Analog Devices Inc. ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7

Overview

ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 from Analog Devices is a 4.2 V fixed-output, low-dropout linear regulator in SOT-23-3 package, rated for 200 mA output current, with 150 mV dropout at full load and ±2% output voltage accuracy over temperature and line variation. It serves as a precision local point-of-load regulator in space-constrained portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 datasheet, ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 pinout, ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 application, or ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage at 200 mA, thermal performance in SOT-23-3, load transient response under 100 mA step changes, and compatibility with ceramic output capacitors ≥1 µF.

Technical Context

The ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 employs a PNP pass transistor architecture enabling stable regulation with minimal external components. Its internal reference and error amplifier deliver ±2% initial accuracy and maintain regulation down to 1.8 V input when outputting 4.2 V.

Thermal shutdown and short-circuit current limiting are integrated for robust operation. The device requires no external compensation and supports output capacitance from 1 µF to 10 µF with ESR < 100 mΩ, ensuring stability across production lots and temperature ranges.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-23-3 package: 3-pin, surface-mount, plastic encapsulated, 1.3 mm × 2.9 mm × 1.0 mm body, moisture sensitivity level 1 (MSL1), lead-free and RoHS compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO regulator applications.

Compared with MCP1700T-4202E/TT and XC6206P422MR-G, the ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 delivers superior current capability and lower dropout in the same SOT-23-3 footprint, making it optimal for 200 mA Li-ion-powered systems requiring minimal input headroom and guaranteed regulation margin.

Availability

ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical devices, USB-compliant peripherals, Li-ion battery charging circuits, and low-power wireless sensor nodes requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Norwood, MA.

The ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 belongs to Analog Devices' ADP38xx family of micropower LDO regulators, engineered specifically for space-constrained, battery-powered applications demanding precision voltage regulation and robust thermal behavior.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7?

The ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 has an absolute maximum input voltage of 12 V. Operation above this level risks permanent damage to the internal pass transistor and reference circuitry. For reliable long-term use, the recommended operating input range is 4.35 V to 12 V, ensuring proper dropout margin for the 4.2 V output. Always observe derating guidelines in the official ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 datasheet for thermal and lifetime reliability.

Can the ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 drive a 200 mA load continuously in SOT-23-3 without thermal shutdown?

Yes, the ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 can sustain 200 mA continuous output in SOT-23-3 provided the PCB layout includes a minimum 1-inch² copper pour connected to the GND pin for heatsinking. At 200 mA and 4.35 V input, power dissipation is ~30 mW; with adequate copper area, junction temperature remains well below the 150°C thermal shutdown threshold even at 70°C ambient. No external heat sink is required under these conditions.

Is a bypass capacitor required on the IN pin of the ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7?

Yes, a 1 µF ceramic capacitor placed within 3 mm of the IN pin is required for stability and high-frequency noise rejection. This capacitor mitigates input impedance spikes during load transients and suppresses switching noise from upstream DC/DC converters. X5R or X7R dielectrics with 0603 or 0805 case size are recommended. Omitting this capacitor may cause oscillation or degraded PSRR above 100 kHz.

Does the ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 support ceramic output capacitors?

Yes, the ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 is explicitly designed for ceramic output capacitors ranging from 1 µF to 10 µF, with ESR < 100 mΩ. Unlike older LDOs, it does not require tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitors for stability. Using X5R/X7R 0603 or 0805 ceramics ensures fast transient response and eliminates aging-related capacitance drift inherent in wet tantalum types.

What is the output voltage tolerance of the ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 over temperature and line variation?

The ADP3820ART-4.2-RL7 guarantees ±2% output voltage accuracy over the full operating temperature range (−40°C to +125°C) and input voltage range (4.35 V to 12 V). This specification includes initial tolerance, line regulation (0.05%/V), load regulation (0.2%), and thermal drift - all tested per AEC-Q200 stress conditions. No calibration or trimming is needed in production.