Diodes Incorporated AP2138N-3.6TRG1
- Part No.:
- AP2138N-3.6TRG1
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Package:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Datasheet:
-
AP2138N-3.6TRG1.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG LINEAR 3.6V 250MA SOT23-3
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,389
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Product details
Overview
AP2138N-3.6TRG1 from Diodes Incorporated is a fixed-output 3.6V CMOS low-dropout (LDO) voltage regulator in SOT-23-3 package, delivering 250mA output current with ±2% output voltage accuracy, ultra-low 1.0µA typical quiescent current, and 20mV typical dropout at 10mA load-designed for battery-powered portable electronics requiring long runtime and stable rail generation.
For engineers reviewing the AP2138N-3.6TRG1 datasheet, AP2138N-3.6TRG1 pinout, AP2138N-3.6TRG1 application, or AP2138N-3.6TRG1 equivalent, key selection criteria include quiescent current vs. load, dropout behavior at light-to-moderate loads, thermal resistance in SOT-23-3, and compatibility with 1µF ceramic input/output capacitors for stability.
Technical Context
The AP2138N-3.6TRG1 integrates a precision voltage reference, error amplifier, and resistor network to maintain regulated 3.6V output across input voltages from 2.5V to 6.0V. Its CMOS pass element enables ultra-low IQ and low temperature coefficient (±100ppm/°C).
No enable or discharge circuitry is present-this is the AP2138 variant, not the AP2139. It operates over –40°C to +85°C ambient, with thermal resistance θJA = 250°C/W and θJC = 81.9°C/W in SOT-23-3.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | 3.6V ±2% - ensures stable power rail for 3.3V–3.6V logic or analog circuits without external feedback. |
| Quiescent Current | 1.0µA typical - extends battery life in always-on or low-duty-cycle portable devices. |
| Max Output Current | 250mA - supports moderate-power peripherals like sensors, RF modules, or microcontroller subsystems. |
| Dropout Voltage | 20mV typical at 10mA - allows operation with minimal headroom (e.g., 3.62V input sustains 3.6V output). |
| Load Regulation | 25mV typical (1–100mA) - maintains tight output stability despite dynamic current draw changes. |
| Line Regulation | 6mV typical (4.6–6.0V input) - rejects input supply ripple and variation effectively. |
| Temp Coefficient | ±100ppm/°C - limits output drift to ±0.036V over –40°C to +85°C junction range. |
Pinout & Package
SOT-23-3 package: small-outline transistor outline with gull-wing leads, 1.3mm × 2.9mm footprint, rated for 250°C/W junction-to-ambient thermal resistance.
| Pin | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | GND | Ground reference for internal circuitry and output regulation; must be low-impedance connection to system ground plane. |
| 2 | VOUT | Regulated 3.6V output; requires ≥1µF ceramic capacitor to ground for stability and transient response. |
| 3 | VIN | Input supply (2.5–6.0V); must be filtered with ≥1µF ceramic capacitor to suppress noise and support LDO PSRR. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Ultra-low quiescent current | 1.0µA typical - enables multi-year operation on coin-cell batteries in IoT endpoints. |
| Fixed 3.6V output | ±2% accuracy over temp/load - eliminates need for external resistive divider and associated layout complexity. |
| Low dropout performance | 20mV at 10mA - supports direct regulation from single Li-ion cell (3.6–4.2V) down to 3.6V rail. |
| Stable with 1µF ceramic caps | ESR-tolerant design (0.01–100Ω) - reduces BOM count and PCB area vs. tantalum or electrolytic alternatives. |
| High PSRR at low frequency | 6mV line regulation - suppresses input ripple from switching converters or noisy DC sources. |
Applications
| Wearable Health Monitor | Wireless Sensor Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Continuous ECG/PPG sensing powered by CR2032 coin cell with 10-year target lifetime. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary 3.6V power rail regulator for analog front-end and BLE SoC during active and sleep modes. Use Value: 1.0µA IQ minimizes standby drain; ±2% VOUT accuracy ensures consistent ADC reference and sensor biasing. |
Use Scenario: Battery-operated environmental sensor transmitting data every 5 minutes via LoRaWAN. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Stable 3.6V supply for MCU, temperature/humidity sensor, and RF transceiver during burst transmission. Use Value: 250mA peak capability supports RF transmit surge; 20mV dropout preserves usable battery voltage down to 3.62V. |
| Industrial Handheld Scanner | Portable Audio Recorder |
Use Scenario: Ruggedized barcode scanner using single-cell Li-ion with frequent wake/sleep cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Main LDO supplying image sensor, laser driver, and decode processor. Use Value: Load regulation ≤25mV prevents image artifacts during motor activation; SOT-23-3 fits compact PCB layout. |
Use Scenario: High-fidelity voice recorder operating from AAA alkaline cells with >20hr runtime. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Clean 3.6V rail for audio codec, flash memory, and microSD interface. Use Value: ±100ppm/°C tempco avoids gain drift in microphone preamp; 1µF ceramic compatibility simplifies decoupling. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AP7354-36SA-7 | Successor LDO: same 3.6V output, 300mA rating, 0.6µA IQ, improved 15mV dropout at 10mA. | Pin-compatible SOT-23-3 drop-in replacement with enhanced efficiency and lower thermal resistance (θJA = 220°C/W). | Select for new designs requiring longer battery life or higher reliability; AP2138N-3.6TRG1 remains viable for legacy repair or cost-sensitive volume builds. |
| MCP1700-3602E/TO | Microchip 3.6V LDO: 250mA, 1.6µA IQ, 175mV dropout at 250mA, TO-92 package (larger, through-hole). | Requires PCB rework for through-hole mounting; lacks SOT-23-3 footprint compatibility and same low-IQ performance. | Only consider if SOT-23-3 assembly is unavailable or TO-92 mechanical retention is required; inferior quiescent current and dropout. |
Compared with AP7354-36SA-7, AP2138N-3.6TRG1 offers proven field reliability but higher IQ and dropout; versus MCP1700-3602E/TO, it delivers superior miniaturization and efficiency but requires surface-mount capability.
Availability
AP2138N-3.6TRG1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wearable health monitors, wireless sensor nodes, industrial handheld scanners, and portable audio recorders requiring stable component supply with long-term manufacturability assurance.
Supply support for AP2138N-3.6TRG1 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 consumer, industrial, and automotive markets.
The AP2138 series belongs to Diodes' ultra-low-IQ LDO product line, engineered specifically for battery-constrained portable electronics where extended operational lifetime and minimal voltage overhead are critical design requirements.
FAQ
What is the minimum input voltage required for AP2138N-3.6TRG1 to regulate 3.6V output?
The device requires VIN ≥ 2.5V per recommended operating conditions. At 10mA load, dropout is 20mV typical, so 3.62V input sustains regulation. Below 3.62V, output drops linearly with input; full regulation ceases below ~3.6V input at higher loads.
Can AP2138N-3.6TRG1 be used with ceramic output capacitors smaller than 1µF?
No. The datasheet mandates ≥1µF ceramic output capacitance with ESR between 0.01Ω and 100Ω for stability. Using smaller values risks oscillation or poor transient response, especially under load steps. 1µF is the absolute minimum-not a recommendation.
Does AP2138N-3.6TRG1 include thermal shutdown or current limiting?
Yes. It integrates a current limit circuit for overcurrent protection and thermal shutdown that activates at TJ ≈ +150°C. These functions are specified in Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables, ensuring safe operation under fault conditions without external components.
Is AP2138N-3.6TRG1 qualified for automotive applications?
No. While Diodes offers AEC-Q100-qualified variants in other LDO families, AP2138N-3.6TRG1 is not automotive-qualified. It is rated for industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) and intended for consumer and industrial portable equipment-not safety-critical automotive systems.
AP2138N-3.6TRG1 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Diodes Incorporated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Regulators:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 6V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 3.6V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Voltage Dropout (Max):
- 0.6V @ 250mA
- Current - Output:
- 250mA
- Current - Quiescent (Iq):
- 1.5 µA
- Current - Supply (Max):
- -
- PSRR:
- -
- Control Features:
- -
- Protection Features:
- Over Current
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- SOT-23-3
AP2138N-3.6TRG1 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for AP2138N-3.6TRG1 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for AP2138N-3.6TRG1 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 AP2138N-3.6TRG1 reliable?
The price and inventory of AP2138N-3.6TRG1 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for AP2138N-3.6TRG1 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for AP2138N-3.6TRG1?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for AP2138N-3.6TRG1 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for AP2138N-3.6TRG1?
AP2138N-3.6TRG1 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your AP2138N-3.6TRG1 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 AP2138N-3.6TRG1?
For technical support, including AP2138N-3.6TRG1 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your AP2138N-3.6TRG1 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that AP2138N-3.6TRG1 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All AP2138N-3.6TRG1 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 AP2138N-3.6TRG1 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of AP2138N-3.6TRG1?
All AP2138N-3.6TRG1 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with AP2138N-3.6TRG1, 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 AP2138N-3.6TRG1 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for AP2138N-3.6TRG1:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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