Texas Instruments LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB

Overview

LM3480IM3X-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. It serves as a compact replacement for LM78L12 in space-constrained analog bias and post-regulation applications.

For engineers reviewing the LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB datasheet, LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB pinout, LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB application, or LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 1.2-V max dropout at 100 mA, 0.1 µF minimum input/output capacitance requirement, thermal shutdown protection, and SOT-23 footprint compatibility with legacy LM78Lxx-based layouts.

Technical Context

The LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB uses a PNP pass transistor architecture enabling quasi-LDO operation with low ground current (≤4 mA no-load) and high PSRR (>50 dB at 120 Hz). Its internal bandgap reference and thermal shutdown circuitry ensure stable 12-V regulation under varying line, load, and temperature conditions.

Unlike standard LDOs, it does not require an external bypass capacitor for stability and operates without ESR constraints on its 0.1 µF input/output capacitors. The device is optimized for fixed-output use with no adjustment pin - output voltage is factory-trimmed and non-programmable.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-23 (DBZ) package: 2.92 mm × 1.30 mm body, 1.12 mm max height, 3-pin surface-mount outline with gull-wing leads. RoHS-compliant matte tin (SN) lead finish, MSL Level-1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-output linear regulator applications.

Compared with LM78L12ACZ/NOPB, LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB offers 1.3-V lower dropout and integrated thermal protection; compared with TLV76012DBVR, it provides 5 dB higher PSRR and proven robustness in industrial line-transient environments despite higher quiescent current.

Availability

LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor conditioning, post-regulation of switching supplies, and embedded control board biasing requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for LM3480IM3X-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 company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, delivering analog and embedded processing solutions for industrial, automotive, and personal electronics markets.

The LM3480 series was designed as a miniature, quasi-LDO alternative to legacy 78Lxx regulators - targeting space-constrained applications where dropout voltage, thermal reliability, and SMT compatibility are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for stable operation of the LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB?

The LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB requires a minimum input voltage of 13.2 V to maintain regulated 12-V output at full 100-mA load, based on its 1.2-V maximum dropout specification. At lighter loads, input can be reduced further - e.g., 12.5 V suffices at 10 mA - but design margin should account for line tolerance and temperature drift. Input below VNOM + 1.5 V risks regulation loss per datasheet test conditions.

Can the LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB replace LM78L12ACZ/NOPB without PCB changes?

The LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB uses a 3-pin SOT-23 (DBZ) package versus the TO-92 of LM78L12ACZ/NOPB, so direct PCB replacement requires footprint revision. However, pin assignments (IN-GND-OUT) match identically, and both regulate to 12 V ±5%. Layout adaptation is minimal - only pad geometry and stencil design need updating; no netlist or schematic change is necessary.

What output capacitor value is required for stability with the LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB?

The LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB requires a minimum 0.1 µF ceramic output capacitor placed adjacent to the OUT and GND pins for stability across all operating conditions. Larger values (e.g., 1–10 µF) improve load transient response but are not required. No ESR constraint applies, making X7R or X5R ceramics fully suitable without derating.

Does the LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB include current limiting or short-circuit protection?

Yes, the LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB incorporates internal current limiting and thermal shutdown. Under short-circuit conditions, output current is limited to approximately 120 mA (typical), and junction temperature is actively clamped at ~150°C. This protection operates without external components and resets automatically once temperature normalizes.

How does the LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB perform under high-temperature conditions?

The LM3480IM3X-12/NOPB is specified for continuous operation from −40°C to +125°C junction temperature. Electrical characteristics including output voltage tolerance (±5%), dropout (≤1.2 V), and ground current (≤4 mA) are ensured across this full range. Derating is required above 50°C ambient per its 269.6°C/W R_θJA; heatsinking or airflow extends usable power dissipation.