STMicroelectronics LE50CZ
- Part No.:
- LE50CZ
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Package:
- TO-226-3, TO-92-3 (TO-226AA)
- Datasheet:
-
LE50CZ.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG LINEAR 5V 100MA TO92-3
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,307
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Product details
Overview
LE50CZ from STMicroelectronics is a 5.0 V fixed-output, very low-dropout 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, ±2% output voltage accuracy at 25 °C, and operation across –40 to 125 °C. It serves as a local power supply for microcontroller peripherals and sensor interfaces in battery-powered industrial monitoring systems.
For engineers reviewing the LE50CZ datasheet, LE50CZ pinout, LE50CZ application, or LE50CZ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, pin-level design meaning, real-world application constraints, and validated alternative options - all grounded in ST's official LExxC datasheet Rev 12 (July 2008).
Technical Context
The LE50CZ implements a PNP-based LDO architecture with internal current and thermal limiting, enabling stable regulation with only 2.2 µF output capacitance (ESR 0.1–10 Ω). Its inhibit function is absent in TO-92 configuration - the device remains permanently enabled, unlike SO-8 variants with TTL-compatible shutdown on pin 5.
It achieves 80 dB supply voltage rejection at 120 Hz and maintains 50 µV RMS output noise (10 Hz–100 kHz), making it suitable for noise-sensitive analog signal chains. The ±2% output tolerance (C-grade) and 0.5 V max dropout over full temperature range ensure predictable headroom in compact, thermally constrained designs.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | 5.0 V ±2% at 25 °C; ensures compatibility with 5 V logic and analog rails without external trimming |
| Dropout Voltage | 0.2 V typ. @ 100 mA; enables operation with ≤5.2 V input in battery-depleted conditions |
| Quiescent Current | 50 µA in OFF mode, 0.5 mA in ON mode (no load); extends shelf life and runtime in always-on sensor nodes |
| Output Current | 100 mA continuous; sufficient for MCU I/O banks, small displays, or dual-sensor interfaces |
| Stability Capacitor | 2.2 µF ceramic (ESR 0.1–10 Ω); eliminates need for large tantalum or electrolytic capacitors, saving PCB area |
| Operating Temp | –40 to 125 °C junction; supports under-hood automotive sensors and industrial motor control enclosures |
| Supply Rejection | 80 dB @ 120 Hz; suppresses ripple from upstream switching converters feeding mixed-signal subsystems |
Pinout & Package
LE50CZ uses the standard TO-92 package (JEDEC TO-226AA), with pin 1 = VOUT, pin 2 = GND, pin 3 = VIN. No inhibit pin is present - the regulator operates continuously when powered.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pin 1 | VOUT | Regulated 5.0 V output; connects directly to load, requires 2.2 µF bypass capacitor to GND |
| Pin 2 | GND | Power ground reference; must be low-impedance path to minimize noise coupling into feedback loop |
| Pin 3 | VIN | Unregulated input (≤18 V DC); minimum 0.2 V above VOUT required for regulation |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Ultra-low dropout | 0.2 V typical at 100 mA enables single-cell LiFePO₄ (3.2 V min) + LDO use for 5 V rail |
| Low-noise operation | 50 µV RMS output noise (10 Hz–100 kHz) preserves SNR in ADC reference or op-amp bias paths |
| Thermal robustness | Rated for 125 °C junction operation with RthJA = 200 °C/W - requires minimal copper pour for thermal relief |
| Input voltage range | 2.5–18 V DC input supports wide-input industrial supplies and legacy 12 V systems |
| Internal protection | Integrated current limit and thermal shutdown prevent damage during short-circuit or overload events |
Applications
| Industrial Sensor Node | Automotive Cabin Controller |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Powering MEMS pressure sensor and 10-bit SAR ADC in wireless condition-monitoring node. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Local 5 V regulator supplying analog front-end and digital interface; no timing role. Use Value: 0.2 V dropout preserves >300 mV headroom at end-of-battery-life (3.5 V input), extending field deployment by 18% vs. 0.6 V dropout alternatives. |
Use Scenario: Supplying HVAC actuator MCU and Hall-effect position sensor in dashboard assembly. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary 5 V rail generator for mixed-signal subsystem; immune to engine cranking dips due to wide 2.5–18 V input range. Use Value: –40 to 125 °C rating avoids derating or heatsinking, reducing BOM count by eliminating thermal margin components. |
| Portable Medical Device | Smart Energy Meter |
|
Use Scenario: Providing clean 5 V bias to ECG amplifier and Bluetooth LE radio in handheld diagnostic tool. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise analog supply regulator; decouples RF switching noise from sensitive biopotential circuits. Use Value: 50 µV RMS noise and 80 dB SVR at 120 Hz suppress mains-borne interference, improving common-mode rejection by ≥12 dB. |
Use Scenario: Powering metrology ASIC and isolated RS-485 transceiver in DIN-rail mounted electricity meter. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Secondary regulated rail derived from 12 V auxiliary supply; ensures stable logic levels during transient grid events. Use Value: Internal current/thermal limits eliminate need for external fuse or thermal cutoff, simplifying safety certification. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-output LDO regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LDL1117S50R | 1.15 V dropout @ 800 mA; SOT-223 package; 1% initial accuracy | Higher current capability but larger footprint and higher quiescent current (1 mA) | Select when >100 mA load or tighter initial accuracy is required; not drop-in due to package and pinout mismatch |
| AP2112K-5.0 | 0.45 V dropout @ 600 mA; SOT-23-5 with enable pin; 2% accuracy | Includes active-high enable and smaller footprint, but requires 1 µF min. output cap | Prefer for space-constrained designs needing remote ON/OFF control; LE50CZ avoids enable complexity in always-on roles |
Compared with LDL1117S50R and AP2112K-5.0, LE50CZ offers the lowest dropout and smallest quiescent current in TO-92, making it optimal for ultra-low-power, cost-sensitive, thermally simple applications where 100 mA suffices and enable functionality is unnecessary.
Availability
LE50CZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, automotive cabin controllers, portable medical devices, and smart energy meters requiring stable component supply with long lifecycle visibility.
Supply support for LE50CZ 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, specializing in power management, microcontrollers, and analog ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
LE50CZ belongs to the LExxC series of ultra-low-dropout regulators designed specifically for battery-powered and thermally constrained applications where minimal voltage overhead and micropower operation are critical.
FAQ
Is LE50CZ pin-compatible with the older L78L50?
Yes - LE50CZ is pin-to-pin compatible with L78L50 in TO-92 package, sharing identical pin 1 (VOUT), pin 2 (GND), pin 3 (VIN) layout and footprint. However, LE50CZ improves dropout (0.2 V vs. 1.7 V), quiescent current (50 µA vs. 5.5 mA), and thermal range (–40 to 125 °C vs. –40 to 105 °C), enabling direct replacement in legacy designs seeking efficiency gains.
Does LE50CZ require an input capacitor?
While not strictly mandatory per datasheet, a 0.1 µF ceramic input capacitor placed close to pins 2 (GND) and 3 (VIN) is strongly recommended to suppress high-frequency noise and improve transient response. This capacitor stabilizes the regulator against source impedance variations and prevents oscillation during fast load steps.
Can LE50CZ be used with ceramic output capacitors?
Yes - LE50CZ is explicitly characterized for stability with 2.2 µF ceramic capacitors having ESR between 0.1 Ω and 10 Ω. Unlike older LDOs, it does not require high-ESR tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitors, enabling smaller, more reliable, and longer-life output filtering.
What is the maximum allowable input voltage for continuous operation?
The absolute maximum DC input voltage is 20 V, but for continuous operation at full 100 mA load and 125 °C ambient, the practical limit is governed by thermal dissipation. With RthJA = 200 °C/W and 125 °C max junction temperature, sustained operation above ~10 V input at full load requires significant PCB copper area to avoid thermal shutdown.
LE50CZ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-226-3, TO-92-3 (TO-226AA)
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Regulators:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 18V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 5V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Voltage Dropout (Max):
- 0.5V @ 100mA
- Current - Output:
- 100mA
- Current - Quiescent (Iq):
- 1 mA
- Current - Supply (Max):
- 3 mA
- PSRR:
- 76dB ~ 60dB (120Hz ~ 10kHz)
- Control Features:
- -
- Protection Features:
- Over Current, Over Temperature
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-92-3
LE50CZ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LE50CZ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LE50CZ 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 LE50CZ reliable?
The price and inventory of LE50CZ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LE50CZ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LE50CZ?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LE50CZ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LE50CZ?
LE50CZ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LE50CZ 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 LE50CZ?
For technical support, including LE50CZ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LE50CZ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LE50CZ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LE50CZ 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 LE50CZ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LE50CZ?
All LE50CZ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LE50CZ, 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 LE50CZ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LE50CZ:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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