Microchip Technology MCP1812AT-010/LT

Overview

MCP1812AT-010/LT from Microchip Technology is a 300 mA ultra-low quiescent current (250 nA typical) fixed-output 1.0 V low-dropout linear regulator in a 3-lead SOT-23 package, featuring output discharge during shutdown and stable operation with only 2.2 µF ceramic output capacitance - designed for energy harvesting and long-life battery-powered systems where sleep-mode power budget is critical.

For engineers reviewing the MCP1812AT-010/LT datasheet, MCP1812AT-010/LT pinout, MCP1812AT-010/LT application, or MCP1812AT-010/LT equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs (e.g., 400 mV dropout at 300 mA), thermal resistance (θ_JA = 211.33°C/W), shutdown leakage (10 nA typ), output discharge capability, and real-world use cases in wearable medical devices and ultra-low-power microcontroller subsystems.

Technical Context

The MCP1812AT-010/LT implements a PMOS pass transistor architecture enabling ultra-low IQ operation and fast start-up (400 µs delay from SHDN). Its internal error amplifier and feedback network maintain ±4% output voltage accuracy over load (0–300 mA), input (2.4–5.5 V), and temperature (–40°C to +85°C) variations.

It integrates foldback current limiting (100 mA at R_LOAD = 1 Ω), overcurrent protection, and an active discharge transistor (R_DCH = 100 Ω) that pulls VOUT to GND when SHDN = GND - a feature exclusive to MCP1812A variants, distinguishing it from MCP1812B.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 3-Lead SOT-23 (JEDEC MO-178AA), 2.92 mm × 1.3 mm × 1.0 mm, surface-mount, lead-free and RoHS compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP1812AT-010/OT, the MCP1812AT-010/LT offers superior thermal performance (211 vs. 301°C/W) for same-power applications; versus XC6210B102MR-G, it provides critical output discharge and 5× lower shutdown current - essential for zero-leakage system-level power gating.

Availability

MCP1812AT-010/LT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for energy harvesting nodes, wearable medical sensors, and industrial wireless sensor networks requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term manufacturability and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MCP1812AT-010/LT 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

Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog, and Flash-IP solutions, serving automotive, industrial, consumer, and communications markets with high-reliability silicon and development tools.

The MCP1811/1812 family was designed specifically for ultra-low-power, battery-critical applications - emphasizing nanoscale quiescent current, minimal external components, and robust operation across wide temperature and load ranges.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the MCP1812AT-010/LT?

The MCP1812AT-010/LT has an absolute maximum input voltage rating of +6.0 V. However, its specified operating input voltage range is 2.4 V to 5.5 V when delivering 300 mA output current. Exceeding 5.5 V may cause permanent damage or violate safe operating area limits, even briefly.

Does the MCP1812AT-010/LT require an external resistor divider to set output voltage?

No, the MCP1812AT-010/LT is a fixed-output device with factory-trimmed 1.0 V regulation. It contains an internal precision voltage reference and feedback network - no external resistors are needed, reducing BOM count and layout complexity.

Can the MCP1812AT-010/LT be used with a 1 µF output capacitor?

No - the MCP1812AT-010/LT requires a minimum 2.2 µF ceramic (X7R) output capacitor for guaranteed stability. Using 1 µF may cause oscillation or poor transient response, as confirmed in DS20006088C Section 4.2 and Table 1 AC/DC specifications.

Is output discharge active during normal operation or only in shutdown mode?

Output discharge is active only when the SHDN pin is driven low (≤20% VIN). During normal operation (SHDN ≥70% VIN), the discharge transistor is off and VOUT remains regulated. This behavior is specific to the 'A' variant (MCP1812A), confirmed in Table 1 and Figure 1-1 functional block diagram.

What is the thermal resistance (θ_JA) of the MCP1812AT-010/LT in its SOT-23 package?

The MCP1812AT-010/LT in the 3-lead SOT-23 package has a thermal resistance θ_JA of 211.33°C/W when mounted on a JEDEC-standard 4-layer FR4 board with 1 oz. copper and no thermal vias, per DS20006088C page 6.