As with any power conversion device, the LMS36x5-Q1 dissipates internal power while operating. The effect of this power dissipation is to raise the internal temperature of the converter above ambient. The internal die temperature (T_J) is a function of the ambient temperature, the power loss, and the effective thermal resistance, R_θJA of the device and PCB combination. The maximum internal die temperature for the LMS3655-Q1 is 150°C, thus establishing a limit on the maximum device power dissipation and therefore load current at high ambient temperatures. Equation 5 shows the relationships between the important parameters.

Equation 5.

The device uses an advanced package technology that uses the pads and pins as heat spreading paths. As a result, the pads must be connected to large copper areas to dissipate the heat from the IC. All pins provide some heat relief capability but the PVINs, PGNDs, and SW pins are of particular importance for proper heat dissipation. Utilization of all the board layers for heat dissipation and using vias as heat pipes is recommended. The Section 11.1 includes an example that shows layout for proper heat management.