Texas Instruments LM2674N-12

Overview

LM2674N-12 from Texas Instruments is a monolithic 500 mA step-down (buck) switching voltage regulator in an 8-pin DIP package, delivering a fixed 12 V output with ±1.5% tolerance over line and load conditions, 94% efficiency at 24 V_IN/500 mA, and 260 kHz fixed-frequency operation. It integrates a 0.25 Ω DMOS power switch, internal frequency compensation, thermal shutdown, and current limiting-designed for industrial power supplies requiring compact, high-efficiency DC/DC conversion.

For engineers reviewing the LM2674N-12 datasheet, LM2674N-12 pinout, LM2674N-12 application, or LM2674N-12 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 8–40 V input range, TTL-compatible shutdown pin (50 μA standby), 95% max duty cycle, and compatibility with standard off-the-shelf inductors and Schottky catch diodes-enabling rapid design of robust, thermally efficient buck converters without external compensation.

Technical Context

The LM2674N-12 employs a fixed-frequency PWM architecture with an internal 260 kHz oscillator and patented LMDMOS process, enabling stable regulation without external loop compensation. Its integrated 0.25 Ω DMOS switch supports continuous 500 mA output while maintaining >90% efficiency across wide input ranges.

Operation requires only five external components: input capacitor, output capacitor, catch diode, inductor, and boost capacitor. The device features internal thermal shutdown and cycle-by-cycle current limiting, with guaranteed performance from −40°C to +125°C junction temperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM2674N-12 is housed in an 8-pin plastic dual in-line package (DIP), with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Thermal resistance θ_JA is 95°C/W with ~1 in² PCB copper area.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM2674M-12 and LM2674LD-12, the LM2674N-12 offers through-hole manufacturability, simplified thermal design via exposed leads, and direct compatibility with legacy 78xx-style footprints-making it ideal for prototyping, repair, and low-volume industrial builds where soldering flexibility and thermal margin are prioritized over miniaturization.

Availability

LM2674N-12 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, automotive subsystems, test equipment power modules, and legacy system upgrades requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence support.

Supply support for LM2674N-12 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with decades of expertise in power management ICs.

The LM2674 series belongs to TI's SIMPLE SWITCHER® portfolio-designed specifically for engineers seeking easy-to-use, highly reliable DC/DC buck converters that minimize design time and external component count while delivering >90% efficiency.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage for LM2674N-12?

The absolute maximum input voltage for LM2674N-12 is 45 V, but the recommended operating range is 8 V to 40 V. Operation above 40 V risks exceeding internal device limits and may trigger overvoltage protection or cause permanent damage. For reliable long-term use, maintain VIN ≤ 40 V under all conditions, including transients.

Does LM2674N-12 require external compensation components?

No, LM2674N-12 does not require external compensation components. It incorporates patented internal frequency compensation (U.S. Patents 5,382,918 and 5,514,947), enabling stable operation with only five external parts: input capacitor, output capacitor, catch diode, inductor, and boost capacitor. This eliminates tuning effort and improves design repeatability.

Can LM2674N-12 be used in place of a 7812 linear regulator?

Yes, LM2674N-12 can replace a 7812 in many applications-but with important layout changes. While both deliver 12 V, LM2674N-12 is a switching regulator requiring an inductor, catch diode, and specific capacitor types. Its DIP-8 footprint differs from TO-220 7812, so mechanical fit is not drop-in; however, it provides >90% efficiency versus ~40% for 7812 at 24 V input, drastically reducing heat.

What is the purpose of the BOOST pin on LM2674N-12?

The BOOST pin on LM2674N-12 provides gate-drive voltage for the internal DMOS switch. It must be connected to the SW pin via a 0.01 μF ceramic capacitor to generate the required bootstrap voltage. Omitting or misrouting this capacitor causes switch failure, erratic regulation, or no output-this connection is mandatory and non-optional in every working LM2674N-12 design.

Is LM2674N-12 RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes, LM2674N-12 is RoHS compliant and lead-free. Texas Instruments certifies this part as meeting JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 1 (MSL-1) and RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU requirements. The DIP package uses matte tin lead finish, and the device is rated for Pb-free soldering up to 260°C for 10 seconds, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table.