Diodes Incorporated AP1512A-T5L-U
- Part No.:
- AP1512A-T5L-U
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Package:
- TO-220-5
- Datasheet:
-
AP1512A-T5L-U.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ 3A TO220-5
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,878
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
AP1512A-T5L-U from Diodes Incorporated is a monolithic 50 kHz non-synchronous PWM buck DC/DC converter with integrated 3 A switch, fixed 5 V output, TO263-5L package, and logic-level ON/OFF shutdown control-designed for high-efficiency step-down regulation in industrial power supplies and on-card converters.
For engineers reviewing the AP1512A-T5L-U datasheet, AP1512A-T5L-U pinout, AP1512A-T5L-U application, or AP1512A-T5L-U equivalent, key selection factors include its 3 A output capability, ±4% output voltage tolerance at 5 V, thermal shutdown protection, 4.5–60 V input range, and compatibility with standard TO263 PCB thermal layout practices.
Technical Context
The AP1512A-T5L-U implements voltage-mode PWM control with internal 1.235 V reference and frequency-compensated error amplifier, enabling stable regulation without external compensation components. Its 50 kHz ±15% oscillator sets switching period and directly determines filter inductor/capacitor sizing.
It integrates a 3 A N-channel MOSFET switch, thermal shutdown (trip at ~150 °C), cycle-by-cycle current limiting (typ. 4 A), and logic-compatible shutdown input (VIL ≤ 0.6 V, VIH ≥ 2.0 V) that reduces quiescent current to 350 µA in standby mode.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | Fixed 5.0 V ±4% across 0.2–3 A load and 10–60 V input-enables direct replacement of linear regulators without feedback resistor network. |
| Switching Frequency | 50 kHz ±15%-permits use of low-cost, high-inductance chokes (e.g., 47 µH) and reduces EMI compared to higher-frequency alternatives. |
| Max Output Current | 3 A continuous-supports higher-power loads than 2 A variants (e.g., AP1512) without external boost transistors. |
| Input Voltage Range | 4.5 V to 60 V-allows operation from 12 V, 24 V, and 48 V industrial rails, including automotive battery transient conditions. |
| Thermal Protection | Integrated junction thermal shutdown-prevents device damage during overload or poor heatsinking; auto-recovery on cooldown. |
| Shutdown Quiescent Current | 350 µA at VSD = 5 V and VIN = 60 V-enables low-power system sleep modes without auxiliary LDOs. |
| Efficiency | 80% at VIN = 30 V, VOUT = 5 V, IOUT = 3 A-reduces heat generation vs. linear solutions while maintaining compact footprint. |
Pinout & Package
AP1512A-T5L-U uses the TO263-5L surface-mount package with exposed metal tab (GND-connected) for thermal conduction to PCB copper. Recommended pad layout follows Diodes Inc. AP02001 guidelines; minimum 0.4 in² copper area required, 2+ in² preferred for full 3 A operation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VIN | Positive input supply rail | Accepts 4.5–60 V; requires local 1 µF ceramic bypass capacitor to suppress switching transients and supply peak currents. |
| OUTPUT | Internal power switch drain | Drives external catch diode and inductor; trace must be short and wide to minimize ringing and EMI coupling. |
| GND | Power and signal ground reference | Common return for VIN, OUTPUT, FB, SD; connects to exposed tab-must be soldered to large PCB copper pour for thermal management. |
| FB | Feedback input for output voltage sensing | Not used in fixed 5 V version (internally tied to reference); left unconnected per datasheet for AP1512A-50. |
| SD | Logic-level shutdown control | Pull ≤0.6 V to enable regulator; pull ≥2.0 V to enter 350 µA standby-compatible with MCU GPIO without level shifting. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated 3 A power switch | Eliminates need for external MOSFET and gate driver-reduces BOM count, board space, and layout complexity in 5 V/3 A buck designs. |
| Internal frequency compensation | Enables stable loop response with only two external components (inductor + output capacitor)-no compensation network design required. |
| Thermal shutdown + current limit | Hardware-level protection against overtemperature (>150 °C) and overcurrent (>4 A peak)-prevents catastrophic failure under fault conditions. |
| Logic-compatible shutdown | Direct interface with 3.3 V or 5 V microcontrollers-no external pull-up or level-shifting needed for ON/OFF sequencing. |
| Lead-free / RoHS-compliant | Meets EU Directive 2002/95/EC with exempted lead in die attach; suitable for industrial and commercial applications requiring environmental compliance. |
Applications
| Industrial Power Supply | On-Board 5 V Rail Generation |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Generating stable 5 V for PLC I/O modules powered from 24 V DC bus with ambient temperatures up to 70 °C. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary buck regulator delivering regulated 5 V/3 A with built-in thermal protection and wide-input tolerance. Use Value: Replaces discrete 2 A controllers + external FET, reducing component count by ≥4 and improving thermal margin via TO263 copper conduction. |
Use Scenario: Providing main 5 V supply to microcontroller, CAN transceiver, and sensor interface on a motor drive control board. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-output DC/DC converter operating at 50 kHz to minimize conducted EMI near sensitive analog circuits. Use Value: Achieves 80% efficiency at full 3 A load, cutting heat rise vs. linear regulator and eliminating need for heatsink in confined enclosure. |
| Automotive Body Control Module | Legacy Equipment Retrofit |
|
Use Scenario: Powering infotainment peripherals from 12 V battery with cold-crank (4.5 V) and load-dump (60 V) resilience. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Input-tolerant buck regulator with shutdown control synchronized to vehicle ignition state. Use Value: Maintains regulation across full automotive voltage range without external TVS or pre-regulator-reducing system cost and footprint. |
Use Scenario: Upgrading aging 7805-based power supplies in test equipment to improve efficiency and reliability. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Drop-in compatible 5 V buck solution using existing TO263 footprint and minimal external parts. Use Value: Delivers 3× the current of legacy linear regulators while reducing board temperature rise by >30 °C at full load. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-output buck regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM2596SX-5.0/NOPB | 3 A, 150 kHz, adjustable/fixed versions; requires external compensation; no integrated thermal shutdown. | Higher switching frequency enables smaller inductors but increases EMI filtering burden; lacks auto-recovery thermal protection. | Select when higher frequency and lower output ripple are prioritized over thermal robustness and layout simplicity. |
| MP1584EN-LF-Z | 3 A, 1.5 MHz, adjustable-only; requires external feedback resistors; includes soft-start and better light-load efficiency. | Not pin-compatible; needs redesign of feedback network and compensation; superior for battery-powered systems with variable load. | Select when 1.5 MHz operation and programmable output are required, accepting added design effort and BOM cost. |
Compared with LM2596SX-5.0/NOPB and MP1584EN-LF-Z, AP1512A-T5L-U offers simpler implementation (no compensation design), stronger thermal safety (auto-recovery shutdown), and proven 50 kHz noise profile-but trades off switching frequency flexibility and light-load optimization.
Availability
AP1512A-T5L-U is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, on-board 5 V rail generation, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for AP1512A-T5L-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 devices for industrial, computing, and consumer markets.
The AP1512/A series belongs to Diodes' monolithic DC/DC converter product line, engineered for cost-sensitive, high-reliability buck regulation in space-constrained applications where integration, thermal robustness, and input voltage resilience are critical.
FAQ
Is AP1512A-T5L-U pin-compatible with AP1512-T5L-U?
Yes-both share identical TO263-5L pinout (VIN, OUTPUT, GND, FB, SD) and mechanical footprint. However, AP1512A delivers 3 A versus 2 A, with higher current limit (4 A typ.) and slightly lower efficiency at full load (80% vs. 83%). Thermal design must accommodate the increased power dissipation.
Can AP1512A-T5L-U be used in adjustable-output configurations?
No-AP1512A-T5L-U is factory-trimmed for fixed 5.0 V output. The "-50" suffix denotes internal feedback divider; FB pin is not functional and must remain unconnected. For adjustable versions, select AP1512A-ADJ (e.g., AP1512A-ADJ-T5L-U) with external resistor divider.
What is the recommended minimum PCB copper area for thermal performance?
Diodes specifies ≥0.4 in² (≈258 mm²) of 2 oz copper connected to the TO263 tab for basic operation. For continuous 3 A load at elevated ambient temperatures, ≥2 in² is strongly recommended to maintain junction temperature below 125 °C-verified via thermal simulation or IR measurement per AP02001 layout guidelines.
Does AP1512A-T5L-U require an external catch diode?
Yes-an external Schottky diode (e.g., B360B) is mandatory between OUTPUT and VOUT to provide freewheeling path during switch-off. The IC contains no synchronous rectifier; omitting the diode causes immediate failure due to inductive kickback and lack of current path.
AP1512A-T5L-U Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-220-5
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 4.5V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 60V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 1.23V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 37V
- Current - Output:
- 3A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 50kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- -20°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-220-5
AP1512A-T5L-U FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AP1512A-T5L-U through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AP1512A-T5L-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 AP1512A-T5L-U reliable?
The price and inventory of AP1512A-T5L-U are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AP1512A-T5L-U is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AP1512A-T5L-U?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AP1512A-T5L-U transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AP1512A-T5L-U?
AP1512A-T5L-U orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AP1512A-T5L-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 AP1512A-T5L-U?
For technical support, including AP1512A-T5L-U datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AP1512A-T5L-U requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AP1512A-T5L-U is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AP1512A-T5L-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 AP1512A-T5L-U meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AP1512A-T5L-U?
All AP1512A-T5L-U units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AP1512A-T5L-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 AP1512A-T5L-U part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AP1512A-T5L-U:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
AP1512A-T5L-U Tags

-
TPS562201DDCR
Texas Instruments

-
MC34063ABD-TR
STMicroelectronics

-
TPS561201DDCR
Texas Instruments

-
MC33063ADR
Texas Instruments

-
MC34063ADR
Texas Instruments
-
TPS560200DBVR
Texas Instruments

-
AP3012KTR-G1
Diodes Incorporated

-
TLV61048DBVR
Texas Instruments

-
AZ34063UMTR-G1
Diodes Incorporated

-
TPS562200DDCR
Texas Instruments

-
AP62300TWU-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
MC34063EBD-TR
STMicroelectronics
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

