Thermal protection disables the output when the junction temperature rises to approximately 170°C, allowing the device to cool. When the junction temperature cools to approximately 150°C, the output circuitry is enabled. Depending on power dissipation, thermal resistance, and ambient temperature, the thermal protection circuit may cycle on and off. This cycling limits the dissipation of the regulator, protecting the regulator from damage as a result of overheating.

Any tendency to activate the thermal protection circuit indicates excessive power dissipation or an inadequate heat-spreading area. For reliable operation, limit junction temperature to a maximum of 125°C at the worst-case ambient temperature for a given application. To estimate the margin of safety in a complete design (including the copper heat-spreading area), increase the ambient temperature until the thermal protection is triggered; use worst-case loads and signal conditions. For good reliability, trigger thermal protection at least 45°C above the maximum expected ambient condition of the particular application. This configuration produces a worst-case junction temperature of 125°C at the highest expected ambient temperature and worst-case load.

The internal protection circuitry of the TPS7A16A is designed to protect against overload conditions. This circuitry is not intended to replace proper heat sinking. Continuously running the TPS7A16A into thermal shutdown degrades device reliability.