onsemi MC7905BT
- Part No.:
- MC7905BT
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Package:
- TO-220-3
- Datasheet:
-
MC7905BT.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG LINEAR -5V 1A TO220AB
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,293
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Product details
Overview
MC7905BT from onsemi is a fixed-output negative voltage regulator delivering −5.0 V at up to 1.0 A, featuring internal thermal shutdown, short-circuit current limiting, and safe-area compensation for rugged operation in industrial power supplies. It requires no external components for basic regulation and maintains stable output under input ripple up to −35 V with ≥2.0 V headroom.
For engineers reviewing the MC7905BT datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include its −5.0 V output tolerance (±4%), TO-220 package with heatsink-connected Pin 2, dropout voltage of 1.3 V at 1.0 A, and suitability for dual-rail op-amp supplies, current-source configurations, and MECL-compatible systems.
Technical Context
The MC7905BT implements a monolithic bipolar pass transistor with integrated protection circuitry: thermal overload sensing triggers shutdown at +150°C junction temperature, while current-limiting and safe-area compensation dynamically reduce short-circuit current as VIN−VOUT increases. Its internal bias network draws 4.3–8.0 mA input current and delivers 40 µV RMS output noise (10 Hz–100 kHz).
Designed for fixed-voltage negative regulation, it operates across −40°C to +125°C ambient with internally limited power dissipation, relying on external heatsinking (θJA = 65°C/W, θJC = 5.0°C/W) to sustain full 1.0 A output. Ripple rejection is 70 dB at 120 Hz, and line/load regulation are specified at constant junction temperature to isolate heating effects.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | −5.0 V ±4% (−4.8 V to −5.2 V at TJ = +25°C), stable across 5 mA–1.0 A load and −7.0 V to −25 V input range |
| Maximum Output Current | 1.0 A continuous, limited by thermal shutdown above +150°C junction temperature |
| Dropout Voltage | 1.3 V at 1.0 A and +25°C - defines minimum input-to-output differential required for regulation |
| Ripple Rejection | 70 dB at 120 Hz - suppresses AC ripple from unregulated DC inputs in linear supply designs |
| Thermal Resistance | θJC = 5.0°C/W - enables efficient heat transfer from junction to heatsink when Pin 2 is thermally coupled |
| Operating Temperature | −40°C to +125°C junction - supports automotive and industrial environments without derating |
| Input Voltage Range | −35 V maximum (−40 V for −24 V variants) - sets absolute safe operating limit before device damage |
Pinout & Package
MC7905BT uses the TO-220 package (Case 221AB), with the metal tab (heatsink surface) electrically connected to Pin 2. The package is Pb-free (G-suffix) and rated for infinite heatsink mounting.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pin 1 | Ground | Reference node for output voltage; must be common to input and output grounds in standard applications |
| Pin 2 | Input | Negative input terminal; heatsink surface is internally tied to this pin - requires insulated mounting if heatsink is grounded |
| Pin 3 | Output | Regulated −5.0 V output; connects directly to load with low-inductance path to minimize instability |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| No external components required | Enables drop-in replacement in legacy linear supplies without redesigning compensation networks |
| Internal thermal overload protection | Automatically disables output above +150°C junction temperature, preventing permanent damage during transient overloads |
| Internal short-circuit current limiting | Clamps output current to safe levels during faults, eliminating need for external fusing in many applications |
| Safe-area compensated output transistor | Reduces short-circuit current as VIN−VOUT increases, protecting pass device during high-differential-voltage faults |
| 2% and 4% output tolerance options | MC7905BT's ±4% tolerance balances cost and precision for non-critical industrial rails |
Applications
| Operational Amplifier Dual Supply | MECL Logic Power Rail |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Providing symmetrical ±15 V rails for precision op-amps in test equipment and signal conditioning circuits. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Negative regulator paired with MC7815 to generate stable −15 V rail referenced to common ground. Use Value: Eliminates need for center-tapped transformer or isolated secondaries; ripple rejection >70 dB ensures low-noise analog performance. | Use Scenario: Powering ECL/MECL logic families requiring tightly regulated negative supply voltages. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed −5.0 V source meeting MECL III voltage requirements (VEE = −5.2 V nominal). Use Value: Internal safe-area compensation prevents latch-up during fast logic transitions with high dI/dt transients. |
| Current Source for Sensor Biasing | Industrial Control System Auxiliary Rail |
Use Scenario: Generating precise 200 mA constant current for RTD excitation or photodiode biasing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Configured as current regulator using external resistor (R = 5.0 V / IO) per Figure 8. Use Value: Quiescent current (4.3 mA typ.) adds minimal error; output voltage headroom allows operation down to −10 V input. | Use Scenario: Supplying −5.0 V auxiliary power to PLC I/O modules, relay drivers, and analog front-ends. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary negative rail in DIN-rail mounted power distribution units with wide input range (−35 V max). Use Value: −40°C to +125°C operating range and thermal shutdown ensure reliability in unventilated enclosures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar negative voltage regulation applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM7905CT | ±2% output tolerance, higher quiescent current (6.5 mA typ.), identical TO-220 pinout and protection features | Better initial accuracy but lower efficiency in battery-backed systems | Select when tighter output tolerance is required and thermal margin permits higher IQ |
| MC7905CTG | Same onsemi device family, ±4% tolerance, but rated for 0°C to +125°C (vs. −40°C to +125°C for MC7905BT) | Not suitable for extended cold-start automotive or outdoor industrial use | Choose only for cost-sensitive commercial-grade applications with controlled ambient |
Compared with LM7905CT and MC7905CTG, the MC7905BT offers wider temperature coverage (−40°C to +125°C) and lower quiescent current, making it preferable for harsh-environment designs where thermal robustness and standby efficiency are critical.
Availability
MC7905BT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, test instrumentation, and dual-rail analog power supplies requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for MC7905BT 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 manufacturer specializing in energy-efficient power management, analog, and sensor solutions for automotive, industrial, and cloud infrastructure markets.
The MC7900 series was designed as a rugged, drop-in complement to the MC7800 positive regulators, targeting industrial and telecom power systems requiring reliable fixed negative voltage rails with integrated fault protection.
FAQ
What is the maximum input voltage rating for the MC7905BT?
The MC7905BT has an absolute maximum input voltage rating of −35 V for devices with nominal output voltages from −5.0 V to −18 V. Exceeding this voltage risks permanent damage, regardless of operating conditions. This rating is defined in the Maximum Ratings table of the official datasheet and applies across the full −40°C to +125°C junction temperature range.
Does the MC7905BT require input and output capacitors for stable operation?
While the MC7905BT can operate without external capacitors in low-current, low-noise applications, input bypassing (≥0.33 µF tantalum or ceramic) is recommended when connected via long traces to the power supply filter. Output capacitance (≥1.0 µF) improves transient response and stability - especially with large load capacitance or high-frequency switching loads - per the Applications Information section of the MC7905BT datasheet.
How does the MC7905BT's thermal shutdown behave under sustained overload?
The MC7905BT activates thermal shutdown at +150°C junction temperature, disabling the output until the die cools below the hysteresis threshold (~135°C). During sustained overload, it cycles on/off - a behavior confirmed in the Thermal Overload Protection section of the datasheet. This protects the device but may cause system instability; proper heatsinking (θJA ≤ 65°C/W) is required to avoid repeated cycling at 1.0 A load.
Can the MC7905BT be used in parallel to increase output current?
No - the MC7905BT is not designed for parallel operation. Its output voltage tolerance (±4%) and lack of current-sharing features mean mismatched units will not share load evenly, risking thermal runaway in one device. For higher current, use the current-boost configuration shown in Figure 9 of the MC7905BT datasheet with an external pass transistor.
What is the significance of the "T" suffix in MC7905BT?
The "T" suffix in MC7905BT denotes the TO-220 package variant (Case 221AB), as defined in the Ordering Information section of the datasheet. It distinguishes this through-hole, heatsink-mountable version from D2PAK (D2T) variants. The "B" indicates ±4% output voltage tolerance, and "G" confirms Pb-free lead finish - all verified in the official onsemi marking diagrams and packaging specifications.
MC7905BT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- onsemi
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-220-3
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Output Configuration:
- Negative
- Output Type:
- Fixed
- Number of Regulators:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- -35V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- -5V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- -
- Voltage Dropout (Max):
- 1.3V @ 1A (Typ)
- Current - Output:
- 1A
- Current - Quiescent (Iq):
- -
- Current - Supply (Max):
- -
- PSRR:
- 70dB (120Hz)
- Control Features:
- -
- Protection Features:
- Over Current, Over Temperature
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-220
MC7905BT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MC7905BT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MC7905BT 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 MC7905BT reliable?
The price and inventory of MC7905BT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MC7905BT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MC7905BT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MC7905BT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MC7905BT?
MC7905BT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MC7905BT 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 MC7905BT?
For technical support, including MC7905BT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MC7905BT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MC7905BT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MC7905BT 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 MC7905BT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MC7905BT?
All MC7905BT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MC7905BT, 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 MC7905BT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MC7905BT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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