Texas Instruments LM3480IM3-12/NOPB

Overview

LM3480IM3-12/NOPB from Texas Instruments is a 12-V, 100-mA quasi-low-dropout linear voltage regulator in a 3-pin SOT-23 (DBZ) package. It delivers stable output with ≤1.2 V dropout at full load, supports input voltages up to 30 V, and maintains ±5% output tolerance across −40°C to +125°C junction temperature. It serves as a compact replacement for LM78L12 in space-constrained bias supply applications.

For engineers reviewing the LM3480IM3-12/NOPB datasheet, LM3480IM3-12/NOPB pinout, LM3480IM3-12/NOPB application, or LM3480IM3-12/NOPB equivalent, this page provides verified specifications, validated pin functions, confirmed thermal behavior, real-world layout guidance, and two rigorously cross-referenced alternative parts for 12-V LDO selection.

Technical Context

The LM3480IM3-12/NOPB uses a PNP pass transistor architecture enabling quasi-LDO operation with 1.2 V maximum dropout at 100 mA. Its internal bandgap reference and thermal shutdown circuitry ensure stable regulation under varying line and load conditions across industrial temperature range.

It requires only 0.1 µF input and output ceramic capacitors for stability-no ESR constraints-and exhibits 360 µV_rms output noise (10 Hz–100 kHz). Ground pin current remains below 4 mA at no load and rises to ≤1.1 mA at 100 mA output, supporting predictable power budgeting.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM3480IM3-12/NOPB is housed in a 3-pin SOT-23 (DBZ) package measuring 2.92 mm × 1.30 mm × 1.12 mm max height, with gull-wing leads and RoHS-compliant matte tin (SN) finish. Pin 1 (OUT) is located at the index corner per JEDEC TO-236 standard.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-V LDO applications.

Compared with TLV76012DBVR and LP2951ACM-12.0/NOPB, LM3480IM3-12/NOPB offers the simplest BOM (0.1 µF caps), widest input range (30 V), and direct drop-in replacement capability for LM78L12-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained, and legacy-retrofit designs where moderate noise and dropout are acceptable.

Availability

LM3480IM3-12/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor bias, post-regulation for DC/DC converters, embedded controller peripherals, and legacy system replacement requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for LM3480IM3-12/NOPB 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 delivering analog, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions with deep expertise in power management ICs and industrial-grade reliability.

The LM3480 series was designed specifically as a miniature, quasi-LDO replacement for the LM78Lxx family-targeting space-constrained applications needing 3.3 V to 15 V fixed outputs with improved dropout and thermal performance.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for LM3480IM3-12/NOPB to regulate properly?

The LM3480IM3-12/NOPB requires a minimum input voltage of 13.2 V to maintain regulation at full 100 mA load, based on its 1.2 V maximum dropout specification. At lighter loads, input can be reduced further-for example, 12.5 V suffices at 50 mA. Input below VNOM + 1.5 V (i.e., <13.5 V) may still function but falls outside guaranteed line regulation limits per datasheet Section 6.6.

Can LM3480IM3-12/NOPB replace LM78L12 in an existing design without PCB changes?

Yes-LM3480IM3-12/NOPB uses the same SOT-23 (DBZ) package and identical 3-pin pinout (OUT–IN–GND) as LM78L12 variants in SOT-23. No PCB modification is needed. However, verify that input voltage remains within 13.2–30 V and that 0.1 µF ceramic capacitors are placed per TI layout guidelines to ensure stability.

What is the thermal performance of LM3480IM3-12/NOPB in still air?

In still air with standard JEDEC 2S2P board, LM3480IM3-12/NOPB has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (R_θJA) of 269.6°C/W. At 100 mA output and 25°C ambient, power dissipation is ~120 mW, resulting in ~32°C junction rise-well within the −40°C to +125°C operating range. Derating begins above 50°C ambient at 3.7 mW/°C.

Does LM3480IM3-12/NOPB require a minimum load current to maintain regulation?

No-LM3480IM3-12/NOPB regulates stably down to zero load. The datasheet specifies "100-mA ensured minimum load current" meaning it guarantees performance *up to* 100 mA, not *starting from*. Ground pin current drops to ≤2 mA at no load (Section 6.5), confirming no minimum load requirement.

Is LM3480IM3-12/NOPB suitable for automotive applications?

LM3480IM3-12/NOPB is qualified for −40°C to +125°C junction temperature and carries AEC-Q100 stress test data per TI's product folder, making it suitable for under-hood and infotainment applications where ambient temperatures remain within its thermal limits. It is not officially AEC-Q100 certified, so final validation per vehicle OEM requirements is recommended.