Texas Instruments LMR12010XMKX/NOPB

Overview

LMR12010XMKX/NOPB from Texas Instruments is a monolithic 1.6 MHz PWM step-down DC/DC regulator in a 6-pin SOT-23-THIN package, delivering up to 1 A output current with input voltage range 3 V to 20 V, output voltage adjustable from 0.8 V to 17 V, and typical quiescent current of 30 nA in shutdown - used for point-of-load conversion in space-constrained battery-powered instruments.

For engineers reviewing the LMR12010XMKX/NOPB datasheet, LMR12010XMKX/NOPB pinout, LMR12010XMKX/NOPB application, or LMR12010XMKX/NOPB equivalent, key selection criteria include verified 1.6 MHz switching frequency, internal current-mode control with soft-start, thermal shutdown, undervoltage lockout (UVLO), and compatibility with ceramic output capacitors in ultra-compact PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The LMR12010XMKX/NOPB implements constant-frequency current-mode PWM control with an internally compensated error amplifier and 0.8 V reference. Its 1.6 MHz oscillator enables sub-microsecond on-times (as low as 13 ns), supporting stable regulation down to 0.8 V output across the full 3–20 V input range.

It integrates a 300 mΩ NMOS power switch, bootstrap gate-drive circuitry (requiring external BOOST capacitor), pulse-by-pulse current limiting (1.7 A typical), and output overvoltage protection triggered at FB = 1.08 V. Thermal shutdown activates at 165°C junction temperature with hysteresis to ~150°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LMR12010XMKX/NOPB is housed in a 6-pin SOT-23-THIN package (2.90 mm × 1.60 mm × 1.00 mm), optimized for high-density PCB layouts with minimal thermal mass and low parasitic inductance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar step-down regulator applications.

Compared with LMR12010XMKX/NOPB, LMR12008XMKX/NOPB offers identical form-factor and feature set at reduced current capacity, while TPS62231DRVR trades input voltage flexibility and BOOST-based gate drive for higher frequency and smaller package - making LMR12010XMKX/NOPB optimal for wide-input, 1 A, space-constrained industrial applications.

Availability

LMR12010XMKX/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-of-load conversion, battery-powered instrumentation, and industrial distributed power applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for LMR12010XMKX/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 specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management technologies, with leadership in high-efficiency DC/DC conversion and automotive-grade reliability.

The LMR12010XMKX/NOPB belongs to TI's LMR series of monolithic buck regulators, designed specifically for space-constrained, high-density power delivery in industrial, test & measurement, and portable electronics where wide input range and low quiescent current are critical.

FAQ

What is the switching frequency of the LMR12010XMKX/NOPB?

The LMR12010XMKX/NOPB operates at a fixed 1.6 MHz switching frequency, as indicated by the "X" suffix in its part number. This high frequency allows use of small external inductors (e.g., 4.7 µH) and ceramic output capacitors, reducing overall solution size and improving transient response. It is distinct from the 3 MHz LMR12010Y variant, and the frequency is internally set - no external resistor or capacitor is required to configure it.

Does the LMR12010XMKX/NOPB require an external bootstrap capacitor?

Yes, the LMR12010XMKX/NOPB requires an external 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor connected between the BOOST and SW pins. This capacitor provides the gate-drive voltage for the internal NMOS switch during its on-time. Without it, the device cannot properly turn on the high-side switch, resulting in failure to regulate. The capacitor must be placed as close as possible to the BOOST and SW pins to minimize parasitic inductance.

What is the minimum recommended output voltage for the LMR12010XMKX/NOPB?

The minimum recommended output voltage for the LMR12010XMKX/NOPB is 0.8 V, set by its internal 0.800 V feedback reference voltage. Output voltages below 0.8 V are not supported because the feedback comparator cannot regulate accurately below this threshold. For example, a 0.8 V output is achieved with R1 = 0 Ω and R2 = open; all higher outputs use standard resistor-divider calculations based on V_FB = 0.8 V.

How does the enable (EN) pin function on the LMR12010XMKX/NOPB?

The EN pin on the LMR12010XMKX/NOPB controls device operation: applying a logic-high voltage ≥1.8 V enables regulation, while pulling it to ≤0.4 V places the device in shutdown mode with typical quiescent current of 30 nA. The pin must never float or exceed VIN + 0.3 V. Internal pull-down is not provided, so a dedicated resistor or controller GPIO is required to ensure defined state during power-up or reset sequences.

Can the LMR12010XMKX/NOPB drive a synchronous rectifier?

No, the LMR12010XMKX/NOPB is designed for asynchronous operation and requires an external Schottky catch diode (e.g., D1 in typical application schematics). Its SW pin drives only the high-side NMOS switch; there is no complementary low-side driver or timing control for synchronous rectification. Attempting to replace the diode with a MOSFET without external gate control will result in shoot-through or improper conduction - synchronous operation requires a dedicated controller like the TPS543x series or LM511x family.