onsemi MC7808ACT
- Part No.:
- MC7808ACT
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Package:
- TO-220-3
- Datasheet:
-
MC7808ACT.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG LINEAR 8V 1A TO220AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,182
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Product details
Overview
MC7808ACT from onsemi is a fixed-output linear voltage regulator delivering +8.0 V at up to 1.0 A, featuring internal thermal shutdown, short-circuit current limiting, and safe-area compensation for robust local regulation in industrial and automotive power supplies. It operates with a 2.0 V dropout voltage at 1.0 A and maintains ±3% output tolerance over temperature and load.
For engineers reviewing the MC7808ACT datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, this page provides verified specifications, TO-220 package layout, real-world use cases in embedded power rails, and validated alternative parts for design flexibility and supply continuity.
Technical Context
The MC7808ACT implements a monolithic series pass transistor architecture with built-in protection circuitry including foldback current limiting and thermal foldback that reduces output current as junction temperature rises above +150°C. Its internal safe-area compensation dynamically adjusts short-circuit current based on VCE to prevent second breakdown.
It requires no external components for basic operation but benefits from a 0.33 µF input bypass capacitor when located >2 inches from bulk filter capacitance. Output stability is maintained without an output capacitor, though a ≥0.1 µF ceramic improves transient response.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | +8.0 V nominal, ±3% tolerance (7.7–8.3 V) at TJ = 25°C and IO = 500 mA - ensures stable logic/IC rail compliance. |
| Output Current | 1.0 A continuous, 2.2 A peak - supports mid-power analog circuits and microcontroller subsystems. |
| Dropout Voltage | 2.0 V at IO = 1.0 A and TJ = 25°C - mandates minimum 10.0 V input for regulated 8 V output under full load. |
| Ripple Rejection | 62 dB at 120 Hz, VIN = 11.5–18 V - suppresses line-frequency noise from unregulated DC supplies. |
| Quiescent Current | 3.3–6.0 mA - enables low-noise operation without significant standby power penalty. |
| Thermal Shutdown | Activates at TJ ≥ +150°C - prevents permanent damage during overload or inadequate heatsinking. |
| Short-Circuit Limit | 0.2 A typical at VIN = 35 V - protects against sustained output faults while allowing brief inrush. |
Pinout & Package
MC7808ACT uses the standard TO-220 package (Case 221AB), with the metal tab electrically connected to Pin 2 (Ground). Heatsinking is required for continuous 1.0 A operation at ambient temperatures >50°C.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pin 1 | Input | Unregulated DC input (10.5–23 V recommended); must exceed output by ≥2.0 V under worst-case ripple. |
| Pin 2 | Ground | Common reference for input and output; also connects to heatsink surface - requires isolation if heatsink is chassis-grounded. |
| Pin 3 | Output | Regulated +8.0 V output; low-impedance source capable of driving capacitive loads up to 10,000 µF with proper layout. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| No external components required | Enables drop-in replacement in legacy 78xx-based designs without redesigning support circuitry. |
| Internal thermal overload protection | Automatically disables output above +150°C junction temperature, resuming operation after cooldown - eliminates need for external thermal sensors. |
| Safe-area compensated output transistor | Reduces short-circuit current as VCE increases, preventing destructive second breakdown during fault conditions. |
| 1.5% to 4% output voltage tolerance options | MC7808ACT specifies ±3% (7.7–8.3 V), suitable for non-critical analog rails and digital I/O supplies where tight regulation is not mandatory. |
| Pb-free and RoHS-compliant | Meets environmental compliance requirements for industrial and automotive end equipment without lead-free solder compatibility concerns. |
Applications
| Industrial PLC I/O Module Power | Automotive Body Control Unit (BCU) |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Powers isolated 8 V analog sensor interface circuitry within a DIN-rail mounted programmable logic controller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary local regulator converting 24 VDC field bus to clean 8 V rail for op-amps and ADC front-ends. Use Value: Internal short-circuit protection prevents system-wide failure during wiring faults; 62 dB ripple rejection maintains signal integrity in noisy factory environments. |
Use Scenario: Supplies 8 V to window lift motor drivers and door lock actuators in a centralized body control module. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-voltage LDO replacement for legacy 7808 in automotive sub-systems requiring AEC-Q100 alignment. Use Value: Thermal shutdown prevents latch-up during intermittent high-current actuator pulses; TO-220 package allows direct mounting to metal chassis for passive cooling. |
| Legacy Embedded System Retrofit | Test Equipment Auxiliary Rail |
|
Use Scenario: Replaces obsolete 7808 variants in aging medical monitoring hardware requiring long-term component availability. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Drop-in compatible fixed regulator maintaining identical pinout and electrical behavior as original design. Use Value: Same 2.0 V dropout and 1.0 A rating ensure no PCB or firmware changes needed; Pb-free construction meets updated regulatory requirements. |
Use Scenario: Generates stable 8 V bias for precision current sources in benchtop multimeters and calibration tools. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise, low-drift voltage reference source with <10 µV/V output noise and −0.4 mV/°C tempco. Use Value: Output noise of 10 µV/V (10 Hz–100 kHz) minimizes measurement uncertainty; load regulation ≤1.4 mV ensures accuracy across 5 mA–1.0 A range. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-output linear regulator applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM7808CDT/NOPB (TI) | Same TO-220-3 package, ±2% output tolerance (7.84–8.16 V), higher quiescent current (4.2–8.0 mA), lower ripple rejection (55 dB @120 Hz). | Better initial accuracy but reduced noise immunity; less suitable for high-ripple industrial inputs. | Select when tighter initial voltage tolerance is prioritized over ripple suppression and thermal margin. |
| NCV7808BDTAR4G (onsemi) | AEC-Q100 qualified, wider operating temperature range (−40°C to +150°C), same electrical specs, DPAK-3 surface-mount package. | Designed for automotive under-hood applications; not pin-compatible with TO-220 footprint. | Choose for new automotive designs requiring PPAP support and surface-mount assembly; requires PCB redesign. |
Compared with LM7808CDT/NOPB, MC7808ACT offers superior ripple rejection and lower quiescent current, making it more robust in noisy industrial settings; versus NCV7808BDTAR4G, it trades automotive qualification for through-hole ease-of-use and serviceability in industrial retrofits.
Availability
MC7808ACT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, automotive BCU subsystems, and legacy embedded system maintenance requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.
Supply support for MC7808ACT 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
onsemi is a global semiconductor supplier focused on energy-efficient innovation for automotive, industrial, cloud, and IoT applications, with leadership in power management and analog solutions.
The MC7800 series was designed as a rugged, drop-in replacement for legacy 78xx regulators, targeting cost-sensitive, high-reliability applications where simplicity, thermal resilience, and long-lifecycle support are critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum input voltage for MC7808ACT?
The absolute maximum input voltage for MC7808ACT is 35 V DC, per the datasheet's Maximum Ratings table. However, for reliable continuous operation at 1.0 A, the recommended input range is 10.5 V to 23 V to maintain adequate power dissipation margin and avoid exceeding the 15 W power limit with standard heatsinking.
Does MC7808ACT require an output capacitor for stability?
No, MC7808ACT is internally compensated and does not require an output capacitor for stability. However, adding a ≥0.1 µF ceramic capacitor at the output significantly improves transient response to load steps - especially important in microcontroller or sensor applications with pulsed current demands.
Is MC7808ACT pin-compatible with older 7808 variants?
Yes, MC7808ACT uses the industry-standard TO-220-3 package with identical pinout (Pin 1 = Input, Pin 2 = Ground, Pin 3 = Output) and matches the electrical behavior of legacy 7808 regulators, enabling direct replacement without PCB modification in most designs.
What thermal performance can be expected from MC7808ACT at 1.0 A?
With a typical TO-220 heatsink (RJA ≈ 65°C/W), MC7808ACT reaches ~115°C junction temperature at 1.0 A with 12 V input - safely below the +150°C thermal shutdown threshold. Derating is required above 70°C ambient; full 1.0 A output is only sustainable up to ~50°C ambient with standard heatsinking.
Can MC7808ACT be used in adjustable configurations?
Yes, MC7808ACT can be configured as an adjustable regulator using external resistors and a Zener diode, as shown in Figure 10 of the datasheet. However, doing so forfeits its factory-trimmed 8 V accuracy and introduces additional error sources - it is recommended only for prototyping or specialized voltage offsets.
MC7808ACT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-220-3
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Output Configuration:
- Positive
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Regulators:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 35V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- 8V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Voltage Dropout (Max):
- 2V @ 1A (Typ)
- Current - Output:
- 1A
- Current - Quiescent (Iq):
- 6 mA
- Current - Supply (Max):
- -
- PSRR:
- 62dB (120Hz)
- Control Features:
- -
- Protection Features:
- Over Temperature, Short Circuit
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-220
MC7808ACT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC7808ACT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC7808ACT on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MC7808ACT reliable?
The price and inventory of MC7808ACT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC7808ACT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC7808ACT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC7808ACT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC7808ACT?
MC7808ACT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC7808ACT order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MC7808ACT?
For technical support, including MC7808ACT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC7808ACT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC7808ACT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC7808ACT products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MC7808ACT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC7808ACT?
All MC7808ACT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC7808ACT, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MC7808ACT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC7808ACT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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