Texas Instruments LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB

Overview

LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB from Texas Instruments is an adjustable ultra-low-dropout linear regulator delivering up to 0.8 A output current with 24 mV typical dropout at 80 mA, ±1.5% output voltage accuracy, and 10 nA shutdown quiescent current. It operates from 2.5 V to 7 V input and integrates a SENSE pin for remote load regulation-ideal for microprocessor core supplies where point-of-load accuracy is critical.

For engineers reviewing the LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB datasheet, LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB pinout, LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB application, or LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout performance under 0.8-A load, thermal behavior in DDPAK/TO-263 package, SENSE-enabled remote regulation capability, and ERROR flag response to 10% output undervoltage.

Technical Context

The LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB uses a CMOS-based PMOS pass element enabling ultra-low dropout and load-independent quiescent current. Its internal error amplifier compares feedback from the SENSE pin (or OUT pin if SENSE is tied to OUT) against an internal 1.22-V reference to regulate output voltage.

It features active overtemperature and overcurrent protection with thermal shutdown, short-circuit limiting at 2.3 A peak, and an open-drain ERROR flag that asserts low when output drops ≥10% below nominal-hysteresis ensures clean recovery. Shutdown is controlled via a logic-level SD pin requiring external 10-kΩ pullup.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB is housed in a thermally enhanced 5-pin DDPAK/TO-263 package (10.16 mm × 8.42 mm) with exposed thermal pad for PCB heat sinking. The package supports >2 W continuous dissipation with proper copper area and airflow.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB, TPS7A4700RGWR offers superior noise performance but sacrifices adjustability and SENSE functionality, while MCP1826T-ADJ/DC provides lower-cost integration in smaller packages but lacks critical protection and remote-sense features required for high-reliability power delivery.

Availability

LP3874ES-ADJ/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 LP3874ES-ADJ/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 consumer markets.

The LP387x family was engineered specifically for high-current, ultra-low-dropout regulation in battery-powered and thermally constrained systems-emphasizing fast transient response, remote load accuracy, and robust protection.

FAQ

What output voltage range does the LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB support?

The LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB supports an adjustable output voltage range from 1.22 V to 6 V, set by an external resistor divider connected between OUT, SENSE (or OUT), and GND. The internal reference is 1.22 V ±1%, enabling precise customization for diverse core and I/O rail requirements without needing multiple fixed-output variants.

How does the SENSE pin improve regulation in the LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB?

The SENSE pin in the LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB enables remote voltage sensing at the load, allowing the regulator to compensate for IR drop across PCB traces. When connected directly to the load's VCC node, it maintains ±1.5% output accuracy at the point of use-even with trace resistances up to 100 mΩ-whereas standard regulators like the LP3871 only regulate at the OUT pin.

What is the minimum input voltage required for the LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB to regulate a 1.8-V output?

For a 1.8-V output, the LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB requires a minimum input voltage of 2.5 V, as specified in the Recommended Operating Conditions. This is because the absolute minimum VIN is defined as the greater of [VOUT(NOM) + VDROPOUT] or 2.5 V-and since VDROPOUT at light load is ~24 mV, the 2.5-V floor governs for outputs below ~2.47 V.

Does the LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB require an external pullup resistor on the SD pin?

Yes, the LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB requires a 10-kΩ pullup resistor from the SD pin to VIN for reliable startup and normal operation. The datasheet specifies this as mandatory unless driven by a rail-to-rail CMOS output capable of actively pulling high and low-otherwise, the device may fail to enable or exhibit erratic shutdown behavior.

Can the ERROR flag of the LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB be used without external components?

No-the ERROR flag of the LP3874ES-ADJ/NOPB is an open-drain output and must be pulled high with a 10-kΩ to 1-MΩ resistor to VIN. If unused, the ERROR pin must be connected directly to GND per datasheet guidance; leaving it floating risks undefined logic states and potential EMI coupling.