Texas Instruments LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB

Overview

LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB from Texas Instruments is a 1.5-A ultra-low-dropout linear regulator in SOT-223 package, delivering fixed 1.8 V output with ±1.5% accuracy at room temperature, 38 mV dropout at 150 mA, and 10 nA shutdown quiescent current - designed for microprocessor core power in space-constrained, battery-sensitive applications.

For engineers reviewing the LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB datasheet, LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB pinout, LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB application, or LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB equivalent, key selection criteria include verified 1.5-A DC output capability, ERROR flag functionality (LP3872-specific), SOT-223 thermal performance (R_θJA = 65.2°C/W), and compatibility with 10 µF minimum output capacitance using tantalum or ceramic dielectrics.

Technical Context

The LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB uses a CMOS-based PMOS pass element enabling load-independent quiescent current and ultra-low dropout operation. Its internal ERROR comparator monitors output voltage with 10% threshold hysteresis and open-drain output, requiring external 10-kΩ pullup.

It operates across −40°C to 125°C junction temperature with integrated overtemperature and overcurrent protection. Shutdown is controlled via CMOS-compatible SD pin with 25 µs turnon delay and 20 µs turnoff delay at 1.5 A load.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-223 (5-pin) package: 6.50 mm × 3.56 mm body size, exposed thermal pad on bottom, rated R_θJA = 65.2°C/W under standard JEDEC PCB conditions.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TSS721AIDR and TPS7A4701RGWR, the LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB uniquely combines 1.5-A capability, integrated ERROR flag, and ultra-low 38-mV dropout in SOT-223 - making it optimal for compact, fault-aware digital core supplies where pin count and thermal profile are constrained.

Availability

LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microprocessor core supplies, GTL bus terminators, DSP power management, battery-powered instrumentation, and other applications requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for LP3872EMP-1.8/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 and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in power management ICs since the 1980s.

The LP387x series was developed to address demand for fast-response, ultra-low-dropout regulators in portable and high-efficiency digital systems - specifically targeting microprocessor, DSP, and bus-termination applications requiring precise 1.8–5.0 V outputs.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB to regulate 1.8 V output?

The LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB requires a minimum input voltage of 2.5 V per datasheet specifications. At 1.5 A load, its dropout is 380 mV, so VIN must be ≥2.18 V to maintain regulation - but the absolute minimum VIN is 2.5 V regardless of load. This ensures safe operation across temperature and process variation, and accommodates the 2.5 V lower limit of the input voltage range specified in SNVS227H.

Does LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB support remote sensing like the LP3875 variant?

No, LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB does not support remote voltage sensing. The SENSE pin is exclusive to the LP3875 family; the LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB regulates voltage only at the OUT pin. Its pinout lacks a SENSE terminal, and the functional block diagram confirms no sense amplifier is present. For remote load regulation, LP3875 or alternative regulators with dedicated sense inputs must be used.

Can the ERROR pin of LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB be left floating?

No, the ERROR pin of LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB must not be left floating. It is an open-drain output requiring a pullup resistor (typically 10 kΩ to VIN) to assert a valid high level when output is in regulation. If unused, the ERROR pin must be connected directly to GND per datasheet guidance - floating operation risks undefined logic states and potential system-level misinterpretation of fault status.

What output capacitor types are validated for stable operation with LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB?

Tantalum capacitors are explicitly recommended for LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB output stabilization due to their ideal ESR range (100 mΩ to 4 Ω) and temperature stability. Ceramic capacitors (X7R/X5R dielectric) are also supported if ESR remains within spec, but Z5U/Y5V types are discouraged due to severe voltage- and temperature-dependent capacitance loss. Minimum capacitance is 10 µF; no upper limit applies.

Is LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes, LP3872EMP-1.8/NOPB is RoHS-compliant and lead-free. The "/NOPB" suffix in the part number explicitly denotes "No Lead (Pb)-Free", confirming compliance with EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and TI's green packaging standards. The device uses matte-tin lead finish and meets JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level (MSL) requirements for SOT-223 packages.