How to Use TIC 36V4: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The TIC 36V4, manufactured by Pololu, is a high-performance integrated circuit designed for power management applications. It is capable of handling input voltages of up to 36 volts and is equipped with advanced features such as thermal protection and efficiency optimization. This makes it an ideal choice for applications requiring reliable and efficient power delivery.

• Motor control systems
• Robotics and automation
• Battery-powered devices
• Industrial power management
• High-efficiency DC-DC converters

The TIC 36V4 is designed to deliver robust performance in demanding environments. Below are its key technical specifications:

The TIC 36V4 features a compact pinout for easy integration into circuits. Below is the pin configuration:

The TIC 36V4 is versatile and can be used in a variety of circuits. Below are the steps and best practices for using the component:

1. Power Supply: Connect a DC power source (8 V to 36 V) to the VIN pin. Ensure the power source can supply sufficient current for your application.
2. Ground Connection: Connect the GND pin to the ground of your circuit.
3. Output Connection: Connect the load to the VOUT pin. Ensure the load does not exceed the maximum current rating of 4 A.
4. Enable Pin: Use the ENABLE pin to control the output. Pull it high to enable the output or low to disable it.

The TIC 36V4 can be controlled via I²C or TTL serial communication. Below is an example of using I²C with an Arduino UNO:

#include <Wire.h> // Include the Wire library for I²C communication

#define TIC_I2C_ADDRESS 0x0F // Replace with the actual I²C address of your TIC 36V4

void setup() {
  Wire.begin(); // Initialize I²C communication
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication for debugging

  // Send a command to enable the TIC 36V4 output
  Wire.beginTransmission(TIC_I2C_ADDRESS);
  Wire.write(0x85); // Example command to enable output (refer to TIC 36V4 datasheet)
  Wire.endTransmission();

  Serial.println("TIC 36V4 initialized and output enabled.");
}

void loop() {
  // Add your application logic here
}

• Thermal Management: Ensure adequate cooling for the TIC 36V4, especially in high-current applications. Use a heatsink or active cooling if necessary.
• Input Voltage: Do not exceed the maximum input voltage of 36 V to avoid damaging the component.
• Noise Filtering: Add decoupling capacitors near the VIN and VOUT pins to reduce noise and improve stability.

1. No Output Voltage

   • Cause: The ENABLE pin is not pulled high.
   • Solution: Check the ENABLE pin connection and ensure it is set to a high logic level.

2. Overheating

   • Cause: Excessive current draw or insufficient cooling.
   • Solution: Reduce the load current or improve thermal management with a heatsink or fan.

3. Communication Failure

   • Cause: Incorrect I²C address or wiring.
   • Solution: Verify the I²C address and ensure proper connections for SCL and SDA lines.

4. Output Voltage Instability

   • Cause: Insufficient decoupling or noisy input power.
   • Solution: Add decoupling capacitors (e.g., 100 µF and 0.1 µF) near the VIN and VOUT pins.

Q: Can the TIC 36V4 be used with a 12 V battery?
A: Yes, the TIC 36V4 supports input voltages as low as 8 V, making it compatible with 12 V batteries.

Q: How do I reset the TIC 36V4?
A: To reset the TIC 36V4, disconnect the power supply and reconnect it after a few seconds.

Q: Is the TIC 36V4 compatible with 3.3 V logic?
A: Yes, the TIC 36V4 supports both 3.3 V and 5 V logic levels for communication interfaces.

Q: Can I use the TIC 36V4 for motor control?
A: Yes, the TIC 36V4 is suitable for motor control applications, provided the motor's voltage and current requirements are within the component's specifications.