Texas Instruments BQ71525DCKR

Overview

BQ71525DCKR from Texas Instruments is a 25-V input, 2.5-V fixed-output, 50-mA ultra-low-quiescent-current (3.2 µA) low-dropout linear regulator in SC70-5 (DCK) package. It uses a PMOS pass element for 415-mV typical dropout at 50 mA and supports stable operation with any ≥0.47 µF output capacitor. Designed for battery-powered MSP430 microcontroller supply rails where minimal standby current and fast enable response are critical.

For engineers reviewing the BQ71525DCKR datasheet, BQ71525DCKR pinout, BQ71525DCKR application, or BQ71525DCKR equivalent, key selection criteria include its 2.5-V output accuracy (±4%), −40°C to +125°C junction temperature range, 24-V absolute max input, internal current limiting (~500 mA), and compatibility with ceramic/tantalum output capacitors down to 0.47 µF.

Technical Context

The BQ71525DCKR implements a PMOS-based LDO architecture replacing traditional PNP pass transistors-enabling dropout voltage directly proportional to load current and eliminating base-drive quiescent current. Its leakage-null control circuit activates only under high-VIN (>18 V), high-temperature (>100°C), and ultra-light-load (<5 µA) conditions to suppress pass-FET leakage effects.

It features a bandgap reference (1.205 V typ) and internal feedback network for fixed 2.5-V output. No external resistors are required. The device is enabled as soon as VIN exceeds minimum operating voltage (~3 V), making it suitable for direct integration with unregulated solar or battery sources powering MSP430 MCUs during cold-start conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SC70-5 (DCK) package: 5-pin, 2.0 mm × 2.1 mm × 0.9 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, moisture sensitivity level 1 (260°C reflow compatible). RoHS-compliant, green (Pb-free, no Sb/Br) finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-quiescent-current LDO regulator applications.

Compared with TPS71525DCKR and MCP1700T-2502E/MB, the BQ71525DCKR uniquely balances 24-V input tolerance, 50-mA output, and 3.2-µA IQ in a 5-pin SC70 - enabling direct solar/battery interface without pre-regulation while maintaining MSP430 timing and FLASH voltage compliance.

Availability

BQ71525DCKR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless sensor nodes, solar-powered telemetry, and ultra-low-power medical wearables requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for BQ71525DCKR 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company delivering analog, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and personal electronics markets.

The BQ71525DCKR belongs to TI's TPS715xx ultra-low-IQ LDO family, engineered specifically to power MSP430 microcontrollers and other ultra-low-power systems from unregulated or wide-range sources like solar cells and multi-cell batteries.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the BQ71525DCKR?

The BQ71525DCKR has an absolute maximum input voltage rating of 24 V, with recommended operating input range from 2.5 V to 24 V. Exceeding 24 V risks permanent damage. This rating enables direct connection to unconditioned solar panels or 6-cell alkaline/Li-ion battery stacks without external clamping or pre-regulation - a key design advantage for energy-harvesting and portable applications using the BQ71525DCKR.

Does the BQ71525DCKR require an external feedback resistor network?

No, the BQ71525DCKR is a fixed-output 2.5-V regulator with internal feedback. Pin 1 (FB/NC) is internally connected and requires no external components. This eliminates resistor matching errors, board space, and leakage paths - simplifying design and improving long-term stability. Unlike the adjustable TPS71501, the BQ71525DCKR delivers precise 2.5-V output without configuration, making it ideal for repeatable, high-volume MSP430 deployments.

What output capacitor value and type does the BQ71525DCKR require for stability?

The BQ71525DCKR is stable with any output capacitor ≥0.47 µF, including ceramic (X5R/X7R), tantalum, or aluminum electrolytic types. No ESR requirements or damping networks are needed. A 1-µF X7R ceramic capacitor is commonly used for optimal transient response and size. This "any-capacitor" stability reduces BOM complexity and mitigates supply-chain risk - a verified behavior confirmed across temperature and load for the BQ71525DCKR.

How does the BQ71525DCKR behave during reverse-voltage conditions?

When input voltage falls below output voltage (e.g., during power-down), the BQ71525DCKR's integrated PMOS pass transistor conducts reverse current from OUT to IN via its intrinsic body diode. This current is not internally limited and can exceed safe levels if sustained. For applications expecting prolonged reverse bias - such as hot-swap or battery-backup scenarios - an external series Schottky diode or ideal diode controller is required to protect the BQ71525DCKR and upstream circuitry.

Is the BQ71525DCKR pin-compatible with other TPS715xx variants in SC70-5 package?

Yes, all TPS715xx and BQ715xx devices in the DCK (SC70-5) package share identical pinout: Pin 1 = FB/NC, Pin 2 = GND, Pin 3 = NC, Pin 4 = IN, Pin 5 = OUT. This allows drop-in replacement across output voltages (e.g., BQ71519, BQ71533) without PCB revision - provided thermal and electrical constraints (e.g., dropout, PSRR, load current) are validated for the new voltage variant. The BQ71525DCKR fits seamlessly into existing layouts designed for TPS715xx SC70 footprints.