Texas Instruments LM79L15ACMX

Overview

LM79L15ACMX from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output, 3-terminal negative voltage regulator delivering −15 V at up to 100 mA, with ±5% output voltage error over load, line, and temperature. It features internal short-circuit, thermal, and safe operating area protection, and requires only a 0.1 μF output capacitor for stability. It is used in dual-rail analog power supplies, industrial control logic, and embedded system bias rails.

For engineers reviewing the LM79L15ACMX datasheet, LM79L15ACMX pinout, LM79L15ACMX application, or LM79L15ACMX equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, package-specific pin mapping, real-world application scenarios, and validated alternative options for design-in and supply continuity planning.

Technical Context

The LM79L15ACMX implements a monolithic bipolar linear regulator architecture with built-in current limiting, thermal shutdown, and SOA protection. Its −15 V output is trimmed at wafer level to ±5% tolerance across 0°C to +70°C ambient, and it maintains ≤0.01% load regulation (per mA) and ≤0.07% line regulation (per V) under specified conditions.

It operates with an input voltage range of −18 V to −30 V for full regulation, exhibits 45 mV typical line regulation and 45 mV typical load regulation at 100 mA, and delivers 96 μV RMS output noise (10 Hz–10 kHz). The device is unconditionally stable with ≥0.1 μF ceramic or aluminum electrolytic output capacitance.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM79L15ACMX is packaged in an 8-pin SOIC (D) package (JEDEC MS-012AA), 3.91 mm × 4.90 mm footprint, 1.75 mm max height, RoHS-compliant tin (SN) lead finish, MSL Level-1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar negative fixed-voltage regulator applications.

Compared with LM79L15ACMX, the LM79L15ACZ/NOPB trades thermal performance for through-hole compatibility, while the LM337LD/NOPB adds adjustability and accuracy at the cost of external components and higher quiescent current - making LM79L15ACMX optimal for cost-sensitive, fixed −15 V SOIC-based designs.

Availability

LM79L15ACMX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, analog signal conditioning circuits, and embedded dual-rail power supplies requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for LM79L15ACMX 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, embedded processing, and power management technologies, with decades of expertise in linear regulator design and manufacturing reliability.

The LM79LXXAC series was engineered for cost-effective, thermally robust negative voltage regulation in industrial and commercial equipment - prioritizing ease of use, intrinsic protection, and compatibility with standard PCB assembly processes.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage for LM79L15ACMX?

The absolute maximum input voltage for LM79L15ACMX is −35 V. For guaranteed regulation and safe operation, the recommended input range is −18 V to −30 V. Exceeding −30 V may degrade line regulation or trigger thermal shutdown under load; always maintain ≥2.5 V headroom between input and output to ensure dropout compliance.

Does LM79L15ACMX require an input capacitor?

While not strictly mandatory for stability, LM79L15ACMX benefits from a ≥10 μF aluminum or tantalum input capacitor placed near the −VIN pins (3 and 6) to suppress ripple and improve transient response. This is especially critical when the regulator is located far from the main power supply filter or when driving dynamic loads.

Can LM79L15ACMX be used in place of LM79L15ACZ/NOPB?

Yes - LM79L15ACMX and LM79L15ACZ/NOPB share identical electrical specifications including −15 V output, ±5% tolerance, 100 mA rating, and protection features. However, LM79L15ACMX uses an SOIC-8 package with superior thermal performance (θJA = 180°C/W vs. 232°C/W), making it preferable for sustained 80–100 mA operation without heatsinking.

What is the purpose of Pins 4, 5, and 8 on LM79L15ACMX?

Pins 4, 5, and 8 on LM79L15ACMX are No Connect (NC) terminals with no internal connection. They must remain unconnected on the PCB layout. These pins exist for mechanical symmetry and package compatibility across the LM79LXXAC family but carry no electrical function in the LM79L15ACMX device.

Is LM79L15ACMX RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes, LM79L15ACMX is RoHS compliant and features a lead-free tin (SN) lead finish. It meets JEDEC MSL Level-1 (260°C peak reflow) requirements and is qualified for standard Pb-free soldering processes. The part marking "LM79L15ACM" appears on the top surface, consistent with TI's SOIC-8 packaging standards.