Diodes Incorporated AP1506-33T5L-U
- Part No.:
- AP1506-33T5L-U
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Package:
- TO-220-5
- Datasheet:
-
AP1506-33T5L-U.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK 3.3V 3A TO220-5
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,401
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Product details
Overview
AP1506-33T5L-U from Diodes Incorporated is a monolithic 150 kHz, 3A non-synchronous PWM buck DC/DC converter with fixed 3.3V output, integrated power switch, thermal shutdown, and current-limit protection. It operates from 4.5V to 22V input, delivers ±4% output voltage tolerance at 3.3V/3A, and uses TO220-5 package for high-power board-mounted regulation in industrial power supplies.
For engineers reviewing the AP1506-33T5L-U datasheet, AP1506-33T5L-U pinout, AP1506-33T5L-U application, or AP1506-33T5L-U equivalent, key selection considerations include its fixed 3.3V output, 150kHz switching frequency, ON/OFF shutdown control, internal compensation, and thermal/current protection behavior under load transients and overtemperature conditions.
Technical Context
The AP1506-33T5L-U implements voltage-mode PWM control with a built-in 1.23V reference and internal error amplifier, eliminating external compensation components. Its 150kHz oscillator sets the switching frequency with ±15% tolerance, enabling compact LC filter design using standard 33µH inductors and low-ESR electrolytic capacitors.
Feedback is taken directly from the output via the FB pin (pin 4), referenced to the internal 1.23V bandgap; for the fixed 3.3V version, this ratio is hardwired internally. Shutdown is logic-controlled via the SD pin (pin 5), with 0.6V low-threshold turn-on and 2.0V high-threshold turn-off, supporting direct microcontroller GPIO interfacing without level-shifting.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | Fixed 3.3V ±4% (3.168–3.432V) across full load and temperature range |
| Max Output Current | 3A continuous; current limit triggers at 3.6–5.5A peak, reducing frequency to 10–50kHz |
| Switching Frequency | 150kHz ±15% (127–173kHz); enables use of smaller passive components than 50–100kHz regulators |
| Input Voltage Range | 4.5V to 22V; supports wide-input industrial and automotive battery-supplied systems |
| Efficiency | 75% typical at VIN=12V, VOUT=3.3V, IOUT=3A; optimized for mid-power step-down with minimal external parts |
| Thermal Protection | Internal thermal shutdown activates above +125°C junction temperature; automatic recovery on cooldown |
| Quiescent Current | 5–10mA active; standby current drops to 70–200µA when SD pin is high |
Pinout & Package
AP1506-33T5L-U is housed in a TO220-5 package with exposed metal tab connected to GND for thermal conduction. The 5-pin through-hole layout supports high-current PCB mounting with heatsink compatibility.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (VIN) | Input Supply | Accepts 4.5–22V DC; requires local 100µF+ low-ESR input capacitor to handle pulsed switching current |
| 2 (Output) | Switch Node | Drives external Schottky catch diode and LC filter; voltage swings between ~0V and (VIN – 1.6V) during operation |
| 3 (GND) | Power Ground | Common return for input, output, feedback, and shutdown paths; tied to metal tab for thermal path |
| 4 (FB) | Feedback Input | Internally biased to 1.23V reference; unused in fixed 3.3V version but must remain unconnected or bypassed |
| 5 (SD) | Shutdown Control | Logic-level enable: ≤0.6V = ON, ≥2.0V = OFF; draws <1µA in both states |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated Power Switch | On-die 3A DMOS transistor eliminates need for external MOSFET, reducing BOM count and layout complexity |
| Internal Compensation | Single-pole compensation network embedded in IC; no external RC network required for stable loop response |
| Logic-Controlled Standby | SD pin accepts standard 3.3V/5V logic signals; reduces total supply current to <200µA in shutdown mode |
| Robust Protection Suite | Combined thermal shutdown and cycle-by-cycle current limiting prevent damage during overload, short-circuit, or ambient overheating |
| Lead-Free & Green Compliance | Meets RoHS 3 (2015/863/EU), halogen-free (<900ppm Br/Cl, <1000ppm Sb), and antimony-free requirements |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Power Rails | Automotive Body Control Modules |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Providing clean, regulated 3.3V power to microcontrollers and CAN transceivers in programmable logic controllers operating from 12–24V DC bus. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary step-down regulator converting unregulated 12–24V input to stable 3.3V for digital logic and interface ICs. Use Value: Delivers 3A at 75% efficiency with internal current limiting and thermal shutdown, ensuring reliable operation during brownouts and transient overloads. | Use Scenario: Generating 3.3V supply for infotainment subsystems and sensor hubs in 12V automotive platforms with cold-crank tolerance down to 4.5V. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-output buck converter powering low-voltage MCU peripherals and communication interfaces in body electronics. Use Value: Maintains ±4% output accuracy across -20°C to +85°C ambient and withstands 22V load-dump transients due to robust input rating and internal protection. |
| Point-of-Load Telecom Supplies | Embedded Networking Equipment |
Use Scenario: Local 3.3V conversion for FPGA I/O banks and Ethernet PHYs in telecom line cards fed from centralized 12V or 24V backplane rails. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-current point-of-load regulator minimizing voltage drop and noise coupling in dense PCB layouts. Use Value: TO220-5 package allows direct heatsinking; 150kHz switching avoids EMI interference with sensitive RF sections while enabling compact 33µH inductor use. | Use Scenario: Powering ARM-based SoCs and DDR memory interfaces in enterprise switches and routers requiring stable 3.3V at up to 3A. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main system regulator delivering tightly regulated 3.3V with fast transient response to dynamic CPU load changes. Use Value: Internal compensation ensures stability with standard ceramic or polymer output capacitors; shutdown pin enables coordinated power sequencing with host processor. |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM2576-3.3 | 5-pin TO220, 52kHz switching, external compensation, 3A max, ±2% output tolerance | Lower frequency requires larger inductor/capacitor; less efficient at light loads due to higher quiescent current | Preferred where EMI constraints favor sub-100kHz operation and legacy design reuse is prioritized |
| MP1584EN-LF-Z | 8-pin SOIC-EP, 1.5MHz switching, adjustable/fixed versions, 3A, ±1.5% output tolerance | Higher frequency enables ultra-compact layout but demands careful PCB layout for EMI control and thermal management | Chosen for space-constrained designs needing higher efficiency above 1A and better light-load performance |
Compared with LM2576-3.3 and MP1584EN-LF-Z, AP1506-33T5L-U offers a balanced trade-off: mid-frequency (150kHz) operation reduces passive size versus 52kHz parts while avoiding the layout sensitivity of 1.5MHz devices, and its TO220-5 package provides straightforward thermal handling for sustained 3A loads without complex thermal vias or copper pours.
Availability
AP1506-33T5L-U is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC power rails, automotive body control modules, and point-of-load telecom supplies requiring stable component supply, long-term manufacturability, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for AP1506-33T5L-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 power management, signal integrity, and protection solutions for industrial, computing, and automotive markets.
The AP1506 series belongs to Diodes' high-current DC/DC converter product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability step-down applications where simplicity, thermal robustness, and minimal external component count are critical.
FAQ
What is the recommended input capacitor for AP1506-33T5L-U?
A minimum 100µF low-ESR electrolytic or polymer capacitor is required at the VIN pin, placed within 5mm of the device. For improved ripple suppression and transient response, pair it with a 100nF ceramic capacitor in parallel. This combination handles the high di/dt switching current and prevents input voltage sag during load steps.
Can the FB pin be used to adjust the output voltage of AP1506-33T5L-U?
No. The AP1506-33T5L-U is a fixed 3.3V output variant; its feedback divider is internal and not accessible. The FB pin (pin 4) is internally connected and must be left unconnected or grounded via a 100nF capacitor to reduce noise-adding external resistors will not alter the output voltage and may destabilize regulation.
What thermal derating applies when using AP1506-33T5L-U without a heatsink?
In still air with a 2 oz. copper area ≥2 in² connected to the TO220-5 tab, AP1506-33T5L-U sustains 3A up to +65°C ambient. Above that, output current must be linearly reduced to 2.5A at +85°C. Without adequate copper area or airflow, thermal shutdown will activate well below rated current-always verify junction temperature using θJA = 31°C/W and measured board temperature.
Which Schottky diode is recommended for use with AP1506-33T5L-U?
For 3A operation, Diodes Incorporated specifies B340LA or B340LB (VF ≈ 0.45V). These 40V, 3A Schottky diodes minimize conduction loss and ensure sufficient reverse voltage margin against VIN transients. Avoid general-purpose rectifiers-their higher VF and slower recovery degrade efficiency and cause excessive heating in the catch diode position.
AP1506-33T5L-U Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-220-5
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 4.5V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 22V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 3.3V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Current - Output:
- 3A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 150kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- -20°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-220-5
AP1506-33T5L-U FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AP1506-33T5L-U through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AP1506-33T5L-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 AP1506-33T5L-U reliable?
The price and inventory of AP1506-33T5L-U are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AP1506-33T5L-U is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AP1506-33T5L-U?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AP1506-33T5L-U transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AP1506-33T5L-U?
AP1506-33T5L-U orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AP1506-33T5L-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 AP1506-33T5L-U?
For technical support, including AP1506-33T5L-U datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AP1506-33T5L-U requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AP1506-33T5L-U is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AP1506-33T5L-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 AP1506-33T5L-U meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AP1506-33T5L-U?
All AP1506-33T5L-U units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AP1506-33T5L-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 AP1506-33T5L-U part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AP1506-33T5L-U:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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