Diodes Incorporated AP1117D15L-13

Overview

AP1117D15L-13 from Diodes Incorporated is a 1A low-dropout linear voltage regulator with fixed 1.5V output, TO252-3L package, 1.4V max dropout at full load, ±2% output voltage accuracy, and integrated thermal shutdown. It delivers stable power to low-voltage logic circuits in PC peripherals and communication modules operating from 3V input supply.

For engineers reviewing the AP1117D15L-13 datasheet, AP1117D15L-13 pinout, AP1117D15L-13 application, or AP1117D15L-13 equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage under 1.4V at 1A, guaranteed 1.5V ±2% output tolerance across 0–125°C, thermal shutdown activation at 150°C, and compatibility with 10µF minimum output capacitance (ESR 0.15–20Ω).

Technical Context

The AP1117D15L-13 implements a bandgap-referenced error amplifier driving an NPN pass transistor, enabling fast transient response and 70dB ripple rejection at 180Hz. Its fixed-output architecture eliminates external resistor networks, simplifying layout for space-constrained applications.

Designed for operation with input voltages from 2.8V to 18V, it maintains regulation down to VIN = VOUT + 1.3V and supports continuous 1A output current with thermal limiting active above 150°C junction temperature. Load regulation is specified at ±15mV over 0–1A at 3V input.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AP1117D15L-13 uses the TO252-3L (DPAK) surface-mount package with exposed thermal pad on the underside. The tab is electrically connected to VOUT and serves as primary heat dissipation path. Thermal resistance θ_JA is 73°C/W on FR-4 with recommended 5mm×5mm copper pour.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LD1117S15TR and TLV1117-15CDCYR, AP1117D15L-13 offers superior thermal performance in TO252-3L (θ_JA = 73°C/W), explicit RoHS-compliant green compound, and optimized cost-per-watt for high-volume PC peripheral designs where ±2% tolerance is acceptable.

Availability

AP1117D15L-13 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PC peripheral power, VGA card core supply, and communication module logic rail applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant manufacturing.

Supply support for AP1117D15L-13 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

Diodes Incorporated is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and analog ICs, specializing in high-reliability power management, signal integrity, and protection solutions for industrial, computing, and communications markets.

The AP1117 series targets cost-sensitive, high-volume applications demanding robust thermal behavior and simple fixed-output regulation - particularly in PC add-in cards, embedded peripherals, and legacy interface modules where board space and bill-of-materials simplicity are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for AP1117D15L-13 to maintain regulation?

The device requires VIN ≥ VOUT + 1.3V to regulate properly, meaning minimum input is 2.8V. At 1A load, dropout rises to 1.4V maximum, so 2.9V input ensures margin. Below 2.8V, output collapses linearly with input; no brown-out detection or undervoltage lockout is included.

Can AP1117D15L-13 be used with ceramic output capacitors?

Yes, but only if ESR is ≥0.15Ω. Standard X7R/X5R ceramics typically have ESR <10mΩ and may cause instability. Use RC-damped ceramics (e.g., with 1Ω series resistor) or hybrid capacitors combining ceramic bulk with polymer/tantalum for ESR compliance and optimal transient response.

How does thermal shutdown behave during sustained overload?

When junction temperature reaches 150°C, the regulator disables output and remains off until die cools to ~135°C, then resumes regulation. This hiccup-mode cycling prevents permanent damage but causes intermittent power loss - proper heatsinking or current limiting upstream is essential for continuous operation.

Is AP1117D15L-13 compatible with lead-free reflow profiles?

Yes. It is qualified for standard Pb-free reflow per JEDEC J-STD-020, with peak temperature up to 260°C. The TO252-3L package uses matte tin plating and green molding compound compliant with EU Directive 2002/95/EC (RoHS), including all applicable exemptions.