Diodes Incorporated AP7384-70SA-7

Overview

AP7384-70SA-7 from Diodes Incorporated is a fixed-output 7.0V ultra-low dropout (ULDO) linear regulator IC designed for space-constrained portable and battery-powered systems. It delivers up to 50mA output current with 500mV dropout at full load, supports input voltages up to 40V, and features 2.5µA quiescent current and ±2% output voltage accuracy over temperature and line/load conditions.

For engineers reviewing the AP7384-70SA-7 datasheet, AP7384-70SA-7 pinout, AP7384-70SA-7 application, or AP7384-70SA-7 equivalent, key selection criteria include its wide 3.3–40V input range, SOT23-3 package footprint, thermal shutdown and short-circuit protection, compatibility with low-ESR ceramic capacitors, and suitability for USB-powered instrumentation and energy metering where low ground current and stable regulation under varying input are critical.

Technical Context

The AP7384-70SA-7 integrates a precision voltage reference, error amplifier, resistor network for fixed 7.0V output, current-limit circuitry, and chip-enable logic - all in a monolithic CMOS process. Its architecture enables stable regulation without external compensation when paired with ≥1.0µF input and ≥2.2µF output ceramic capacitors.

It operates across –40°C to +125°C junction temperature, includes thermal shutdown triggered at +160°C with +20°C hysteresis, and maintains ±100ppm/°C output voltage temperature coefficient. Line regulation is 0.05%/V and load regulation is 0.5% over 1–50mA output current.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AP7384-70SA-7 is housed in a RoHS-compliant SOT23-3 package (3.0mm × 1.4mm × 1.1mm), optimized for automated placement and minimal PCB area. Thermal resistance θ_JA is 166°C/W, requiring minimal copper pour for 50mA continuous operation at ambient ≤85°C.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar ultra-low dropout regulator applications.

Compared with MCP1703T-7002E/MB and TPS7A2070PDBVR, the AP7384-70SA-7 offers the lowest quiescent current (2.5µA) in a 3-pin SOT23 package while maintaining robust 40V input tolerance - making it optimal for ultra-low-power, space-constrained, wide-input industrial and metering applications where dropout and thermal behavior at 50mA are primary constraints.

Availability

AP7384-70SA-7 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart energy meters, portable diagnostic tools, laptop peripheral adapters, and industrial sensor nodes requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle availability, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for AP7384-70SA-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 manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and integrated circuits, specializing in high-performance, high-reliability components for power management, signal integrity, and protection applications.

The AP7384 series belongs to Diodes' precision linear regulator product line, engineered specifically for battery-powered and wide-input industrial systems demanding ultra-low I_Q, high accuracy, and robust protection - not general-purpose LDO use.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage the AP7384-70SA-7 can withstand continuously?

The AP7384-70SA-7 has an absolute maximum input voltage rating of 45V, but its recommended operating range is 3.3V to 40V. Continuous operation above 40V risks exceeding thermal limits and degrading long-term reliability, even if within absolute max ratings. Designers should maintain VIN ≤ 40V under all steady-state and transient conditions.

Does the AP7384-70SA-7 require an external bypass capacitor on the VOUT pin?

Yes - a minimum 2.2µF X5R or X7R ceramic capacitor must be placed directly at the VOUT pin, with low-inductance layout (<5mm trace length). This capacitor ensures stability, improves load transient response, and reduces output ripple. Omitting it or using lower capacitance may cause oscillation or excessive overshoot during load steps.

Can the AP7384-70SA-7 be used in automotive applications?

The AP7384-70SA-7 is not AEC-Q100 qualified and is not intended for automotive safety-critical systems. While it operates across –40°C to +125°C junction temperature, Diodes explicitly states that automotive-grade versions require separate qualification, PPAP capability, and IATF 16949 manufacturing - none of which apply to this standard commercial-grade part.

How does the thermal shutdown function behave during overload conditions?

Thermal shutdown activates at +160°C junction temperature and holds the output off until junction temperature falls by ≥20°C (hysteresis), then automatically recovers. During sustained overload, the device cycles on/off - limiting average power dissipation but not preventing repeated thermal stress. PCB thermal design must ensure θ_JA ≤ 166°C/W to avoid continuous cycling at 50mA load.