Diodes Incorporated AP7368D-15RS4-7

Overview

AP7368D-15RS4-7 from Diodes Incorporated is a 500mA/1A low-noise RF LDO regulator in X1-DFN1612-8 (Type B) package, delivering ±1% output voltage accuracy at 1.5V, 80dB PSRR at 1kHz, and 16µV_rms output noise (10Hz–100kHz). It features dual current-limit selection (LCON pin), foldback short-circuit protection (60mA), and is optimized for RF supply rails in portable wireless devices.

For engineers reviewing the AP7368D-15RS4-7 datasheet, AP7368D-15RS4-7 pinout, AP7368D-15RS4-7 application, or AP7368D-15RS4-7 equivalent, key selection criteria include fixed 1.5V output, LCON-configurable current limit, thermal shutdown at +150°C, and compatibility with 1µF ceramic input/output capacitors in space-constrained layouts.

Technical Context

The AP7368D-15RS4-7 integrates a CMOS-based error amplifier, precision voltage reference, and current-limit control circuitry to maintain stable 1.5V output across 1.7V–5.5V input range. Its architecture supports fast load transient response and enables independent enable (EN) and current-limit configuration (LCON) pins for system-level power sequencing.

It implements foldback short-circuit protection (60mA at LCON="L") and thermal shutdown (+150°C with +20°C hysteresis), while achieving 0.066V typical dropout at 3.0V output/500mA - scaled per V_OUT and I_OUT per datasheet curves. The exposed pad (EP) serves as thermal relief, not functional ground.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

X1-DFN1612-8 (Type B) package: 1.6mm × 1.2mm footprint, 0.4mm pitch, 0.39mm nominal height, exposed thermal pad (EP) requiring PCB copper area connection to GND for optimal thermal dissipation (θ_JA = 55.5°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-noise LDO applications.

Compared with AP7361D-15SAG-7 and XC6210B152MR-G, the AP7368D-15RS4-7 uniquely combines 1A programmable current limit, 16µV_rms noise, and 80dB PSRR in a 1.6mm×1.2mm DFN - enabling single-LDO support for demanding RF SoCs without derating or parallel devices.

Availability

AP7368D-15RS4-7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone RF front-end modules, wireless camera power systems, and Bluetooth LE adapter designs requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for AP7368D-15RS4-7 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 semiconductor company specializing in discrete, analog, and mixed-signal solutions for power management, signal integrity, and connectivity applications.

The AP7368 series targets RF and portable communication equipment, designed to deliver ultra-low-noise, high-PSRR regulation in minimal footprints for next-generation wireless devices.

FAQ

What is the recommended input and output capacitor configuration for AP7368D-15RS4-7?

A minimum 1µF ceramic capacitor is required on both input (CIN) and output (COUT) pins, placed as close as possible to the device. Low-ESR X5R/X7R types are recommended. For large load transients, add bulk capacitance in parallel. Layout must minimize trace inductance between VIN–GND and VOUT–GND paths to ensure stability and noise suppression.

How does the LCON pin affect short-circuit protection behavior?

When LCON is pulled low, short-circuit current is limited to 60mA; when high, it increases to 110mA. This foldback behavior protects the device during output faults while maintaining safe junction temperature. The LCON state must be set before fault occurrence - it does not dynamically adjust during a short.

Can AP7368D-15RS4-7 be used with a 1.2V input supply?

No. The absolute minimum input voltage is 1.7V per datasheet specifications. At 1.5V output, the minimum required input is 1.7V - resulting in only 0.2V headroom, which is insufficient for stable regulation. Input must be ≥1.7V to guarantee ±1% output accuracy and PSRR performance.

Is the exposed pad (EP) electrically connected to GND internally?

No. The EP is a thermal pad only, with no internal electrical connection. It must be soldered to a PCB copper area tied to GND for heat dissipation, but must not serve as the sole GND return path. Pin 5 (GND) remains the mandatory signal and power ground connection.