Texas Instruments LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB

Overview

LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB from Texas Instruments is a 1.5A ultra-low-dropout linear regulator with fixed 1.8V output, CMOS-based architecture, 38mV dropout at 150mA, ±1.5% output voltage accuracy, and integrated error flag for power-good monitoring - designed for microprocessor core supplies and low-voltage bus terminators.

For engineers reviewing the LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB datasheet, LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB pinout, LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB application, or LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout performance under 1.5A load, shutdown quiescent current (15µA), error flag threshold (−10% VOUT), thermal protection behavior, and SOT-223-5 package compatibility with PCB layout constraints for high-current Kelvin connections.

Technical Context

The LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB uses a PMOS pass element with 240mΩ typical R_DS(on), enabling ultra-low dropout operation independent of load current via CMOS biasing. Its error flag comparator monitors output regulation with 10% hysteresis and open-drain output requiring external 10kΩ pull-up.

It operates from 2.5V to 7.0V input, supports −40°C to +125°C junction temperature, and integrates overtemperature (165°C shutdown) and overcurrent protection. The device delivers stable 1.5A DC output with 0.04% load regulation and 150µV_rms broadband noise (10Hz–100kHz).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-223-5 surface-mount package with exposed thermal pad (pin 3 is VOUT; pin 5 is GND; pin 4 is ERROR; pins 1 and 2 are SD and VIN respectively). Thermal resistance θ_JA = 90°C/W with 0.5in² 1oz copper area.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPL7407LDR and TPS7A0518PDBVR, the LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB uniquely combines 1.5A output, 38mV dropout, and integrated error flag in SOT-223-5-making it the only option among the three capable of powering 1.8V microprocessor cores with robust fault reporting and thermal resilience.

Availability

LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microprocessor core supplies, GTL+ bus terminators, and DSP power rails requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing for industrial and automotive-grade programs.

Supply support for LP3962ESX-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 leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management ICs, with decades of expertise in high-reliability linear regulation and precision voltage references.

The LP3962 series belongs to TI's ultra-low-dropout LDO portfolio, engineered specifically for noise-sensitive, high-current digital applications-including microprocessor, DSP, and memory subsystems-where regulation accuracy, transient response, and thermal robustness are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB?

The LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB has an absolute maximum input voltage rating of +7.5V, but its specified operating input range is 2.5V to 7.0V. Operation above 7.0V may exceed safe operating area limits and is not guaranteed per datasheet specifications. For reliable long-term use, keep VIN ≤7.0V under all conditions, including transients.

Does LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB require an external resistor network to set output voltage?

No - LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB is a fixed-output variant with internally trimmed 1.8V regulation. Unlike the adjustable LP3965-ADJ, it contains no feedback resistors or adjustment pins. The output voltage is factory-set and does not require external components for programming.

Can the ERROR pin of LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB be left floating?

No - the ERROR pin is an open-drain output and must be pulled high with a 10kΩ–1MΩ resistor to VIN or another valid logic-high rail. Leaving it floating results in undefined logic state and unreliable power-good signaling. If unused, connect ERROR directly to GND per TI's recommendation.

How does thermal performance differ between SOT-223-5 and TO-220-5 packages for LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB?

The SOT-223-5 package has θ_JA = 90°C/W (with 0.5in² copper), while TO-220-5 achieves θ_JA = 50°C/W under identical conditions. Thus, at 1.5A load and 25°C ambient, SOT-223-5 junction temperature rises ~135°C above ambient versus ~75°C for TO-220-5 - making TO-220 preferable for sustained high-power operation without heatsinking.

Is LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB compatible with ceramic output capacitors?

No - the LP3962ESX-1.8/NOPB requires output capacitor ESR between 0.2Ω and 5Ω for loop stability. Standard ceramic capacitors have ESR <10mΩ and will cause oscillation. Use low-ESR tantalum (e.g., 33–100µF) or aluminum polymer capacitors meeting the ESR specification; ceramics may be added in parallel only if total effective ESR remains within range.