Texas Instruments BQ71525DCKRG4

Overview

BQ71525DCKRG4 from Texas Instruments is a 2.5-V fixed-output, 50-mA ultra-low-quiescent-current low-dropout (LDO) linear regulator in SC70-5 (DCK) package. It features 24-V maximum input voltage, 415-mV typical dropout at 50 mA, 3.2-µA quiescent current, and stability with ≥0.47-µF output capacitance. It powers MSP430 microcontrollers in battery-constrained solar and portable systems.

For engineers reviewing the BQ71525DCKRG4 datasheet, BQ71525DCKRG4 pinout, BQ71525DCKRG4 application, or BQ71525DCKRG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include input voltage range (2.5 V to 24 V), output accuracy (±4%), thermal performance in SC70 package, and compatibility with ultra-low-power microcontroller supply rails requiring tight VIN–VOUT margin.

Technical Context

The BQ71525DCKRG4 uses a PMOS pass element enabling low dropout voltage directly proportional to load current-415 mV at 50 mA-and eliminates base-drive current loss inherent in PNP-based LDOs. Its leakage null control circuit maintains stable 3.2-µA quiescent current across 0–50 mA load and up to 24 V input.

Internal bandgap reference (1.205 V) and feedback architecture support ±4% output voltage accuracy over –40°C to +125°C junction temperature, while the adjustable version (TPS71501) enables 1.2 V to 15 V output via external resistor divider. The device requires no minimum load and remains stable with ceramic, tantalum, or polymer capacitors ≥0.47 µF.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SC70-5 (DCK) package: 5-pin, 2.0 mm × 2.1 mm × 0.9 mm body, 0.65-mm lead pitch, moisture sensitivity level 1 (260°C reflow compatible).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO regulator applications.

Compared with TPS71525DCKRG4, BQ71525DCKRG4 offers identical electrical performance with enhanced process and test screening, while TPS71523DCKRG4 trades 200-mV lower output for reduced dropout-related power loss - enabling longer runtime in thermally limited battery systems.

Availability

BQ71525DCKRG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for solar energy harvesting, ultra-low-power microcontroller supply, and industrial sensor node applications requiring stable component supply across multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for BQ71525DCKRG4 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 and embedded processing solutions, with leadership in low-power design, precision analog, and industrial-grade reliability.

The BQ71525DCKRG4 belongs to TI's BQ715xx LDO family, engineered specifically for ultra-low-power microcontroller supply in energy-constrained environments such as solar-powered sensors and battery-operated IoT endpoints.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for BQ71525DCKRG4?

The BQ71525DCKRG4 supports a maximum input voltage of 24 V, as specified in its absolute maximum ratings. This allows direct connection to unregulated sources like solar panels or industrial 24-V rails without external protection circuitry. Operation above this voltage risks permanent damage, and the device is not rated for transient surges beyond 24 V.

Does BQ71525DCKRG4 require an external output capacitor, and what value is recommended?

Yes, BQ71525DCKRG4 requires an output capacitor ≥0.47 µF for internal loop stability. Ceramic, tantalum, or polymer capacitors meeting this minimum value are acceptable - no ESR specification is needed. A 1-µF X7R ceramic capacitor placed adjacent to the OUT pin is commonly used to optimize transient response and noise filtering.

Is BQ71525DCKRG4 pin-compatible with other TPS715xx variants in SC70-5 package?

Yes, BQ71525DCKRG4 shares identical SC70-5 (DCK) pinout and footprint with all TPS715xx fixed-output variants including TPS71519DCKRG4, TPS71523DCKRG4, and TPS71533DCKRG4. Pin 1 (FB/NC), Pin 2 (GND), Pin 3 (NC), Pin 4 (IN), and Pin 5 (OUT) are functionally and physically aligned across the family.

What is the typical dropout voltage of BQ71525DCKRG4 at 50 mA load current?

The typical dropout voltage of BQ71525DCKRG4 is 415 mV at 50 mA load current and +25°C junction temperature. This value increases linearly with load due to the PMOS pass element's R_DS(on) behavior. At 10 mA, dropout drops to approximately 83 mV, enabling extended operation as input voltage declines during battery discharge.

Can BQ71525DCKRG4 be used to power MSP430 microcontrollers, and which specific models does it support?

Yes, BQ71525DCKRG4 is explicitly designed to power MSP430 families. Its 2.5-V output provides sufficient margin above the 2.2-V minimum required for FLASH programming on MSP430F2xx devices and meets core voltage requirements for MSP430G2xx, MSP430FR5xx, and MSP430AFE2xx series in low-power active and LPM3/LPM4 sleep modes.