensor voltage to the Serial Monitor
  Serial.print("Sensor Voltage: ");
  Serial.print(voltage);
  Serial.println(" V");
  
  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second before the next reading
}

1. No Output Voltage

   • Cause: The EN pin is not connected or is pulled LOW.
   • Solution: Ensure the EN pin is connected to a logic HIGH signal or VIN.

2. Overheating

   • Cause: Excessive current draw or poor thermal management.
   • Solution: Verify the load current is within the 2A limit. Improve heat dissipation by using a proper PCB layout or adding a heatsink.

3. Output Voltage Instability

   • Cause: Incorrect or insufficient input/output capacitors.
   • Solution: Use low-ESR ceramic capacitors as recommended in the datasheet.

4. High Noise on Output

   • Cause: Poor PCB layout or long traces.
   • Solution: Minimize trace lengths and place components as close as possible to the regulator.

Q: Can the TPS62A02 be used with a 12V input?
A: No, the maximum input voltage for the TPS62A02 is 5.5V. Using a higher voltage may damage the component.

Q: Is the output voltage adjustable?
A: No, the TPS62A02 provides a fixed 3.3V output. For adjustable output, consider other regulators in the TPS62 series.

Q: Can I use the TPS62A02 to power a 3.3V microcontroller?
A: Yes, the TPS62A02 is ideal for powering 3.3V microcontrollers, provided the total current draw does not exceed 2A.

Q: What happens if the load exceeds 2A?
A: The regulator may enter thermal shutdown or current limit protection to prevent damage. Ensure the load stays within the specified limit.