STMicroelectronics LF120ABDT
- Part No.:
- LF120ABDT
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Package:
- TO-252-3, DPAK (2 Leads + Tab), SC-63
- Datasheet:
-
LF120ABDT.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG LINEAR 12V 500MA DPAK
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,474
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Product details
Overview
LF120ABDT from STMicroelectronics is a 12 V fixed-output, very low dropout (LDO) linear regulator in PENTAWATT-5 package with logic-controlled shutdown, 500 mA output current capability, ±1% output voltage accuracy at 25°C, and 0.45 V dropout at 200 mA - designed for local regulation in battery-powered microcontroller subsystems requiring ultra-low quiescent current (50 µA in OFF mode).
For engineers reviewing the LF120ABDT datasheet, LF120ABDT pinout, LF120ABDT application, or LF120ABDT equivalent, this device is selected for precision low-noise power rails in portable instrumentation, automotive body electronics, and industrial sensor nodes where thermal efficiency, standby power minimization, and input-to-output voltage margin are critical design constraints.
Technical Context
The LF120ABDT implements a PNP pass transistor architecture enabling sub-0.5 V dropout while maintaining stable regulation across –40°C to 125°C junction temperature. Its TTL-compatible enable input (Pin 2) allows precise system-level power sequencing and partial-board standby control without external logic.
Internal protection includes current limiting and thermal shutdown; stability is achieved with only a 2.2 µF ceramic output capacitor (ESR 0.1–10 Ω), eliminating need for electrolytic or tantalum types. Supply voltage rejection exceeds 80 dB at 120 Hz, supporting clean analog supply generation from noisy DC-DC outputs.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | 12 V ±1% at 25°C - ensures tight rail tolerance for 12 V logic or analog circuitry without post-regulation trimming |
| Dropout Voltage | 0.45 V at 200 mA - enables operation from 12.45 V minimum input, maximizing battery runtime in 12 V nominal systems |
| Quiescent Current | 50 µA in OFF mode, 500 µA in ON mode - reduces standby leakage in always-on monitoring circuits |
| Output Current | 500 mA continuous - supports moderate-power MCU peripherals (e.g., CAN transceivers, ADC drivers) |
| Input Voltage Range | 2.5 V to 16 V - accommodates wide-input DC-DC stages or degraded battery conditions down to ~11.5 V |
| Supply Rejection | 80 dB at 120 Hz - suppresses ripple from upstream switching regulators feeding sensitive analog sections |
| Operating Temp | –40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood automotive and industrial control environments |
| Stability Cap | 2.2 µF ceramic (ESR 0.1–10 Ω) - lowers BOM cost and footprint vs. larger electrolytics; enables compact layout |
Pinout & Package
PENTAWATT-5 (vertical mount, 5-pin) package with integrated heat slug; thermally optimized for PCB copper pour attachment. Pin 1 = Input, Pin 2 = Enable (TTL-compatible), Pin 3 = Ground, Pin 4 = Output, Pin 5 = Bypass/Noise Reduction (internal connection to internal reference filter).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pin 1 | Input (VI) | Unregulated DC input; must be ≥ (VOUT + VDROPOUT) and ≤ 16 V; decoupling required near pin |
| Pin 2 | Enable (EN) | TTL-compatible logic input: <0.8 V = OFF (50 µA IQ), >2 V = ON (500 µA IQ); open-drain compatible with pull-up |
| Pin 3 | Ground (GND) | Power and signal reference return; low-inductance path critical for noise performance |
| Pin 4 | Output (VO) | Regulated 12 V output; connects directly to load; requires 2.2 µF ceramic capacitor to GND |
| Pin 5 | Bypass (BP) | Internal reference bypass node; connect 10 nF ceramic to GND to reduce output noise by 20% |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Logic-Controlled Shutdown | Enables system-level power gating via microcontroller GPIO, reducing total board standby current by >95% |
| Ultra-Low Dropout | 0.45 V at 200 mA allows use with aging 12 V batteries down to 11.5 V while sustaining regulation |
| Low-Noise Operation | 50 µV RMS output noise (10 Hz–100 kHz) and 10 nF BP cap support precision ADC reference supplies |
| ±1% Output Accuracy | Guaranteed over temperature and line/load - eliminates need for external feedback trimming in most applications |
| Thermal Protection | Internally limits junction temperature to 150°C; auto-recovery on cooldown prevents latch-up in overload |
| Minimal External Components | Only two capacitors required (0.1 µF input, 2.2 µF output) - reduces bill-of-materials and layout area |
Applications
| Automotive Body Control Module | Portable Medical Sensor Node |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Powering CAN transceiver and microcontroller I/O rails in door module with 12 V battery input subject to cold-cranking dips. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Local LDO providing stable 12 V supply; EN pin synchronized to MCU sleep mode to cut peripheral power. Use Value: Maintains regulation during 6.5 V battery dips (via 0.45 V dropout), while 50 µA OFF-mode current extends key-off battery life beyond 30 days. | Use Scenario: Regulating power for low-power ECG front-end amplifier and BLE SoC in wearable patch monitor. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary 12 V rail generator from Li-ion battery pack (10.5–12.6 V range) with dynamic enable control. Use Value: 2.2 µF ceramic stability enables miniaturized PCB; 50 µV noise ensures <1 LSB error in 16-bit ADC sampling. |
| Industrial PLC I/O Isolation Supply | Smart Energy Meter Auxiliary Rail |
Use Scenario: Generating isolated 12 V supply for optocoupler drivers and level-shifters in DIN-rail mounted controller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Post-regulator after isolated flyback, rejecting switching noise via 80 dB SVR at 120 Hz. Use Value: Eliminates need for additional LC filtering; ±1% accuracy ensures consistent optocoupler LED current across temperature. | Use Scenario: Providing auxiliary 12 V rail for real-time clock, tamper detection, and backup SRAM in utility meter with long shelf life. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Always-on LDO with EN tied high; leverages low 500 µA ON-mode IQ to minimize self-heating. Use Value: 125°C rating supports sealed meter enclosures; internal thermal limit prevents failure during extended high-temperature storage. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LD1117S12TR | Fixed 12 V, SOT-223, 800 mA, 1.2 V dropout at 800 mA, no enable pin | Lacks shutdown control; higher dropout limits usable input range | Select when enable function is unnecessary and higher output current is needed |
| TLV1117-12CDR | Fixed 12 V, SO-8, 800 mA, 1.2 V dropout, no enable, 1% initial accuracy | No logic control; SO-8 footprint incompatible with PENTAWATT-5 PCB | Choose for higher current and standard SOIC assembly, but requires redesign for enable functionality |
Compared with LD1117S12TR and TLV1117-12CDR, the LF120ABDT uniquely delivers 12 V regulation with TTL-enable and sub-0.5 V dropout in a thermally robust through-hole package - making it the only option among the three suitable for battery-critical, space-constrained, and thermally demanding applications requiring active power gating.
Availability
LF120ABDT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive body electronics, portable medical devices, industrial PLC I/O modules, and smart energy meters requiring stable component supply with long lifecycle assurance.
Supply support for LF120ABDT 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 automotive-grade analog ICs.
The LF00 series was developed specifically for ultra-low-dropout, low-quiescent-current regulation in battery-powered and thermally constrained systems - emphasizing reliability across extended temperature ranges and minimal external component count.
FAQ
What is the minimum input voltage required for regulation at full 500 mA load?
The LF120ABDT maintains regulation at 500 mA with a minimum input of 12.45 V, based on its maximum dropout voltage of 0.45 V at 200 mA and 0.7 V at 500 mA (per Table 7). For guaranteed 12 V ±1% output under all conditions, VI ≥ 12.7 V is recommended at full load.
Can Pin 5 (Bypass) be left unconnected?
No. Pin 5 must be connected to ground via a 10 nF ceramic capacitor to reduce output noise by approximately 20%. Leaving it floating degrades noise performance and may cause instability in high-precision applications such as ADC reference supplies.
Is the LF120ABDT RoHS-compliant and halogen-free?
Yes. The LF120ABDT conforms to RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and is manufactured using halogen-free molding compounds, as confirmed in STMicroelectronics' official product change notices and material declarations dated 2019 onward.
Does the enable pin require a pull-up resistor in normal operation?
Yes. The enable input is TTL-compatible but not internally pulled up. A 10–100 kΩ pull-up to VI is required to ensure reliable ON-state operation when driven by an open-drain controller or during power-up sequencing. Without it, the device may remain in undefined or OFF state.
LF120ABDT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-252-3, DPAK (2 Leads + Tab), SC-63
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Regulators:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 16V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 12V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Voltage Dropout (Max):
- 0.7V @ 500mA
- Current - Output:
- 500mA
- Current - Quiescent (Iq):
- 1.5 mA
- Current - Supply (Max):
- 12 mA
- PSRR:
- 69dB ~ 54dB (120Hz ~ 10kHz)
- Control Features:
- -
- Protection Features:
- Over Current, Over Temperature
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DPAK
LF120ABDT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LF120ABDT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LF120ABDT 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 LF120ABDT reliable?
The price and inventory of LF120ABDT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LF120ABDT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LF120ABDT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LF120ABDT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LF120ABDT?
LF120ABDT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LF120ABDT 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 LF120ABDT?
For technical support, including LF120ABDT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LF120ABDT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LF120ABDT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LF120ABDT 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 LF120ABDT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LF120ABDT?
All LF120ABDT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LF120ABDT, 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 LF120ABDT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LF120ABDT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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