STMicroelectronics LE30CZ

Overview

LE30CZ from STMicroelectronics is a 3.0 V fixed-output, very low dropout (LDO) linear voltage regulator in TO-92 package, delivering up to 100 mA output current with 0.2 V typical dropout at full load, 50 µA quiescent current in OFF mode, and ±2 % output voltage accuracy at 25 °C. It operates across –40 to 125 °C and supports battery-powered sensor nodes, portable medical monitors, and low-power microcontroller peripherals.

For engineers reviewing the LE30CZ datasheet, LE30CZ pinout, LE30CZ application, or LE30CZ equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage under 100 mA load, shutdown logic compatibility, thermal performance in TO-92, and stability with only 2.2 µF output capacitance.

Technical Context

The LE30CZ implements a PNP-based pass transistor architecture enabling ultra-low dropout operation while maintaining internal current and thermal limiting. Its inhibit function is disabled in TO-92 configuration-pin 3 (VIN), pin 2 (GND), and pin 1 (VOUT) form a standard three-terminal regulator without enable control.

Unlike SO-8 variants (e.g., LE30AB), the TO-92 version lacks an Inhibit pin and remains permanently enabled, simplifying board layout but removing system-level power gating capability. Output stability is guaranteed with 2.2 µF ceramic capacitor (ESR 0.1–10 Ω), eliminating need for larger electrolytics.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LE30CZ is housed in a TO-92 plastic package with standard three-terminal configuration: Pin 1 = VOUT, Pin 2 = GND, Pin 3 = VIN (bottom view). No inhibit or adjust pin is present; device operates in permanent ON state.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LE30AB, LE30CZ trades pin-compatible shutdown control for TO-92 cost and simplicity; versus MCP1700, it offers integrated protection and higher PSRR at the expense of quiescent current, making it better suited for ruggedized industrial use.

Availability

LE30CZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wearable health monitors, industrial sensor nodes, smart meter auxiliary rails, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for LE30CZ 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, designing and manufacturing analog, microcontroller, power, and sensor solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The LE series LDO regulators were developed specifically for ultra-low-power, high-reliability embedded systems where dropout voltage, quiescent current, and thermal robustness are design-critical parameters.

FAQ

Is LE30CZ pin-compatible with the legacy L78L33?

No. LE30CZ delivers 3.0 V output, whereas L78L33 provides 3.3 V. While both use TO-92 and share pinout (VOUT-GND-VIN), substituting LE30CZ for L78L33 will underpower 3.3 V logic. Verify downstream voltage margin before replacement.

Can LE30CZ be used with tantalum output capacitors?

Yes, but only if ESR falls within 0.1–10 Ω and capacitance is ≥2.2 µF. Tantalum caps outside this range may cause instability or oscillation. Ceramic capacitors are preferred for guaranteed stability and lower ESL.

Does LE30CZ require an input capacitor?

Yes. A minimum 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the VIN pin is required to suppress high-frequency noise and ensure transient response stability, especially when sourced from a switching regulator or long PCB traces.

What is the maximum allowable power dissipation for LE30CZ in TO-92?

At TA = 25 °C, maximum power dissipation is 0.5 W (calculated via RthJA = 200 °C/W). Derate linearly above 25 °C ambient; at 85 °C ambient, max dissipation drops to 0.2 W. Heatsinking is not feasible in TO-92; limit ΔV × IOUT accordingly.