A good PCB layout for the TPA4861DR involves keeping the audio signal traces short and away from the power supply traces, using a solid ground plane, and placing the IC close to the power supply decoupling capacitors. TI provides a recommended PCB layout in the datasheet and application notes.
The gain setting depends on the input signal level and the desired output power. The TPA4861DR has a gain range of 20 dB to 30 dB. For most applications, a gain of 26 dB is a good starting point. You can adjust the gain by changing the values of the feedback resistors (Rf and Ri) according to the datasheet's gain calculation formula.
The TPA4861DR can operate with a power supply voltage up to 26 V. However, it's recommended to keep the voltage between 12 V and 18 V for optimal performance and to prevent overheating.
To prevent overheating, ensure good airflow around the IC, use a heat sink if necessary, and keep the power supply voltage within the recommended range. You can also monitor the IC's temperature using the thermal shutdown feature and take corrective action if it exceeds 150°C.
Yes, the TPA4861DR can be used in a bridged configuration to increase the output power. However, this requires additional external components and careful PCB layout to ensure proper operation and minimize distortion.