Thermal protection disables the output when the junction temperature rises to approximately 175°C, which allows the device to cool. When the junction temperature cools to approximately 160°C, the output circuitry enables. Based on power dissipation, thermal resistance, and ambient temperature, the thermal protection circuit can cycle off and on until the excessive power dissipation condition is removed. This cycling limits the dissipation of the regulator, thus protecting the regulator from damage as a result of overheating.

The internal protection circuitry of the TPS7B4255-Q1 is designed to protect against overload conditions. The circuitry is not intended to replace proper heat sinking. Continuously running the TPS7B4255-Q1 into thermal shutdown degrades device reliability.