Texas Instruments LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB

Overview

LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output 5.0 V, 1.5 A ultra-low dropout linear regulator in SOT-223 package, featuring 240 mV dropout at full load, ±1.5% output voltage accuracy at 25°C, and an open-drain ERROR flag for output fault detection-designed for microprocessor core power and post-regulation in space-constrained DC/DC systems.

For engineers reviewing the LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB datasheet, LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB pinout, LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB application, or LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout performance at 1.5 A, ERROR flag timing behavior, ceramic capacitor stability envelope, shutdown quiescent current (10 nA), and thermal derating in SOT-223 without heatsink.

Technical Context

The LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB uses a CMOS-based PMOS pass element enabling load-independent quiescent current (4 mA typical at 1.5 A) and ultra-low dropout-24 mV at 150 mA and 240 mV at 1.5 A. Its ERROR pin provides open-drain fault signaling with 10% output undervoltage threshold and built-in hysteresis.

It operates from 2.5 V to 7 V input, supports stable operation with ≥10 µF ceramic or tantalum output capacitance, and requires SD pin pull-up to VIN via 10 kΩ for functional shutdown control. The device includes overtemperature and overcurrent protection with thermal shutdown activation at ~160°C junction temperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-223 (NDC) package: 6.50 mm × 3.56 mm body, thermally enhanced with exposed pad (not electrically connected); suitable for PCBs with limited area and moderate power dissipation (R_θJA = 65.2°C/W, no heatsink).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO regulator applications.

Compared with LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB, TSS721AIPW trades ERROR functionality and 10-nA shutdown for SOIC packaging and broader input range, while TPS7A4700RGWR offers superior noise performance at half the output current and no integrated fault signaling-making LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained 5-V systems needing reliable fault indication.

Availability

LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microprocessor power supplies, GTL bus termination, and SCSI terminator applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing for industrial and embedded programs.

Supply support for LP3852ESX-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 company designing analog ICs, embedded processors, and digital signal solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The LP3852 series belongs to TI's ultra-low dropout linear regulator product line, engineered specifically for high-current, low-voltage microprocessor and bus-termination applications where fast transient response and fault visibility are essential.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB to regulate 5.0 V output?

The LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB requires a minimum input voltage of V_OUT + V_DROPOUT. At 1.5 A load, dropout is 240 mV, so minimum VIN is 5.24 V. At lighter loads (e.g., 150 mA), dropout drops to 24 mV, allowing regulation from 5.024 V. The absolute minimum specified input is 2.5 V, but that only applies for output voltages ≤2.5 V.

Can LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB operate with ceramic output capacitors?

Yes, LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB is explicitly characterized for stability with ceramic output capacitors ≥10 µF. With a 10 µF ceramic input capacitor and 1.5 A load, stable operation is confirmed up to ~150 µF total ceramic output capacitance. ESR must remain below 10 mΩ; X7R or X5R dielectrics are recommended for stable capacitance vs. voltage/temperature.

How does the ERROR pin on LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB behave during shutdown?

When the SD pin is pulled low, the ERROR pin is forced invalid (high-impedance) to conserve power. It does not reflect output status during shutdown. The ERROR flag resumes normal operation only after SD returns high and the regulator re-establishes regulation - typically within 25 µs turn-on delay.

What thermal derating applies to LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB in SOT-223 package without heatsink?

In SOT-223 (NDC), LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB has R_θJA = 65.2°C/W. At 25°C ambient and 1.5 A load with 5.24 V input, power dissipation is ~360 mW, resulting in ~58°C junction rise - well within the −40°C to 125°C rating. Derating begins above ~85°C ambient; maximum continuous current drops to ~1.1 A at 100°C ambient.

Is LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB pin-compatible with other LP385x variants?

LP3852ESX-5.0/NOPB (SOT-223, ERROR pin) is pin-compatible with other LP3852 SOT-223 variants (e.g., LP3852ESX-3.3/NOPB), sharing identical pinout: SD–IN–OUT–ERROR–GND. It is not pin-compatible with LP3855 (SENSE instead of ERROR) or TO-220/TO-263 packages due to different leadframe geometry and thermal pad configuration.