12.1 Layout Guidelines

For best performance, all traces should be as short as possible. To be most effective, the input and output capacitors should be placed close to the device to minimize the effects that parasitic trace inductances may have on normal operation. Using wide traces for V_IN, V_OUT, and GND helps minimize the parasitic electrical effects along with minimizing the case to ambient thermal impedance.

12.1.1 Thermal Considerations

For best device performance, be sure to follow the thermal guidelines in the Thermal Information table. To calculate max allowable continuous current for your application for a specific V_IN and ambient temperature, use the following formula:

Where:

IMAX=	Max allowable continuous current
TJ=	Max thermal junction temperature (125°C)
TA=	Ambient temperature of the application
θJA=	Junction-to-air thermal impedance (216°C/W)
RON=	RON at a specified input voltage VIN (see Electrical Characteristics)

12.2 Layout Example

Figure 31. Layout Drawing