10.1 Layout Guidelines

As for all switching power supplies, the layout is an important step in the design. Proper function of the device demands careful attention to PCB layout. Take care in board layout to get the specified performance. If the layout is not carefully done, the regulator could show poor line and/or load regulation, stability issues as well as EMI problems. It is critical to provide a low inductance, impedance ground path. Therefore, use wide and short traces for the main current paths. The input capacitor should be placed as close as possible to the IC pins as well as the inductor and output capacitor.

Connect the GND pin of the device to the exposed thermal pad of the PCB and use this pad as a star point. Use a common power GND node and a different node for the signal GND to minimize the effects of ground noise. Connect these ground nodes together to the exposed thermal pad (star point) underneath the IC. Keep the common path to the GND pin, which returns the small signal components and the high current of the output capacitors as short as possible to avoid ground noise. The FB line should be connected right to the output capacitor and routed away from noisy components and traces (for example, the SW line).

10.2 Layout Example

Figure 22. PCB Layout