I_rms of input capacitor to buck controller. What is it?

Hello there,

The MAX8792 datasheet (https://www.electro-tech-online.com/custompdfs/2012/01/MAX8792-1.pdf) depict a C[SUB]in[/SUB]. It is placed on the input to the high-side switching MOSFET and the T[SUB]on[/SUB]-pin.

The datasheet says:

The input capacitor must meet the ripple current requirement (I[SUB]RMS[/SUB]) imposed by the switching currents. The I[SUB]RMS[/SUB] requirements may be determined by the following equation:

[LATEX]I_R_M_S = (\frac{I_L_O_A_D}{V_I_N})\sqrt{V_o_u_t(V_i_n-V_o_u_t)}[/LATEX]

Click to expand...

In layman's terms, what is the I[SUB]RMS[/SUB] referred to here? Is this the ripple current rating the capacitor must have for longlivity? Is this some kind of current requirement to for proper output current capability?

Thank you for your time.

Kind regards,
Marius

Hi,

The capacitor you buy to use with your circuit must have a rating at least equal to the max ripple current requirement or else it will heat up too much and possibly blow out much too soon.