Diodes Incorporated AP1186K5-50G-13

Overview

AP1186K5-50G-13 from Diodes Incorporated is a 1.5A ultra-low dropout positive fixed-mode linear regulator in TO263-5L package, delivering a stable 5.0V output with ≤0.38V dropout at 1.5A load, ±1% load regulation, and 70dB ripple rejection - engineered for GPU core supply and ATX-based motherboard applications requiring tight transient response and remote sensing.

For engineers reviewing the AP1186K5-50G-13 datasheet, AP1186K5-50G-13 pinout, AP1186K5-50G-13 application, or AP1186K5-50G-13 equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage under full load, remote sense capability (Vsense pin), thermal shutdown behavior, control pin (Vctrl) biasing requirements, and compatibility with high-ESR electrolytic output capacitors.

Technical Context

The AP1186K5-50G-13 implements an NPN-based architecture with externally biased Vctrl pin, enabling sub-0.4V dropout while avoiding base-current losses typical of PNP regulators. Its dedicated Vsense pin supports true remote voltage sensing to compensate for PCB trace IR drop.

It operates with separate Vin and Vctrl inputs - Vctrl must exceed Vout by ≥1V and supplies internal control circuitry and pass transistor base drive. The fixed 5.0V output is internally trimmed to ±1.5% over temperature and load, eliminating external resistor networks required in adjustable variants.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AP1186K5-50G-13 is housed in a surface-mount TO263-5L (D²PAK) package with exposed tab electrically connected to Vout for thermal conduction and low-inductance output path.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AP1186T5-50G-13 and TLV1117-50CDCYR, the AP1186K5-50G-13 uniquely combines 1.5A capacity, true remote sensing, and dual-input biasing in a thermally efficient SMT package - making it the only option among the three capable of sustaining GPU-level transient loads while maintaining ±1% regulation at the point-of-load.

Availability

AP1186K5-50G-13 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GPU core power supply, ATX motherboard auxiliary rails, and industrial FPGA I/O bank regulation requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant surface-mount packaging.

Supply support for AP1186K5-50G-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-efficiency power management, signal integrity, and protection solutions for computing, industrial, and consumer markets.

The AP1186 product line delivers ultra-low dropout linear regulators with remote sensing and dual-bias capability - designed specifically for high-performance digital loads like GPUs and FPGAs where traditional LDOs fail to meet transient and accuracy requirements.

FAQ

What is the minimum output capacitance required for stability?

The AP1186K5-50G-13 requires a minimum 100µF aluminum electrolytic capacitor at the Vout pin to ensure loop stability and adequate transient response. This value assumes typical ESR of 50–100mΩ; lower-ESR ceramics alone are insufficient without series resistance to emulate required RC time constant.

Can Vctrl be tied directly to Vin?

No - Vctrl must be ≥Vout + 1V and is not intended to track Vin. Tying Vctrl to Vin risks violating this condition when Vin sags near dropout, causing loss of regulation. In ATX systems, Vctrl should be sourced from a stable 5V rail independent of the Vin rail feeding the regulator.

Does the Vsense pin require a dedicated PCB trace?

Yes - Vsense must connect directly to the load's power input pin (e.g., GPU VCCIO) via a dedicated, low-impedance trace. Sharing the Vsense trace with ground or other signals introduces measurement error and defeats remote sensing; routing should avoid noisy digital or switching nodes.

Is thermal shutdown latched or auto-recovering?

Thermal shutdown is auto-recovering: the device disables output when junction temperature exceeds ~150°C and resumes regulation once TJ falls below the hysteresis threshold (~140°C). No external reset or power cycle is needed, but sustained operation above safe thermal limits will cause repeated cycling.