10.1 Layout Guidelines

Careful PCB layout is critical to achieve low EMI and stable power supply operation. Make the high frequency current loops as small as possible, and follow these guidelines of good layout practices:

1. Keep the high-current paths short. This is essential for stable, jitter-free operation.
2. Keep the power traces and load connections short. This is essential for high efficiency. Using 2 oz or thicker copper can enhance full load efficiency.
3. Minimize current-sensing errors by routing CS and VOUT using a kelvin sensing directly across the current sense resistor (R_SENSE).
4. Route high-speed switching nodes (HB, HO, LO, and SW) away from sensitive analog signals (FB, CS, and VOUT).