STMicroelectronics L7815ACV-DG

Overview

L7815ACV-DG from STMicroelectronics is a three-terminal positive linear voltage regulator delivering a fixed +15 V output with up to 1.5 A continuous current, thermal overload protection, short-circuit protection, and SOA safeguarding. It operates across 0 to 125 °C junction temperature and is packaged in TO-220FP for industrial power supply regulation in embedded control systems.

For engineers reviewing the L7815ACV-DG datasheet, L7815ACV-DG pinout, L7815ACV-DG application, or L7815ACV-DG equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed ±2 % output tolerance (A version), dropout voltage of 2 V at 1 A, 58 dB supply rejection at 120 Hz, and thermal resistance of 5 °C/W (junction-to-case) in TO-220FP package.

Technical Context

This device implements a monolithic series pass transistor architecture with internal current limiting, thermal shutdown, and safe operating area (SOA) protection-enabling robust local regulation without external protection circuitry. Its fixed-output design eliminates need for feedback resistors while maintaining stability with standard 0.33 µF input and 0.1 µF output capacitors.

It functions as a standalone post-regulator in multi-rail systems, accepting unregulated DC inputs from 17.5 V to 30 V and delivering low-noise +15 V at up to 1.5 A under full thermal management. Output voltage drift is specified at −1 mV/°C, supporting stable operation across extended temperature ranges.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Supplied in TO-220FP package: insulated tab, vertical mounting, 3-pin through-hole configuration with integrated heat sink pad. Pin 1 = Input, Pin 2 = Ground, Pin 3 = Output.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-output linear regulator applications.

Compared with LM7815CD2TR and MC7815CD2TG, L7815ACV-DG provides integrated SOA and thermal shutdown - eliminating need for external protection while maintaining identical output accuracy and current capability in TO-220FP form factor.

Availability

L7815ACV-DG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, embedded control modules, motor drive auxiliary rails, and test & measurement equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for L7815ACV-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, power, MCU, and sensor solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The L78 series targets cost-sensitive, high-reliability linear regulation in industrial and embedded systems - emphasizing ruggedness, ease of use, and compatibility with legacy 78xx designs.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for regulation with L7815ACV-DG?

The minimum input voltage is 17.5 V DC under full-load (1 A) and 25 °C conditions, based on its 2 V dropout specification. At higher temperatures or currents approaching 1.5 A, input must be increased to maintain regulation margin - e.g., ≥18.5 V recommended for 125 °C operation.

Can L7815ACV-DG be used without a heatsink?

Yes, for low-power applications: at ≤300 mA load and 25 °C ambient, junction temperature stays below 125 °C without heatsink. However, at 1 A, thermal resistance (60 °C/W) causes ~60 °C rise - requiring a heatsink to avoid thermal shutdown in typical enclosures.

Does L7815ACV-DG require input and output capacitors?

Yes: a minimum 0.33 µF ceramic capacitor is required at the input and 0.1 µF at the output, placed as close as possible to the pins. These stabilize internal feedback and prevent oscillation - omitting either risks instability or excessive output noise.

How does the SOA protection function in L7815ACV-DG?

SOA (Safe Operating Area) protection dynamically limits power dissipation during transient overloads - such as capacitive inrush or short-duration current surges - by reducing output current before second-breakdown occurs in the pass transistor. This complements thermal shutdown and enables recovery without latch-up.