How to Use TP5100: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The TP5100 is a high-efficiency linear voltage regulator designed to deliver a stable output voltage with a low dropout. Manufactured by TP, this component is widely used in battery-powered devices due to its compact design, high efficiency, and robust protection features. The TP5100 integrates thermal protection, current limiting, and other safety mechanisms, making it a reliable choice for various applications.

• Battery charging circuits
• Portable electronic devices
• Power management systems
• Low-dropout voltage regulation in embedded systems
• IoT devices and wearables

The TP5100 is designed to operate efficiently in a variety of environments. Below are its key technical specifications:

The TP5100 is typically available in an 8-pin SOP (Small Outline Package). Below is the pinout and description:

1. Power Input: Connect the VIN pin to a DC power source within the range of 4.5V to 18V. Ensure the power source can supply sufficient current for your application.
2. Battery Connection: Connect the BAT pin to the positive terminal of the battery. The TP5100 supports single-cell (4.2V) or dual-cell (8.4V) lithium-ion batteries.
3. Output Voltage: The VOUT pin provides the regulated output voltage. Connect this pin to your load.
4. Enable Pin: Use the EN pin to enable or disable the regulator. Pull the pin high to enable the device or low to disable it.
5. Temperature Monitoring: For battery safety, connect an NTC thermistor to the TS pin. This allows the TP5100 to monitor the battery temperature and adjust charging accordingly.
6. Status Monitoring: Use the CHG_OK pin to monitor the charging status. This pin can be connected to an LED or a microcontroller for visual or digital feedback.

• Heat Dissipation: The TP5100 can generate heat during operation, especially at high currents. Use a heat sink or ensure proper PCB thermal design to dissipate heat effectively.
• Input Capacitor: Place a low-ESR capacitor (e.g., 10µF) close to the VIN pin to stabilize the input voltage.
• Output Capacitor: Use a capacitor (e.g., 22µF) at the VOUT pin to ensure stable output voltage.
• Battery Safety: Always use a compatible lithium-ion battery with built-in protection circuitry to prevent overcharging or deep discharge.
• Enable Pin Configuration: If the EN pin is not used, connect it to VIN to keep the regulator enabled.

The TP5100 can be used to power an Arduino UNO or charge a battery in an Arduino-based project. Below is an example of how to monitor the charging status using the CHG_OK pin:

// Example: Monitor TP5100 charging status with Arduino UNO

const int chgOkPin = 2; // CHG_OK pin connected to Arduino digital pin 2
const int ledPin = 13;  // Built-in LED on Arduino

void setup() {
  pinMode(chgOkPin, INPUT); // Set CHG_OK pin as input
  pinMode(ledPin, OUTPUT);  // Set LED pin as output
  Serial.begin(9600);       // Initialize serial communication
}

void loop() {
  int chargingStatus = digitalRead(chgOkPin); // Read CHG_OK pin status

  if (chargingStatus == LOW) {
    // Charging in progress
    digitalWrite(ledPin, HIGH); // Turn on LED
    Serial.println("Battery is charging...");
  } else {
    // Charging complete
    digitalWrite(ledPin, LOW);  // Turn off LED
    Serial.println("Charging complete.");
  }

  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second before checking again
}

1. No Output Voltage

   • Cause: The EN pin is not properly configured.
   • Solution: Ensure the EN pin is pulled high to enable the regulator.

2. Overheating

   • Cause: Insufficient heat dissipation or excessive load current.
   • Solution: Add a heat sink or improve PCB thermal design. Reduce the load current if possible.

3. Battery Not Charging

   • Cause: Incorrect battery connection or incompatible battery type.
   • Solution: Verify the battery connection and ensure the battery is a compatible lithium-ion type.

4. Unstable Output Voltage

   • Cause: Missing or insufficient input/output capacitors.
   • Solution: Add low-ESR capacitors (e.g., 10µF at VIN and 22µF at VOUT).

Q1: Can the TP5100 charge other types of batteries?
A1: No, the TP5100 is specifically designed for lithium-ion batteries. Using it with other battery chemistries may result in improper charging or damage.

Q2: What happens if the input voltage exceeds 18V?
A2: The TP5100 may be damaged if the input voltage exceeds its maximum rating. Always ensure the input voltage is within the specified range.

Q3: Can I leave the TS pin unconnected?
A3: Yes, but it is recommended to connect an NTC thermistor for battery temperature monitoring to enhance safety.

Q4: How do I know when the battery is fully charged?
A4: The CHG_OK pin will go high when the battery is fully charged. You can use this pin to drive an LED or interface with a microcontroller.