Analog Devices Inc. LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF

Overview

LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a -3V fixed-output, negative low-dropout linear regulator delivering up to 1.5A output current with 310mV typical dropout voltage at full load, 60µVRMS output noise (10Hz–100kHz), and <1µA shutdown quiescent current. It operates across –1.8V to –30V input range and is used in precision instrumentation power rails requiring stable, ultra-low-noise negative bias.

For engineers reviewing the LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF datasheet, LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF pinout, LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF application, or LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed –55°C to 125°C operating junction temperature, precision current limit with foldback, reverse output protection, ceramic capacitor stability (≥10µF), and thermally enhanced 12-lead MSOP package with exposed IN pad.

Technical Context

The LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF implements a precision bandgap reference-based error amplifier driving a PNP pass transistor, enabling fast transient response and tightly regulated –3V output despite wide input variation. Its internal architecture includes foldback current limiting activated when |VIN – VOUT| ≥ 8V and thermal shutdown with hysteresis for robust fault handling.

Quiescent current remains well-controlled in dropout (1.1mA typical), and shutdown logic accepts both positive and negative thresholds (–1.34V to +1.21V), supporting flexible system-level control. The device is stable with 10µF ceramic output capacitors without ESR requirements, simplifying layout and reducing BOM count.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF uses the thermally enhanced 12-lead plastic MSOP package (MSE) with exposed IN pad (Pin 13) soldered to PCB for optimal thermal performance (θ_JA = 37°C/W). Pin 1 is IN, Pin 2 is IN, Pin 3 is IN, Pin 4 is IN, Pin 5 is SHDN, Pin 6 is GND, Pin 7 is OUT, Pin 8 is OUT, Pin 9 is OUT, Pin 10 is OUT, Pin 11 is SENSE/ADJ (configured as SENSE for fixed –3V version), Pin 12 is GND.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LT3015IMSE-3#PBF and LT3015EMSE-3#PBF, the LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF provides verified operation down to –55°C with 100% production testing, making it the sole choice for aerospace, downhole, or arctic-deployed systems where cold-start reliability is non-negotiable.

Availability

LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for precision instrumentation, industrial process control, and aerospace power management requiring stable component supply across extreme temperature ranges.

Supply support for LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF 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

Analog Devices acquired Linear Technology in 2017 and maintains its high-performance analog product lines with rigorous qualification standards.

The LT3015 series belongs to Linear's precision negative LDO family, designed specifically for noise-sensitive analog and mixed-signal systems needing clean, stable negative rails with robust fault protection and wide temperature capability.

FAQ

What is the guaranteed minimum input voltage for LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF to maintain regulation at full 1.5A load?

The LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF requires a minimum input voltage of –3.5V to sustain –3V output at –1.5A load while staying within dropout specifications. This is derived from the 310mV typical dropout voltage plus the –3V output, resulting in –3.31V worst-case; the datasheet specifies –3.5V as the guaranteed minimum for full-load regulation across temperature.

Does LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF require an external resistor divider to set the output voltage?

No. The LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF is a fixed –3V output variant; its SENSE pin (Pin 11) is internally connected to OUT, eliminating the need for external feedback resistors. Only the adjustable LT3015 (without suffix) requires an external divider between OUT, SENSE, and GND.

How does the shutdown functionality of LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF behave with negative logic signals?

The LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF supports true bipolar shutdown: applying ≤ –1.34V to SHDN (Pin 5) turns the regulator on, while ≥ +1.21V turns it off. This allows direct interfacing with negative logic gates or microcontroller GPIOs without level-shifting circuitry, preserving signal integrity in mixed-polarity systems.

Can LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF be used with a 4.7µF ceramic output capacitor?

No. The LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF requires a minimum 10µF output capacitance for guaranteed stability per the datasheet. Using 4.7µF may cause oscillation or poor transient response. A 10µF or larger X7R/X5R ceramic capacitor with appropriate voltage rating is mandatory for reliable operation.

What thermal derating applies to LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF in a 2-layer PCB with 1in² copper pour?

With a 2-layer board and 1in² copper pour connected to the exposed IN pad (Pin 13), the LT3015MPMSE-3#PBF achieves θ_JA ≈ 45°C/W. At 125°C max junction and 85°C ambient, maximum continuous output current derates to approximately –1.1A to maintain T_J ≤ 125°C-consult the thermal curves in the LT3015 datasheet for exact derating based on layout.