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STMicroelectronics L296P
- Part No.:
- L296P
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Package:
- Multiwatt-15 (Vertical, Bent and Staggered Leads)
- Datasheet:
-
L296P.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK ADJ 4A 15MULTIWATT
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,522
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Product details
Overview
L296P from STMicroelectronics is a high-current monolithic stepdown switching regulator delivering 4 A output current with adjustable output voltage from 5.1 V to 40 V, ±2 % on-chip reference accuracy, up to 200 kHz switching frequency, and external programmable current limiting-used in industrial power supplies, programmable lab supplies, and distributed DC-DC conversion systems.
For engineers reviewing the L296P datasheet, L296P pinout, L296P application, or L296P equivalent, this device supports remote inhibit, soft start, open-collector reset, crowbar SCR drive, thermal shutdown, and synchronous PWM operation in multi-regulator configurations.
Technical Context
The L296P integrates a precision 5.1 V zener-zap-trimmed reference (±2 %), error amplifier, sawtooth oscillator, PWM comparator, and high-current output stage in a single Multiwatt15 package. Its regulation loop uses external RC networks at pins 9 (compensation) and 11 (oscillator) to set gain stability and switching frequency.
It implements dual protection: current limiting via external resistor at pin 4 (L296P-specific), and thermal shutdown at ~140 °C junction temperature with hysteresis. The crowbar circuit monitors output or input voltage independently and drives an external SCR with up to 100 mA gate current when overvoltage exceeds nominal by 20 %.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Current | 4 A continuous-supports high-power industrial loads without external pass transistors. |
| Output Voltage Range | 5.1 V to 40 V-set via external feedback divider; 5.1 V achieved with direct pin 10 connection. |
| Switching Frequency | Up to 200 kHz-reduces size/cost of filter inductors and capacitors vs. lower-frequency regulators. |
| Reference Accuracy | ±2 % at 25 °C-enables tight output regulation without trimming components. |
| Current Limit Control | Externally programmable via resistor from pin 4 to ground-threshold adjustable from 2.5 A to 7 A (typ.) for precise overload protection. |
| Efficiency | Up to 90 %-minimizes thermal load and heatsink requirements in enclosed systems. |
| Reset Output | Open-collector, active-low-delays assertion until supply stabilizes, configurable with external capacitor at pin 13. |
Pinout & Package
Package: Multiwatt15 (vertical mounting, 15-lead plastic power package with integrated heatsink tab; Rth j-case = 3 °C/W).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Crowbar Input | Voltage sense node for optional SCR-based overvoltage protection; threshold ≈ 20 % above nominal output. |
| 2 | Output | Main regulated DC output terminal; carries full 4 A load current. |
| 3 | Supply Voltage | Unregulated input (up to 50 V); powers internal logic and output stage. |
| 4 | Current Limit | Resistor-to-ground sets current limit threshold-exclusive to L296P variant. |
| 5 | Soft Start | Capacitor-to-ground defines soft-start time constant and average short-circuit current. |
| 6 | Inhibit Input | TTL-compatible active-high disable; forces shutdown and resets soft-start state. |
| 7 | Sync Input | Allows synchronization of multiple L296Ps; eliminates beat frequencies in multi-rail systems. |
| 8 | Ground | Common reference for all analog and digital functions; low-impedance return path. |
| 9 | Frequency Compensation | RC network sets loop gain and phase margin for stable regulation across load/line variations. |
| 10 | Feedback Input | Regulation point for error amplifier; connected directly (5.1 V) or via divider (higher voltages). |
| 11 | Oscillator | RC network sets switching frequency; tied to pin 7 when internal oscillator used. |
| 12 | Reset Input | Threshold ≈ 5 V; enables reset generation from input or output voltage via external divider. |
| 13 | Reset Delay | Capacitor-to-ground sets delay before reset signal asserts after power-up. |
| 14 | Reset Output | Open-collector output; pulls low during undervoltage, high when supply is valid. |
| 15 | Crowbar Output | SCR gate driver; delivers up to 100 mA to trigger external overvoltage protection. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| External Programmable Current Limit | Enables precise, adjustable overcurrent protection (2.5–7 A range) using single resistor-unique to L296P. |
| Integrated Crowbar SCR Drive | Provides dedicated 100 mA gate drive output (pin 15) for fast overvoltage shutdown independent of main regulation loop. |
| Soft Start with Short-Circuit Current Control | Capacitor at pin 5 sets both startup ramp time and safe average short-circuit current-no additional components needed. |
| Synchronous PWM Operation | Pin 7 sync input allows master-slave configuration of multiple L296Ps to eliminate interference and simplify EMI filtering. |
| Thermal Shutdown with Hysteresis | Disables output at ~140 °C junction temperature and re-enables only after cooling to ~125 °C-prevents thermal oscillation. |
Applications
| Industrial Programmable Power Supply | Multi-Rail Distributed DC System |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Lab-grade bench supply delivering 5.1–24 V at up to 4 A with remote control and overvoltage protection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary stepdown regulator with programmable current limit, soft start, and crowbar SCR drive for safety-critical output clamping. Use Value: Eliminates need for external current-sense amplifiers and discrete crowbar circuitry-reducing BOM count and board area by >30 %. |
Use Scenario: Centralized 48 V input powering isolated 12 V, 15 V, and 24 V rails in telecom or test equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Synchronized buck regulator in multi-chip configuration; pin 7 sync ensures identical switching edges across rails. Use Value: Reduces conducted EMI and simplifies input filter design by eliminating beat frequencies between independent switching sources. |
| Remote-Sensed High-Accuracy Supply | Preregulator for Linear Post-Regulation |
|
Use Scenario: Precision 5.1 V supply for ADC references where load regulation must be ≤10 mV from 1 A to 4 A. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Feedback taken directly at load point (pin 10 connected remotely) to compensate for PCB trace IR drop. Use Value: Achieves <15 mV line regulation and <10 mV load regulation-meeting high-precision analog system requirements. |
Use Scenario: 12 V preregulator feeding low-noise linear regulators (e.g., LT3045) in sensitive instrumentation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Efficient first-stage converter reducing dropout voltage stress on downstream linear regulators. Use Value: Enables >90 % efficiency at 4 A while maintaining <20 mV ripple-cutting heat dissipation in final LDO by >60 %. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-current stepdown regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM2678-ADJ | 3 A max output, no external current limit programming, no crowbar output, fixed 260 kHz fSW | Lacks SCR drive and programmable OCP-requires external circuitry for overvoltage protection and precise current limiting. | Select when cost-sensitive designs prioritize simplicity over protection flexibility and higher current capability. |
| TPS54620 | 6 A output, integrated MOSFETs, 2.95–17 V input, no crowbar or reset outputs, requires external compensation | Not suitable for >17 V input or crowbar-based safety systems; lacks open-collector reset and voltage sense isolation. | Choose for compact, high-efficiency mid-voltage designs where input range and integration outweigh protection feature needs. |
Compared with LM2678-ADJ and TPS54620, the L296P uniquely combines 4 A capability, external OCP programming, crowbar SCR drive, and open-collector reset-making it optimal for industrial supplies requiring functional safety and wide input/output flexibility.
Availability
L296P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial programmable power supplies, telecom distributed DC systems, precision lab equipment, and safety-critical preregulators requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for L296P 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
STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing analog, power, microcontroller, and sensor solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The L296P belongs to ST's legacy high-current switching regulator product line, engineered specifically for rugged industrial power conversion where reliability, external protection integration, and wide operating ranges are critical.
FAQ
What is the key functional difference between L296 and L296P?
The L296P adds external programmable current limiting via pin 4, enabling precise adjustment of overcurrent threshold (2.5–7 A) using a single resistor. The standard L296 uses a fixed internal current limit (~4.5–7.5 A). All other features-including crowbar drive, reset output, soft start, and sync-remain identical between both variants.
Can the L296P operate with input voltages above 46 V?
No-the absolute maximum input voltage (pin 3) is 50 V, but electrical characteristics are only guaranteed up to 46 V per datasheet test conditions. Operating continuously above 46 V risks exceeding thermal limits and violating SOA boundaries, especially at high duty cycles or ambient temperatures above 70 °C.
How is crowbar protection implemented with the L296P?
The L296P monitors voltage at pin 1 (crowbar input) and triggers pin 15 (crowbar output) to sink up to 100 mA when sensed voltage exceeds nominal by ~20 %. An external SCR (e.g., C106MG) is connected between output and ground, with its gate driven by pin 15 through a current-limiting resistor-clamping overvoltage within microseconds.
Does the L296P require external compensation components?
Yes-pin 9 (frequency compensation) requires an external RC network to stabilize the regulation loop. Typical values are 15 kΩ and 33 nF, but exact values depend on output voltage, load, and inductor selection. Without proper compensation, the regulator exhibits oscillation or poor transient response, as confirmed in Figures 13 and 22 of the datasheet.
L296P Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- Multiwatt-15 (Vertical, Bent and Staggered Leads)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Function:
- Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Topology:
- Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 9V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 46V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 5.1V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 40V
- Current - Output:
- 4A
- Frequency - Switching:
- 100kHz
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 15-Multiwatt
L296P FAQ
1.How can I place an order for L296P through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for L296P 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 L296P reliable?
The price and inventory of L296P are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for L296P is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for L296P?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for L296P transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for L296P?
L296P orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your L296P 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 L296P?
For technical support, including L296P datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your L296P requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that L296P is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All L296P 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 L296P meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of L296P?
All L296P units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with L296P, 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 L296P part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for L296P:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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