Diodes Incorporated AP1186T5-18L-U
- Part No.:
- AP1186T5-18L-U
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Package:
- TO-220-5
- Datasheet:
-
AP1186T5-18L-U.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG LINEAR 1.8V 1.5A TO220-5
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,286
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Product details
Overview
AP1186T5-18L-U from Diodes Incorporated is a 1.5A ultra-low dropout positive fixed-mode linear regulator in TO220-5L package, delivering 1.8V output with ≤0.38V dropout at 1.5A load, built-in thermal shutdown and current limiting, and remote sensing capability via Vsense pin - used to power GPU core supplies (e.g., 2.4–2.7V logic rails) from 3.3V ATX sources.
For engineers reviewing the AP1186T5-18L-U datasheet, AP1186T5-18L-U pinout, AP1186T5-18L-U application, or AP1186T5-18L-U equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage under full load, remote sense stability, thermal resistance (2.5°C/W junction-to-case), control pin (Vctrl) biasing requirements, and fixed-output tolerance (±2% at 10mA, ±1.2% typical).
Technical Context
The AP1186T5-18L-U uses an NPN pass transistor architecture with externally biased Vctrl pin, enabling sub-0.4V dropout while avoiding PNP base-current losses. Its five-terminal topology separates Vout and Vsense for true remote load regulation.
It operates with Vctrl ≥ Vin + 1V and requires ≥100µF output capacitance for stability. The device achieves 60–70dB ripple rejection at 120Hz and supports fast transient response critical for GPU supply rails switching from 0A to 1.5A in <500ns.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | Fixed 1.8V ±2% at 10mA; tight regulation enables direct powering of 1.8V GPU I/O domains without post-regulation trimming. |
| Dropout Voltage (Vin−Vout) | 0.26V (min) / 0.38V (max) at 1.5A - allows stable 1.8V output from 3.3V input with ≥1.5V headroom margin. |
| Load Regulation | 15–18mV over 0–1.5A load range - ensures voltage deviation stays within GPU core spec limits during dynamic current steps. |
| Ripple Rejection | 60–70dB at 120Hz - suppresses ATX supply ripple before it reaches sensitive graphics logic. |
| Thermal Resistance θJC | 2.5°C/W - enables 1.68W dissipation (at 3.3V→1.8V/1.5A) with manageable junction temperature using standard TO220 heatsinking. |
| Control Pin (Vctrl) Requirement | Vctrl ≥ Vin + 1V (e.g., 4.3V when Vin = 3.3V) - mandates dedicated bias rail or local LDO for reliable regulation. |
| Minimum Load Current | 5–10mA - prevents instability during low-power GPU idle states; satisfied by typical 1.8V I/O termination loads. |
Pinout & Package
AP1186T5-18L-U is housed in a lead-free TO220-5L package with exposed tab electrically connected to Vout for thermal conduction and low-impedance output return path.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1: Vin | Input supply connection | Main power input; must remain > Vout + dropout voltage; requires bulk capacitor to prevent sag during transients. |
| 2: Vctrl | Internal control circuit & pass transistor base drive supply | Bias rail ≥ Vin + 1V; powers internal reference and driver stage; decoupling ≥100µF mandatory for stability. |
| 3: Adj (GND) | Adjust reference node / ground return (fixed mode) | Internally tied to GND in fixed-voltage variants (e.g., AP1186T5-18L-U); not used for external resistor divider. |
| 4: Vout | Regulated output terminal | Delivers 1.8V; tab-connected; connects directly to load and output capacitor; serves as thermal interface. |
| 5: Vsense | Remote output voltage sense input | Connects to load point to compensate PCB trace IR drop; enables ±1% load regulation accuracy at point-of-load. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Ultra-low dropout operation | 0.26V min dropout at 1.5A enables high-efficiency linear regulation from 3.3V ATX rails without switching noise. |
| True remote sensing | Dedicated Vsense pin compensates for up to 50mV PCB trace drop, maintaining 1.8V ±1% at GPU die despite board layout variations. |
| Fast transient response | Stable under 300–500ns current steps (0→1.5A), meeting GPU core supply slew requirements without added ceramic bank. |
| Integrated protection | Thermal shutdown triggers at ~150°C junction; current limiting activates at 1.6A - prevents damage during overload or short-circuit events. |
| Lead-free & RoHS-compliant | Meets EU Directive Annex Notes 5 and 7 exemptions; compatible with Pb-free reflow profiles per J-STD-020. |
Applications
| GPU Core Power Supply | ATX Motherboard VRM Auxiliary Rail |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Delivering stable 1.8V to graphics processor I/O interfaces requiring tight voltage tolerance and rapid current response. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary linear post-regulator supplying GPU memory controller and display interface logic. Use Value: Eliminates need for complex multi-phase buck converters in cost-sensitive mid-tier graphics cards while meeting JEDEC DDR4 I/O voltage specs. |
Use Scenario: Generating auxiliary 1.8V rail on ATX motherboards where 3.3V and 5V are available but 1.8V is not provided by main VRM. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standalone fixed-output LDO providing isolated, low-noise 1.8V for PCIe slot logic or chipset I/O buffers. Use Value: Reduces BOM count by avoiding dedicated 1.8V switching controller; leverages existing ATX 3.3V rail with minimal layout impact. |
| Industrial FPGA I/O Bank Regulator | Test Equipment Digital Logic Supply |
|
Use Scenario: Powering FPGA I/O banks configured for LVCMOS18 standards in programmable logic systems operating from 3.3V intermediate bus. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Point-of-load regulator ensuring clean, well-regulated 1.8V with remote sense compensation for long trace runs on dense PCBs. Use Value: Maintains signal integrity across wide temperature range (0–150°C) without derating; supports hot-swap compatibility via current limit. |
Use Scenario: Providing low-noise 1.8V supply to high-speed digital test fixtures where switching regulator EMI would interfere with measurement accuracy. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-EMI linear regulator isolating sensitive DUT power from noisy system rails. Use Value: Delivers 70dB ripple rejection and <18mV load regulation - critical for jitter-sensitive clock distribution and ADC reference circuits. |
Availability
AP1186T5-18L-U is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GPU core power supply, ATX motherboard auxiliary rail generation, and industrial FPGA I/O bank regulation requiring stable component supply and legacy-compatible packaging.
Supply support for AP1186T5-18L-U 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 computing, industrial, and consumer markets.
The AP1186 series belongs to Diodes' high-current LDO portfolio, designed specifically for low-dropout, high-transient-response applications in graphics subsystems and ATX-derived power architectures where simplicity and noise immunity outweigh efficiency trade-offs.
FAQ
What is the required Vctrl voltage for AP1186T5-18L-U to regulate properly?
Vctrl must be at least 1V higher than Vin (e.g., ≥4.3V when Vin = 3.3V). This bias powers the internal control circuitry and pass transistor base drive. Failure to meet this requirement causes loss of regulation and uncontrolled output collapse. A dedicated 5V rail or local LDO is recommended for robust operation.
Can AP1186T5-18L-U be used without remote sensing (Vsense tied to Vout)?
Yes - Vsense may be directly connected to Vout for local regulation. However, doing so forfeits remote sense compensation, increasing output error by up to 50mV due to PCB trace resistance. For GPU or FPGA applications where load is physically distant, remote sensing is strongly advised to maintain ±1% accuracy at the die.
Why does AP1186T5-18L-U require ≥100µF output capacitance?
The 100µF minimum aluminum electrolytic capacitor provides essential frequency compensation for loop stability and improves transient response. Lower values risk oscillation or overshoot during 0→1.5A load steps. ESR in the 50–100mΩ range is optimal; ceramic-only solutions are unstable without added ESR or damping networks.
Is AP1186T5-18L-U still in production or obsolete?
AP1186T5-18L-U is marked obsolete by Diodes Incorporated with no official replacement announced. Aetrix Electronics maintains limited legacy stock for design continuity and repair programs. Customers are advised to evaluate alternatives such as AP2202K-18 (SOT-23-5, 300mA) or migrate to newer high-current LDOs like AP7361C-18YG-13 (1A, 350mV dropout) where feasible.
AP1186T5-18L-U Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-220-5
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Regulators:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 16V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 1.8V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Voltage Dropout (Max):
- 0.38V @ 1.5A
- Current - Output:
- 1.5A
- Current - Quiescent (Iq):
- 10 mA
- Current - Supply (Max):
- 150 µA
- PSRR:
- 70dB (120Hz)
- Control Features:
- -
- Protection Features:
- Over Current, Over Temperature
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-220-5
AP1186T5-18L-U FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AP1186T5-18L-U through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AP1186T5-18L-U on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for AP1186T5-18L-U reliable?
The price and inventory of AP1186T5-18L-U are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AP1186T5-18L-U is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AP1186T5-18L-U?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AP1186T5-18L-U transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AP1186T5-18L-U?
AP1186T5-18L-U orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AP1186T5-18L-U order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for AP1186T5-18L-U?
For technical support, including AP1186T5-18L-U datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AP1186T5-18L-U requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AP1186T5-18L-U is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AP1186T5-18L-U products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that AP1186T5-18L-U meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AP1186T5-18L-U?
All AP1186T5-18L-U units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AP1186T5-18L-U, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The AP1186T5-18L-U part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AP1186T5-18L-U:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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