11.1 Layout Guidelines

As for all switching power supplies, especially those running at high switching frequency and high currents, layout is an important design step. If layout is not carefully done, the regulator could suffer from instability and noise problems. To maximize efficiency, switch rise and fall times are very fast. To prevent radiation of high-frequency noise (for example, EMI), proper layout of the high-frequency switching path is essential. Minimize the length and area of all traces connected to the SW pin, and always use a ground plane under the switching regulator to minimize interplane coupling.

The input capacitor must be close to the VIN pin and GND pin in order to reduce the I_input supply ripple.

The layout should also be done with well consideration of the thermal as this is a high power density device. A thermal pad that improves the thermal capabilities of the package should be soldered to the large ground plate, using thermal vias underneath the thermal pad.