Diodes Incorporated AP1501-12K5G-13
- Part No.:
- AP1501-12K5G-13
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Package:
- TO-263-6, D2PAK (5 Leads + Tab), TO-263BA
- Datasheet:
-
AP1501-12K5G-13.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK 12V 3A TO263-5
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,373
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Product details
Overview
AP1501-12K5G-13 from Diodes Incorporated is a fixed-output 12V, 3A non-synchronous PWM buck DC/DC converter with 150kHz switching frequency, integrated power switch, thermal shutdown, and current-limit protection. It operates from 15V to 40V input, delivers ±4% output voltage tolerance at full load, and uses TO263-5 package for high-power density in industrial power supplies.
For engineers reviewing the AP1501-12K5G-13 datasheet, AP1501-12K5G-13 pinout, AP1501-12K5G-13 application, or AP1501-12K5G-13 equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 12V output, 3A continuous load capability, internal compensation eliminating external loop components, ON/OFF logic control, and thermal performance in TO263-5 with θJA = 37°C/W under standard PCB layout.
Technical Context
The AP1501-12K5G-13 implements voltage-mode PWM control with a built-in 1.235V reference and internal error amplifier, enabling stable regulation without external compensation networks. Its 150kHz oscillator (±15%) sets minimum inductor size at 47µH for 12V output, and the non-synchronous architecture requires an external Schottky catch diode (e.g., B340A).
Shutdown is controlled via the SD pin: logic-low ≤0.6V enables regulation; logic-high ≥2.0V forces standby mode with 150–250µA quiescent current. The metal tab is internally connected to GND, providing low-impedance thermal path to PCB copper, critical for maintaining TJ ≤125°C at 3A load across input range.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | Fixed 12V ±4% (11.52V–12.48V) under 0.2–3A load and 15–40V input |
| Switching Frequency | 150kHz ±15% (127–173kHz), enabling compact 47µH inductor and low EMI filtering |
| Max Output Current | 3A continuous, limited by internal 3.6–5.5A peak current threshold and thermal design |
| Input Voltage Range | 15V to 40V DC - supports wide-input industrial rails; absolute max 45V |
| Efficiency | 90% typical at VIN=15V, VOUT=12V, IOUT=3A - reduces heat dissipation vs linear regulators |
| Feedback Reference | Internal 1.235V bandgap reference - eliminates need for external divider in fixed-output version |
| Thermal Protection | Automatic shutdown at TJ ≥150°C, with recovery hysteresis - prevents permanent damage during overload |
Pinout & Package
AP1501-12K5G-13 is housed in a RoHS-compliant, lead-free TO263-5 surface-mount package with exposed metal tab thermally and electrically tied to GND. The package requires ≥0.4 in² (ideally ≥2 in²) of 2 oz copper on PCB for thermal management.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1: VIN | Positive input supply rail | Accepts 15–40V DC; requires local ceramic bypass capacitor to handle high di/dt switching currents |
| 2: Output | Internal power switch drain | Swings between ~VIN–1.4V (ON) and –0.5V (OFF); connects to inductor input - minimize copper area to reduce EMI coupling |
| 3: GND | Power and signal ground reference | Common return for VIN, FB, SD, and internal circuitry; electrically tied to metal tab for thermal conduction |
| 4: FB | Output voltage feedback node | Internally referenced to 1.235V - unused in fixed 12V version; must be left open or grounded per datasheet |
| 5: SD | Shutdown control input | Active-high logic interface: <0.6V = ON, >2.0V = OFF; draws ≤25µA when asserted high |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated 3A power switch | Eliminates external MOSFET and gate driver, reducing BOM count and layout complexity |
| Internal compensation network | Enables stable line/load regulation without external RC components - simplifies design validation |
| Logic-compatible ON/OFF control | Direct interface with microcontroller GPIO or system enable signals - no level-shifting required |
| Thermal shutdown + current limit | Dual-protection scheme prevents failure under short-circuit, overtemperature, or excessive duty cycle |
| TO263-5 package with GND tab | Provides low-thermal-resistance path (θJC = 6°C/W) to PCB copper - enables high-current operation without heatsink |
Applications
| Industrial Power Supply | Automotive Body Control Module |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Step-down conversion from 24V vehicle battery or 24V industrial bus to regulated 12V for sensors and actuators. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary non-isolated DC/DC regulator delivering clean, stable 12V at up to 3A. Use Value: High efficiency (90%) minimizes heat generation in enclosed ECUs; ON/OFF control enables sleep-mode current reduction to 250µA. |
Use Scenario: Local 12V rail generation for microcontrollers, CAN transceivers, and LED drivers in door modules or lighting systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-output buck converter supplying auxiliary power with fast transient response to load steps. Use Value: ±4% output tolerance ensures reliable operation of 12V-rated peripherals; thermal shutdown protects against sustained overloads in confined spaces. |
| Point-of-Load Converter | Legacy Equipment Retrofit |
|
Use Scenario: On-board 12V generation for FPGA I/O banks or analog front-ends where centralized 12V rail exhibits noise or drop. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Compact, self-contained buck regulator placed near load to improve PSRR and reduce IR drop. Use Value: TO263-5 footprint allows dense placement; 150kHz switching avoids sensitive RF bands while enabling small passive sizing. |
Use Scenario: Replacement for aging linear regulators (e.g., 7812) in legacy test equipment or PLC I/O modules requiring higher efficiency. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Drop-in upgrade path offering same 12V output but with 90% efficiency vs. ~40% for linear solutions. Use Value: Reduces thermal stress on PCB and enclosure; eliminates need for large heatsinks - extends service life of aging systems. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-output buck converter applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM2596S-12 | 3A, 150kHz, TO263-5, but requires external compensation and has ±2% output tolerance | Lacks integrated shutdown control; needs external transistor for enable functionality | Prefer when tighter output accuracy is required and board space allows compensation components |
| MP1584EN-LF-Z | 3A, 1.5MHz switching, SOIC-8, adjustable-only output - requires external resistor divider for 12V | Higher frequency enables smaller inductors/caps but increases EMI sensitivity and reduces efficiency at light loads | Choose for space-constrained designs needing ultra-compact passives, accepting trade-offs in EMI filtering and light-load quiescent current |
Compared with LM2596S-12 and MP1584EN-LF-Z, AP1501-12K5G-13 offers integrated shutdown, internal compensation, and guaranteed 12V output without external resistors - reducing design risk and component count for industrial 12V point-of-load applications.
Availability
AP1501-12K5G-13 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, automotive body control modules, point-of-load converters, and legacy equipment retrofits requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability support.
Supply support for AP1501-12K5G-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 ICs, specializing in power management, signal integrity, and protection devices for industrial, computing, and automotive markets.
The AP1501 product line delivers cost-optimized, fully integrated buck converters targeting high-reliability, medium-power DC/DC applications where simplicity, thermal robustness, and fixed-output stability are prioritized over programmability or ultra-high frequency.
FAQ
What is the recommended input capacitor for AP1501-12K5G-13?
A minimum 100µF low-ESR electrolytic capacitor plus a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor placed directly at the VIN pin is recommended. This combination suppresses high-frequency switching noise and provides instantaneous current during switch transitions, preventing input voltage droop that could trigger undervoltage lockout or instability.
Can AP1501-12K5G-13 operate with input voltage below 15V?
No - the AP1501-12K5G-13 is specified for 15V to 40V input only. Attempting operation below 15V violates the minimum operating condition for the 12V output version and may result in insufficient gate drive, unstable regulation, or failure to start. For lower-input applications, consider the AP1501-5V or adjustable versions.
Is the FB pin required to be connected in the fixed 12V version?
No - the FB pin is internally connected to the 12V output divider in the fixed version and must be left unconnected (open) or tied to GND per datasheet guidance. Connecting external resistors to FB will disrupt regulation and cause incorrect output voltage or instability.
How does thermal performance differ between TO263-5 and TO220-5 packages?
The TO263-5 achieves θJA = 37°C/W with 3 in² copper, while TO220-5 achieves θJA = 31°C/W but requires an external heatsink for 3A operation. TO263-5 relies on PCB copper as heatsink; TO220-5 transfers heat through its metal tab to an attached heatsink - making TO220-5 preferable in forced-air or high-ambient environments where PCB copper area is limited.
AP1501-12K5G-13 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-263-6, D2PAK (5 Leads + Tab), TO-263BA
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 4.5V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 40V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 12V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Current - Output:
- 3A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 150kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- -20°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-263-5
AP1501-12K5G-13 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AP1501-12K5G-13 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AP1501-12K5G-13 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 AP1501-12K5G-13 reliable?
The price and inventory of AP1501-12K5G-13 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AP1501-12K5G-13 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AP1501-12K5G-13?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AP1501-12K5G-13 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AP1501-12K5G-13?
AP1501-12K5G-13 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AP1501-12K5G-13 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 AP1501-12K5G-13?
For technical support, including AP1501-12K5G-13 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AP1501-12K5G-13 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AP1501-12K5G-13 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AP1501-12K5G-13 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 AP1501-12K5G-13 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AP1501-12K5G-13?
All AP1501-12K5G-13 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AP1501-12K5G-13, 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 AP1501-12K5G-13 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AP1501-12K5G-13:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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