onsemi MC78M06CDT

Overview

MC78M06CDT from onsemi is a 500 mA, 6.0 V fixed-output linear voltage regulator in DPAK-3 (TO-252) package, featuring internal thermal shutdown, short-circuit current limiting, and safe-area compensation for rugged local regulation. It delivers stable 6.0 V ±2.5% output across 5.0 mA–500 mA load, with 2.0 V dropout and 59 dB ripple rejection at 100 mA/120 Hz - used in industrial power supplies and embedded control modules.

For engineers reviewing the MC78M06CDT datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, this page provides verified electrical specs, thermal performance data, PCB layout guidance for DPAK-3 copper area, and validated alternatives for 6 V linear regulation in automotive-qualified and commercial-grade designs.

Technical Context

The MC78M06CDT implements a monolithic three-terminal series pass architecture with PNP-based output transistor, integrated bandgap reference, and error amplifier. Its safe-area compensation dynamically reduces short-circuit current as input-to-output differential increases, preventing second breakdown under fault conditions.

Thermal protection activates at +150°C junction temperature, and internal current limiting caps peak output at 350 mA under short-circuit (VI = 35 V), while maintaining 700 mA peak capability under transient loads at TJ = 25°C. Input bias current remains ≤6.0 mA across VI = 9.0–25 V and IO = 5–350 mA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DPAK-3 (TO-252) plastic surface-mount package with exposed thermal pad connected to Pin 2 (GND). Heatsink surface is electrically tied to ground, requiring direct PCB copper connection for thermal performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-output linear regulator applications.

Compared with MC78M06BDTRKG, the MC78M06CDT trades extended temperature range for lower cost in commercial applications; versus LM78M06CDT, it offers slightly lower PSRR but shares identical pinout, thermal behavior, and PCB layout requirements.

Availability

MC78M06CDT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, medical instrumentation, and point-of-sale terminal designs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MC78M06CDT 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 (formerly ON Semiconductor) is a global semiconductor supplier focused on energy-efficient electronics, delivering silicon solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, and IoT applications.

The MC78M00 series was designed as a half-current variant of the MC7800 family to serve cost-sensitive, space-constrained applications needing robust local regulation without external components - targeting industrial controls and automotive body electronics.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the MC78M06CDT?

The MC78M06CDT supports a maximum input voltage of 35 V DC under normal operating conditions, as specified in its Absolute Maximum Ratings table. Exceeding this voltage risks permanent damage even with thermal shutdown active. For reliable operation, input should be limited to ≤24 V in most designs to maintain sufficient dropout margin and avoid excessive power dissipation.

Does the MC78M06CDT require an input bypass capacitor?

Yes, the MC78M06CDT requires a minimum 0.33 µF tantalum or low-ESR ceramic capacitor placed directly across Pins 1 and 2 (Input–GND) to ensure stability, especially when input traces exceed 2 inches or when driving capacitive loads >10 µF. This capacitor suppresses high-frequency oscillation and improves transient response - omission may cause output ripple or regulation failure.

Can the MC78M06CDT be used in automotive applications?

The MC78M06CDT is rated for 0°C to +125°C junction temperature and is not AEC-Q100 qualified. For automotive applications requiring qualification, use the NCV78M06BDTRKG (−40°C to +125°C, AEC-Q100 Grade 2) or MC78M06BDTRKG (−40°C to +125°C, non-automotive qualified but extended temp). The MC78M06CDT remains suitable for cabin-mounted consumer electronics within vehicles.

What is the thermal resistance of the MC78M06CDT in DPAK-3 package?

The MC78M06CDT in DPAK-3 (Case 369C) has a junction-to-air thermal resistance (θJA) of 92°C/W with standard PCB mounting (1 in² copper), and junction-to-case (θJC) of 5.0°C/W. To achieve full 500 mA output, PCB copper area must be ≥2.5 in² with thermal vias to inner layers - insufficient copper causes thermal shutdown above ~300 mA at TA = 70°C.

How does the MC78M06CDT handle short-circuit conditions?

The MC78M06CDT limits short-circuit output current to approximately 350 mA when VI = 35 V, thanks to internal current limiting. Simultaneously, safe-area compensation reduces this limit as VI−VO increases, preventing second breakdown. Thermal shutdown engages if junction temperature exceeds +150°C, providing redundant protection - both features allow safe, repeatable fault clearing without device degradation.