Texas Instruments LP38692SDX-5.0

Overview

LP38692SDX-5.0 from Texas Instruments is a 5.0 V fixed-output, 1-A low-dropout CMOS linear regulator in SOT-223-5 package, featuring enable control (EN), remote sense (SNS), ±2.5% output accuracy at 25°C, 450 mV dropout at 1 A (5 V_OUT), and stable operation with 1-µF ceramic output capacitors. It serves as a precision power supply for core logic rails in portable computing and storage systems.

For engineers reviewing the LP38692SDX-5.0 datasheet, LP38692SDX-5.0 pinout, LP38692SDX-5.0 application, or LP38692SDX-5.0 equivalent, key selection criteria include its enable-controlled ON/OFF functionality, remote-sense capability for load-voltage accuracy, thermal shutdown at 160°C, foldback current limiting (450 mA / 1500 mA depending on VIN–VOUT), and guaranteed –40°C to 125°C operation.

Technical Context

The LP38692SDX-5.0 uses a PMOS pass transistor architecture enabling ultra-low ground pin current (55 µA typical at full load) and eliminating DC base drive requirements. Its internal trimmed bandgap reference and error amplifier deliver tight DC regulation across temperature and line/load variations.

It integrates foldback current limiting (thresholds dependent on VIN–VOUT differential), thermal shutdown with 10°C hysteresis, and supports remote sensing via the SNS pin-exclusively implemented in WSON and SOT-223 variants-to compensate for PCB trace IR drop between regulator and load.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-223-5 package (6.50 mm × 3.56 mm body), thermally enhanced with exposed pad (DAP) soldered to PCB ground plane for optimal heat dissipation. Pin 1 = IN, Pin 2 = GND, Pin 3 = OUT, Pin 4 = SNS, Pin 5 = EN.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLS850F0TESA1 and TPS7A2050PDBVR, the LP38692SDX-5.0 uniquely combines 1-A output, enable control, remote sense, and industrial temperature range in SOT-223-making it irreplaceable in high-accuracy, medium-current portable power applications where load-point regulation and power sequencing matter.

Availability

LP38692SDX-5.0 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for hard disk drives, notebook computers, battery-powered devices, portable instrumentation, and medical sensor modules requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for LP38692SDX-5.0 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 and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and portable applications.

The LP38692SDX-5.0 belongs to TI's LP3869x family of low-dropout CMOS linear regulators, designed specifically for high-accuracy, low-noise, and thermally robust power delivery in space- and battery-constrained portable electronics.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for LP38692SDX-5.0 to regulate 5.0 V output?

The LP38692SDX-5.0 requires a minimum input voltage of 5.45 V to maintain regulation at 1 A load, based on its typical 450 mV dropout voltage. At lighter loads, dropout decreases-for example, 45 mV at 0.1 A-allowing operation down to 5.045 V. Input must also exceed 2.7 V for internal circuitry to function, but regulation only begins when VIN ≥ (VOUT + VDO).

Does LP38692SDX-5.0 require an external resistor divider to set output voltage?

No. The LP38692SDX-5.0 is a fixed-output regulator with internally trimmed 5.0 V reference. It does not use external feedback resistors. The SNS pin is for remote sensing only and must be connected directly to the load-side output node-not to a resistor network.

Can the SNS pin of LP38692SDX-5.0 be left unconnected?

No. The SNS pin must be connected to the same net as the OUT pin (local sensing) or to the load-side output node (remote sensing). Leaving it floating violates the datasheet requirement and may cause regulation instability or output inaccuracy. If remote sensing is not needed, tie SNS directly to OUT near the regulator.

What is the maximum allowable power dissipation for LP38692SDX-5.0 in SOT-223 package at 25°C ambient?

Using R_θJA = 68.5°C/W and maximum junction temperature of 125°C, the theoretical maximum power dissipation is (125 − 25) / 68.5 ≈ 1.46 W. At 5.0 V output and 1 A load, power dissipation is (VIN − 5.0) × 1 A. Thus, VIN must remain ≤ 6.46 V to stay within thermal limits at 25°C ambient-derating required at higher temperatures.

Is LP38692SDX-5.0 compatible with ceramic output capacitors smaller than 1 µF?

No. The datasheet specifies a minimum 1-µF ceramic output capacitor for stability across all operating conditions. Using smaller values (e.g., 100 nF or 470 nF) risks oscillation or poor transient response. The 1-µF requirement applies to X5R/X7R dielectrics with ≤500 mΩ ESR; lower-ESR types may require series resistance per layout guidelines.