Texas Instruments LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB

Overview

LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB from Texas Instruments is a 2.5-V, 0.8-A ultra-low-dropout linear regulator in DDPAK/TO-263 (KTT) package, featuring 240 mV dropout at full load, ±1.5% output voltage accuracy, and integrated SENSE pin for remote load regulation. It delivers stable power to microprocessor cores and GTL/SSTL bus terminators under 2.5–7 V input.

For engineers reviewing the LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB datasheet, LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB pinout, LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB application, or LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout performance at 0.8 A, shutdown quiescent current (10 nA), ERROR flag threshold (10% VOUT), SENSE-enabled load regulation, and thermal resistance (RθJA = 40.3°C/W).

Technical Context

The LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB uses a CMOS-based PMOS pass element enabling ultra-low dropout and load-independent quiescent current. Its internal error amplifier compares feedback from either OUT (LP3871) or SENSE (LP3874) to a precision bandgap reference, delivering 0.04% load regulation and 0.02% line regulation.

It integrates active overcurrent limiting with thermal shutdown, an open-drain ERROR flag with 5% hysteresis referenced to VOUT, and a logic-controlled SD pin requiring external 10-kΩ pullup. The device operates across −40°C to +125°C junction temperature with 100 µV_RMS output noise (10 Hz–100 kHz).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB is housed in a 5-pin DDPAK/TO-263 (KTT) package with exposed thermal pad (10.16 mm × 8.42 mm), optimized for high-power dissipation in industrial and embedded applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB, TPS7A4700RGWR offers superior noise performance but sacrifices SENSE-based load regulation and fails to match the 10-nA shutdown current; MCP1826T-2502E/DC provides higher current but omits critical system-monitoring features and thermal protection, increasing design risk in mission-critical applications.

Availability

LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microprocessor core supplies, GTL+/SSTL bus terminators, and battery-powered post-regulators requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

Supply support for LP3874ES-2.5/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 designing analog ICs, embedded processors, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The LP387x series was developed specifically for high-efficiency, low-noise linear regulation in space-constrained, thermally demanding applications - emphasizing ultra-low dropout, remote sensing, and robust fault signaling for digital system power rails.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB to regulate 2.5 V output?

The LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB requires a minimum input voltage of 2.5 V, but stable regulation demands VIN ≥ VOUT + VDROPOUT. With 240 mV typical dropout at 0.8 A, the practical minimum is 2.74 V. At lighter loads (e.g., 80 mA), dropout drops to 24 mV, allowing operation down to 2.524 V input while maintaining regulation.

How does the SENSE pin on LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB improve regulation accuracy?

The SENSE pin on LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB enables remote voltage sensing at the load, closing the feedback loop at the point-of-load instead of at the regulator's OUT pin. This eliminates voltage drop across PCB traces - for example, compensating for 80 mV loss across 100 mΩ trace resistance at 0.8 A - ensuring ±10 mV accuracy at the actual load terminal.

Can LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB be used without connecting the ERROR pin?

Yes - the ERROR pin on LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB may be left unconnected only if tied directly to GND, as specified in the datasheet. Leaving it floating risks undefined behavior; pulling it high via 10-kΩ resistor activates fault reporting. When unused, grounding the ERROR pin disables the function safely and prevents leakage-induced noise coupling.

What thermal considerations apply to LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB in DDPAK package?

LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB in DDPAK (KTT) has RθJA = 40.3°C/W. At 0.8 A with 2.74 V input (0.24 V dropout), power dissipation is 192 mW - resulting in ~8°C junction rise above ambient. For continuous 0.8 A operation at 85°C ambient, junction temperature stays below 125°C. Thermal pad soldering to a 2-in² copper pour is mandatory for rated performance.

Does LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB support reverse current protection?

LP3874ES-2.5/NOPB does not include active reverse current protection. Its internal PMOS pass device contains a parasitic body diode that conducts if VOUT > VIN. The datasheet permits up to 200 mA continuous or 1 A peak reverse current - sufficient for most back-drive scenarios but requiring external Schottky diode blocking if bidirectional isolation is essential in the system design.