Asahi Kasei Microdevices/AKM AP1150ADS18

Overview

AP1150ADS18 from Diodes Incorporated is a fixed-output, 1.8 V low-dropout linear regulator with 200 mA output capability, ±1.5% output voltage accuracy, 120 mV dropout at 100 mA, and 80 dB PSRR at 1 kHz - designed for noise-sensitive analog and RF power supply rails including LNA, VCO, and image sensor units.

For engineers reviewing the AP1150ADS18 datasheet, AP1150ADS18 pinout, AP1150ADS18 application, or AP1150ADS18 equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, SOT23-5 package layout guidance, noise-bypass terminal (NP) design implications, and validated alternatives for low-noise post-regulation in precision analog systems.

Technical Context

The AP1150ADS18 integrates a bandgap reference, error amplifier, and NMOS pass transistor in a high-PSRR, low-noise architecture. Its internal 500 kΩ pull-down resistor on VCONT enables direct CMOS-level ON/OFF control without external biasing.

It features dedicated NP (Noise Pass) terminal for external capacitor connection to suppress low-frequency ripple and improve PSRR below 100 kHz; CL stability is ensured with ≥0.1 µF ceramic output capacitance for VOUT = 1.8 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT23-5 package (2.9 × 2.8 × 1.3 mm, JEDEC MO-178AA), thermally enhanced with exposed pad not present - GND-connected die pad omitted per SOT23-5 mechanical spec. Pin 1 marked by dot; top-view orientation as defined in datasheet Figure 7.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP1700T-1802E/TT and XC6206P182MR-G, the AP1150ADS18 uniquely combines high PSRR, dedicated NP terminal for noise tailoring, and integrated CMOS-compatible ON/OFF control - making it the only option among the three qualified for RF and precision analog post-regulation where both noise and controllability matter.

Availability

AP1150ADS18 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for RF power supplies, low-noise image sensor units, and precision power supplies requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing for production programs.

Supply support for AP1150ADS18 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 semiconductor company specializing in discrete, analog, and mixed-signal ICs, with emphasis on power management, signal integrity, and protection solutions for industrial, computing, and consumer markets.

The AP1150 series belongs to Diodes' high-PSRR, low-noise LDO portfolio - engineered specifically for noise-critical analog and RF subsystems where clean, stable, and controllable voltage rails are essential.

FAQ

What is the guaranteed output voltage tolerance for AP1150ADS18 over temperature?

The AP1150ADS18 guarantees output voltage within ±1.5% or ±50 mV (whichever is greater) across the full operating temperature range of –40°C to +85°C. At 25°C, typical output is 1.800 V with min/max of 1.750 V / 1.850 V; over temperature, the range widens to 1.720 V / 1.880 V per Table 3 in the datasheet. This accuracy ensures reliable operation of 1.8 V logic and analog interfaces without external trimming.

Does AP1150ADS18 require an external capacitor on the NP terminal, and what value is recommended?

Yes, the AP1150ADS18 requires an external capacitor on the NP terminal to achieve specified PSRR and low-noise performance. The datasheet recommends CNP = 0.001 µF as a baseline, but increasing CNP (e.g., to 0.01 µF or 0.1 µF) improves low-frequency ripple rejection and reduces 1/f noise - especially critical in RF and precision analog applications. The IC is not damaged by larger values, and NP capacitor selection is a key design lever for noise optimization in the AP1150ADS18.

Can AP1150ADS18 operate stably with a 0.1 µF ceramic output capacitor at 1.8 V output?

Yes, the AP1150ADS18 is explicitly characterized and guaranteed stable with a minimum 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor (CL) on the VOUT pin when regulating 1.8 V - as confirmed in Section 11.4 and Figure 3 of the datasheet. This eliminates need for larger or higher-ESR tantalum capacitors in space-constrained designs, while maintaining phase margin and transient response across –40°C to +85°C.

What is the maximum input voltage the AP1150ADS18 can withstand continuously?

The AP1150ADS18 has an absolute maximum input voltage rating of 16 V, but its recommended operating input voltage range is 2.1 V to 14.0 V. Continuous operation above 14.0 V is outside specification and may compromise reliability or trigger overvoltage stress. For robust long-term operation in automotive or industrial environments, design margins should keep VIN ≤ 13.5 V to accommodate transients and ensure thermal safety within the 150°C junction limit.

How does the VCONT pin function, and what logic levels enable or disable AP1150ADS18?

The VCONT pin on the AP1150ADS18 is a high-active ON/OFF control input with an internal 500 kΩ pull-down resistor. The regulator enables (VOUT active) when VCONT ≥ 1.8 V, and disables (VOUT = 0 V, ISTANDBY ≤ 0.5 µA) when VCONT ≤ 0.35 V. This allows direct interfacing with standard CMOS logic outputs without external biasing - simplifying power sequencing in multi-rail systems while minimizing quiescent current in standby mode.