FEDEVEL
Platform forum

kunal , 07-23-2024, 01:24 PM

how do I make that thermal pad in the PCB editor? Is it a mechanical pad or a simple SMD pad?

kunal , 07-23-2024, 01:25 PM

Package geometry (overall)

Length = 565 mils
Width = 410 mils
Mechanical/Thermal Un-Plated Pad (underneath the body of the chip)

Length = 410 mils
Width = 425 mils
Pad - Pins

7 total pins
Pad length = 36 mils
Pad width = 85 mils
Pad spacing = 50 mils (center of one pad to center of the next pad) IC : LM2676 TEXAS INSTRUMENTS

SirJames , 07-23-2024, 02:53 PM

Most thermal pads are internally connected to ground or other pin of chip and should be connected to the same net on PCB. So it is definitely normal SMD pad defined in schematic symbol.

QDrives , 07-23-2024, 07:11 PM

The only addition to make to @SirJames comment is that the thermal pad may need special considerations with vias, solder mask defined and most importantly, the paste make.
https://youtu.be/cMxXea16Hxc?t=3507