Why is Your TPS61021ADSGR Not Starting? Common Solutions

Why is Your TPS61021ADSGR Not Starting? Common Solutions

The TPS61021ADSGR is a boost converter used to step up low input voltage to higher levels. When it fails to start, it can be frustrating, but there are a number of potential reasons why this happens. Below, we’ll discuss the common causes of failure, why they occur, and how you can troubleshoot and fix the issue step by step.

Common Reasons for the TPS61021ADSGR Not Starting:

Power Supply Issues The most basic issue could be that the power supply to the chip isn’t stable or within the required voltage range.

Cause: The input voltage might be too low for the TPS61021ADSGR to operate correctly. This can happen if the power source is weak, or if there's a fault in the power supply circuit.

Solution:

Step 1: Measure the input voltage with a multimeter to confirm it falls within the recommended range (typically 0.3V to 1.8V). Step 2: Ensure the power supply is working properly. Replace or check the power source if necessary. Step 3: If the input voltage is unstable or fluctuating, consider adding Capacitors or using a more stable power source.

Faulty Grounding or Connections Poor grounding or loose connections can prevent the boost converter from starting.

Cause: Loose or broken connections in the circuit, especially the ground pin, can cause issues with the startup of the device.

Solution:

Step 1: Double-check the circuit connections, including all power and ground lines. Step 2: Ensure the TPS61021ADSGR's ground pin is securely connected to the ground of your power supply. Step 3: Use a magnifying glass or microscope to inspect for broken solder joints or loose wires.

Overcurrent Protection Triggered If the output is drawing too much current, the TPS61021ADSGR might enter protection mode and stop functioning.

Cause: A short circuit or excessive load on the output can trigger overcurrent protection, causing the chip to shut down.

Solution:

Step 1: Check for any short circuits in the load or output circuit. Step 2: Measure the output current to ensure it is within the recommended range for your application. Step 3: Remove the load and test the boost converter again to see if it starts correctly. If it does, then the issue is likely with the load.

Faulty External Components (Inductor, capacitor s) External components like inductors and capacitors connected to the boost converter can also cause issues.

Cause: If the inductor value is incorrect or a capacitor is damaged or missing, it can prevent the TPS61021ADSGR from starting up properly.

Solution:

Step 1: Check the inductor value and make sure it meets the required specifications for the TPS61021ADSGR (typically a 10 µH inductor). Step 2: Inspect all capacitors connected to the chip for damage or wear. Replace any faulty components. Step 3: Check that the component values match the recommended values from the datasheet to ensure proper operation.

Faulty Enable Pin (EN Pin) The Enable (EN) pin controls whether the chip is active or in shutdown mode.

Cause: If the EN pin is not pulled high (to enable the device), the TPS61021ADSGR will not start.

Solution:

Step 1: Ensure the EN pin is connected to a proper logic high voltage (e.g., 1.8V or higher). Step 2: If using an external controller to manage the enable signal, make sure the controller is functioning and sending the correct signal. Step 3: If the EN pin is tied to a logic level that is too low or floating, pull it up to the proper voltage with a resistor.

Overvoltage Protection The boost converter has overvoltage protection to protect your circuit from unsafe voltage levels.

Cause: If the output voltage exceeds the maximum threshold, the TPS61021ADSGR may shut down.

Solution:

Step 1: Measure the output voltage to ensure it is within the intended range. Step 2: Check for any external conditions that may be causing the voltage to spike, such as improper feedback resistors or component failure. Step 3: Adjust the feedback network to control the output voltage accurately.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Process

Check Input Voltage: Ensure the input voltage is within the specified range (0.3V to 1.8V).

Inspect Connections: Verify that all connections are solid, especially the ground connection.

Test for Short Circuits: Disconnect the load and check if the TPS61021ADSGR starts correctly.

Verify External Components: Check the inductor and capacitors to ensure they meet specifications and are not damaged.

Confirm Enable Pin Status: Ensure the EN pin is driven high to enable the device.

Check Output Voltage: Measure the output to ensure the boost converter isn’t entering overvoltage protection.

By following these steps and checking each potential issue methodically, you should be able to identify and resolve why your TPS61021ADSGR isn’t starting. If all else fails, consider replacing the chip if it is determined to be defective.