STMicroelectronics LM236DT

Overview

LM236DT from STMicroelectronics is a precision 2.5V shunt voltage reference IC in SO-8 package, featuring 0.2Ω dynamic impedance, ±5mV initial accuracy at 1mA, and guaranteed temperature stability over –25°C to +85°C. It operates as an adjustable 2.5V Zener-like reference with a dedicated ADJ pin, enabling fine-tuning of output voltage and temperature coefficient in precision analog circuits such as ADC biasing and sensor signal conditioning.

For engineers reviewing the LM236DT datasheet, LM236DT pinout, LM236DT application, or LM236DT equivalent, key selection criteria include its low dynamic impedance, wide 400µA–10mA operating current range, adjustable reference voltage capability, and SO-8 footprint compatibility with industrial-grade thermal performance requirements.

Technical Context

The LM236DT implements a monolithic bandgap-derived shunt reference architecture with a three-terminal configuration (V+, V−, ADJ), allowing external adjustment of breakdown voltage without altering temperature coefficient. Its low 0.2Ω dynamic impedance ensures minimal output voltage variation under load transients.

It delivers stable 2.5V reference performance across –25°C to +85°C with ≤9mV total temperature-induced drift (typ.) and ≤20ppm/1000h long-term stability at 25°C. The ADJ pin enables trimming via external resistor networks to compensate for system-level gain errors or initial tolerance stack-up.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM236DT is housed in an SO-8 plastic micropackage (ECOPACK® compliant, lead-free second-level interconnect). Dimensions: 4.9mm × 6.0mm × 1.75mm (L × H × A), 1.27mm pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar shunt voltage reference applications.

Compared with TL431ACDT and REF3025AIDBVR, the LM236DT uniquely combines adjustable reference voltage, ultra-low dynamic impedance, and guaranteed wide-temperature stability in a shunt topology-making it optimal for calibration-critical, space-constrained industrial analog designs.

Availability

LM236DT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interfaces, precision data acquisition systems, programmable power supplies, and calibrated instrumentation amplifier designs requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for LM236DT 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 microcontrollers, analog ICs, power devices, and MEMS sensors for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The LM236DT belongs to ST's precision voltage reference product line, engineered specifically for high-stability, adjustable shunt reference applications in harsh-temperature industrial environments where calibration flexibility and long-term drift control are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum operating current for stable regulation in the LM236DT?

The LM236DT maintains stable 2.5V reference regulation down to 400µA, verified across –25°C to +85°C. Below this current, output voltage deviates beyond specification limits due to insufficient internal biasing; design margin should maintain ≥500µA for robust operation in variable-temperature environments.

Can the ADJ pin be left unconnected in a fixed-voltage application?

No-the ADJ pin must be connected to either V+ or V− via a defined resistor network to establish the reference voltage and temperature coefficient. Leaving it floating causes undefined output voltage and unstable regulation; ST recommends tying ADJ to V− through a 10kΩ potentiometer for baseline 2.49V operation.

How does the LM236DT's dynamic impedance affect ADC reference performance?

With 0.2Ω typical dynamic impedance, the LM236DT limits reference voltage droop to <0.2mV per 1mA transient current draw-critical for 16-bit+ ADCs where 1LSB = ~38µV at 2.5V full scale. This ensures sampling accuracy remains unaffected by digital switching noise coupling into the reference path.

Is the SO-8 package of the LM236DT compatible with standard reflow profiles?

Yes-the LM236DT's SO-8 ECOPACK® package is qualified for standard Pb-free reflow per JEDEC J-STD-020, with peak temperature up to 260°C. The inner box label specifies soldering conditions, and the lead-free second-level interconnect meets RoHS and REACH compliance requirements without requiring special thermal profiling.