Texas Instruments LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB

Overview

LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output 5.0 V, 500 mA low-dropout linear regulator in a 16-pin SOIC package, featuring 470 mV typical dropout at full load, 450 μA quiescent current, and integrated reverse-battery protection - designed for battery-powered systems requiring stable voltage under varying input conditions.

For engineers reviewing the LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB datasheet, LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB pinout, LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB application, or LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 500 mA output current, ±0.75% output voltage accuracy over temperature, logic-level shutdown capability, dropout detection flag, and compatibility with 10 μF ceramic output capacitance.

Technical Context

The LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB integrates a precision 1.23 V bandgap reference, error amplifier, PNP pass transistor, and dual comparators (dropout detection and auxiliary) in a single die. Its feedback architecture supports both internal fixed-voltage configuration (via VTAP–FB and OUT–SENSE shorting) and external adjustment.

It implements thermal shutdown and current limiting at ~1.5 A, features open-collector error and comparator outputs requiring external pull-ups, and provides separate Analog Ground (AGND) and Power Ground (GND) pins to support remote sensing and minimize IR drop errors in precision applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB uses a 16-pin SOIC (Package D0016A), with exposed thermal pad not electrically connected. GND pins (1, 2, 15, 16) serve dual roles as power return and heatsinking paths; AGND (Pin 3) must be tied to system ground even when remote sensing is unused.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-dropout regulator applications.

Compared with TLV70750PDBVR and TPS7A2050PDQNR, the LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB uniquely combines 500 mA output, integrated dropout flag, accessible reference, and reverse-battery protection - making it optimal for robust, feature-rich embedded power management where diagnostics and fault resilience are mandatory.

Availability

LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered instrumentation, industrial sensor nodes, automotive body electronics, and medical diagnostic devices requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for LP2960IM-5.0/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 and embedded processing solutions, with over 90 years of innovation in power management ICs and precision analog components.

The LP2960 product line was engineered for high-reliability, micropower linear regulation in portable and harsh-environment systems - emphasizing low dropout, low IQ, integrated protection, and diagnostic signaling for mission-critical power rails.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB to maintain regulation at 500 mA load?

The LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB requires a minimum input-to-output differential of 470 mV (typical) at 500 mA load. Therefore, with a nominal 5.0 V output, VIN must remain ≥5.47 V to sustain regulation. This value increases slightly at temperature extremes and under heavy transient loads, so design margin should include worst-case 800 mV dropout per datasheet limits.

Can LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB operate with a 10 μF ceramic output capacitor, and what ESR requirement applies?

Yes, LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB is stable with a 10 μF ceramic output capacitor for its 5.0 V version, provided the capacitor's ESR remains below 0.7 Ω across the full operating temperature range (−40°C to +125°C). Aluminum electrolytics are discouraged due to ESR rise at low temperatures; X7R/X5R ceramics or solid tantalums meeting this ESR spec are recommended.

How does the ERROR pin on LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB function, and what external components are needed?

The ERROR pin on LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB is an open-collector output that pulls low when VOUT drops >5% from nominal (i.e., below 4.75 V for 5.0 V output). It requires an external pull-up resistor - TI recommends 100 kΩ to 1 MΩ connected to VOUT. Pulling up to an external supply may cause false HIGH states during startup; tying to VOUT ensures correct logic behavior across all operating conditions.

Does LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB support remote voltage sensing, and how is it implemented?

Yes, LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB supports remote sensing via dedicated SENSE and AGND pins. To implement: route SENSE directly to the load's power input point, tie AGND to system ground near the load, and keep the AGND–GND connection low-impedance. This compensates for voltage drop across PCB traces or connectors, improving load regulation accuracy by eliminating IR errors up to ~100 mV.

Is reverse-battery protection active when the shutdown pin (SD) of LP2960IM-5.0/NOPB is tied directly to VIN?

No - reverse-battery protection is disabled if SD is tied directly to VIN. The absolute maximum rating specifies SD must not go more than 0.3 V below ground; connecting SD to VIN bypasses the internal protection diode. To retain reverse-battery protection, a pull-up resistor (20–100 kΩ) must be placed between SD and VIN, ensuring SD remains within safe voltage limits during polarity reversal.