STMicroelectronics L7812ACV-DG
- Part No.:
- L7812ACV-DG
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Package:
- TO-220-3
- Datasheet:
-
L7812ACV-DG.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG LINEAR 12V 1.5A
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:525
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Product details
Overview
L7812ACV-DG from STMicroelectronics is a three-terminal positive fixed-voltage linear regulator delivering 12 V ±2% output at up to 1.5 A, featuring thermal overload protection, short-circuit protection, and safe operating area (SOA) protection. It operates across 0 to 125 °C junction temperature and requires minimum 5 mA load current for regulation - commonly used in industrial power supplies, embedded control modules, and local on-card voltage regulation.
For engineers reviewing the L7812ACV-DG datasheet, L7812ACV-DG pinout, L7812ACV-DG application, or L7812ACV-DG equivalent, key selection considerations include dropout voltage (2 V @ 1 A), line/load regulation (≤240 mV), supply voltage rejection (55 dB), thermal resistance (RthJA = 50 °C/W in TO-220), and guaranteed performance over extended temperature range.
Technical Context
This IC implements a monolithic series pass transistor with internal current limiting, thermal shutdown, and SOA protection - enabling robust operation without external protection circuitry. Its architecture relies on a bandgap reference and error amplifier to maintain stable 12 V output under varying input (14.5–30 V DC) and load (5 mA–1.5 A) conditions.
Designed for fixed-output use, it supports external adjustment via feedback networks but is optimized for simplicity in local regulation. Input-to-output differential must exceed 2 V for regulation; ripple rejection is frequency-dependent (55 dB at 120 Hz), and noise is specified at 75 µV/√Hz (10 Hz–100 kHz).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | 12 V ±2% (11.5–12.5 V over full temp/load range); ensures compatibility with 12 V logic and analog subsystems. |
| Max Output Current | 1.5 A continuous; supports mid-power loads like microcontroller boards, sensors, and relay drivers. |
| Dropout Voltage | 2 V @ 1 A, 25 °C; mandates ≥14 V input for reliable 12 V output under full load. |
| Line Regulation | ≤240 mV (VI = 14.5–30 V); limits output shift due to input rail variation in unregulated supplies. |
| Load Regulation | ≤240 mV (IO = 5 mA–1.5 A); maintains voltage stability across wide dynamic load changes. |
| Supply Rejection | 55 dB @ 120 Hz; attenuates low-frequency ripple from rectified AC or switching pre-regulators. |
| Thermal Range | 0 to 125 °C operating junction temperature; validated for industrial ambient environments. |
Pinout & Package
Supplied in TO-220 package (3-pin, vertical mounting, metal tab connected to GND), with standard pinout: Pin 1 = Input, Pin 2 = Ground, Pin 3 = Output. Thermal pad is electrically tied to Pin 2 for heatsink attachment and EMI reduction.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pin 1 (Input) | Unregulated DC supply input | Accepts 14.5–30 V DC; requires ≥2 V headroom above 12 V output for regulation. |
| Pin 2 (Ground) | Common reference and thermal path | Reference node for all internal circuitry; metal tab is electrically connected to this pin for heatsinking. |
| Pin 3 (Output) | Stabilized +12 V output | Delivers regulated 12 V to load; requires 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor (CO) close to pin for stability. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Internal current limiting | Self-protects against sustained overloads without external components; trip threshold ~2.2 A peak. |
| Thermal shutdown | Activates at ~165 °C junction temperature; resets automatically after cooling. |
| Safe operating area (SOA) protection | Prevents destruction during transient overloads or high VIN–VOUT differentials. |
| Low quiescent current | 8 mA typical; minimizes no-load power loss in battery-backed or standby systems. |
| Output noise performance | 75 µV/√Hz (10 Hz–100 kHz); suitable for analog signal chains requiring clean DC rails. |
Applications
| Industrial PLC Power Supply | Automotive Body Control Module |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Provides isolated 12 V rail for I/O expansion cards and sensor interfaces in programmable logic controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Local point-of-load regulator replacing centralized supply distribution to reduce noise coupling and voltage drop. Use Value: Eliminates need for remote sensing or external compensation; withstands 35 V transients per absolute max rating. | Use Scenario: Powers microcontroller, CAN transceiver, and window lift motor driver in vehicle body electronics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary 12 V post-regulator downstream of automotive alternator or DC-DC converter. Use Value: Thermal shutdown and SOA protection ensure reliability during load dump events and cold-crank low-VIN conditions. |
| Medical Diagnostic Equipment | Test & Measurement Instrumentation |
Use Scenario: Supplies analog front-end circuitry (ADCs, op-amps) in portable ultrasound or ECG units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise, stable bias source for precision signal conditioning stages. Use Value: 75 µV/√Hz noise and ≤240 mV load regulation preserve signal integrity in sub-mV-level measurements. | Use Scenario: Generates clean 12 V for FPGA configuration, DAC references, and analog calibration circuits. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary regulator ensuring ripple-free supply for timing-critical digital/analog hybrid subsystems. Use Value: 55 dB SVR at 120 Hz suppresses mains-borne interference; TO-220 package enables bolt-on heatsinking for continuous 1 A operation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-output linear regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM7812CDT/NOPB | ±4% output tolerance (vs. ±2% for L7812ACV-DG); higher RthJA (65 °C/W vs. 50 °C/W); no extended-temp grade. | Rated only for 0–70 °C operation; less suitable for industrial enclosures with elevated ambient. | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs precision and thermal margin requirements. |
| MC7812BD2TR4G | ±4% tolerance; lower quiescent current (6.5 mA typ.); same TO-220 package and pinout. | Lacks guaranteed performance over full industrial temperature range (–40 to +125 °C not supported). | Prefer for commercial-grade applications where ambient stays below 70 °C and tighter regulation is noncritical. |
Compared with LM7812CDT/NOPB and MC7812BD2TR4G, the L7812ACV-DG offers superior output accuracy (±2%), extended temperature validation (0–125 °C), and lower thermal resistance - making it the preferred choice for industrial and automotive applications demanding long-term stability under thermal stress.
Availability
L7812ACV-DG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC power supplies, automotive body control modules, medical diagnostic equipment, and test & measurement instrumentation requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.
Supply support for L7812ACV-DG 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, MCU, power, and sensor solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The L78 series belongs to ST's legacy positive voltage regulator IC portfolio, engineered specifically for rugged, cost-effective local regulation in space-constrained and thermally demanding environments.
FAQ
What is the minimum input voltage required for regulation with L7812ACV-DG?
The minimum input voltage is 14.5 V DC under full-load (1 A) and room-temperature conditions, based on its 2 V dropout specification. At higher junction temperatures or near maximum current, headroom may increase slightly; design margin of ≥15 V is recommended for reliable operation across temperature and load extremes.
Does L7812ACV-DG require input and output capacitors?
Yes - a 0.33 µF ceramic capacitor (CI) is required at the input and a 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor (CO) at the output, placed as close as possible to their respective pins. These stabilize internal feedback and prevent oscillation; omitting them risks instability or excessive noise, especially under dynamic load conditions.
Can L7812ACV-DG be used in parallel for higher current?
No - the L7812ACV-DG lacks built-in current-sharing capability. Parallel connection without external ballast resistors or active current balancing will cause unequal load distribution and potential thermal runaway. For >1.5 A, select a higher-current regulator or switch to a switching solution.
Is the metal tab on the TO-220 package electrically connected?
Yes - the metal tab is internally connected to Pin 2 (Ground). When mounted to a heatsink, ensure electrical isolation (e.g., mica washer + thermal paste) unless the heatsink is grounded. Failure to isolate may create unintended ground loops or short circuits in floating or dual-rail systems.
L7812ACV-DG Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-220-3
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Regulators:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 35V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 12V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Voltage Dropout (Max):
- 2V @ 1A (Typ)
- Current - Output:
- 1.5A
- Current - Quiescent (Iq):
- 6 mA
- Current - Supply (Max):
- -
- PSRR:
- 60dB (120Hz)
- Control Features:
- -
- Protection Features:
- Over Temperature, Short Circuit
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-220
L7812ACV-DG FAQ
1.How can I place an order for L7812ACV-DG through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for L7812ACV-DG 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 L7812ACV-DG reliable?
The price and inventory of L7812ACV-DG are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for L7812ACV-DG is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for L7812ACV-DG?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for L7812ACV-DG transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for L7812ACV-DG?
L7812ACV-DG orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your L7812ACV-DG 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 L7812ACV-DG?
For technical support, including L7812ACV-DG datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your L7812ACV-DG requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that L7812ACV-DG is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All L7812ACV-DG 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 L7812ACV-DG meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of L7812ACV-DG?
All L7812ACV-DG units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with L7812ACV-DG, 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 L7812ACV-DG part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for L7812ACV-DG:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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