Microchip Technology MCP1812BT-012/LB

Overview

MCP1812BT-012/LB from Microchip Technology is a 300 mA ultra-low-quiescent-current LDO regulator with fixed 1.2V output, 250 nA typical IQ, and shutdown capability (5 nA typical ISHDN). It operates from 1.8V to 5.5V input and is stable with a 2.2 µF ceramic output capacitor. Designed for energy harvesting and wearable electronics where battery life exceeds years.

For engineers reviewing the MCP1812BT-012/LB datasheet, MCP1812BT-012/LB pinout, MCP1812BT-012/LB application, or MCP1812BT-012/LB equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, package mapping, thermal performance, shutdown behavior, and real-world use cases in ultra-low-power systems.

Technical Context

This device belongs to the MCP1812X family - the 300 mA variant of Microchip's ultra-low-IQ LDO series. Its architecture features a precision bandgap reference, error amplifier, and foldback current limiting, enabling stable regulation down to 1.2V output while maintaining sub-µA quiescent draw across temperature.

The MCP1812BT-012/LB integrates an active discharge transistor (RDCH = 100 Ω) only in 'A' variants; the 'B' suffix confirms no output discharge, simplifying system-level power sequencing. It supports 4-Lead 1×1 mm UDFN packaging with exposed thermal pad for enhanced thermal dissipation (θJA = 91.05°C/W on JEDEC 4-layer board).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 4-Lead 1×1 mm UDFN with exposed thermal pad (EP). Optimized for space-constrained, thermally sensitive applications such as hearing aids and smart patches.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with XC6210B122MR-G and RP111N121D-TR-F, the MCP1812BT-012/LB uniquely combines 300 mA drive, 4-Lead UDFN with thermal pad, and integrated shutdown in a 1×1 mm footprint - delivering superior thermal performance and system-level power control without external components.

Availability

MCP1812BT-012/LB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for energy harvesting nodes, medical patches, and wearable electronics requiring stable component supply over multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for MCP1812BT-012/LB 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 is a leading provider of microcontrollers, analog devices, and timing solutions, serving automotive, industrial, and consumer markets with high-reliability silicon.

The MCP1812BT-012/LB belongs to Microchip's ultra-low-power LDO family, engineered specifically for battery- and energy-harvesting-powered systems where nanowatt standby current and long-term reliability are mandatory design requirements.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the MCP1812BT-012/LB?

The MCP1812BT-012/LB has an absolute maximum input voltage of +6.0V. However, its recommended operating range is 1.8V to 5.5V. Exceeding 5.5V may cause permanent damage or accelerated aging, especially at elevated temperatures. Always maintain VIN ≤5.5V in normal operation to ensure compliance with the device's specified electrical characteristics and lifetime reliability.

Does the MCP1812BT-012/LB include output discharge functionality?

No, the MCP1812BT-012/LB does not include output discharge. The 'B' suffix in the part number explicitly denotes the no-discharge variant (per Table 1 in DS20006088C). Unlike the 'A' variant (e.g., MCP1812AT-012/LB), this device leaves VOUT floating upon shutdown - preserving voltage on downstream capacitance and avoiding unintended reset or data loss in connected circuitry.

What is the minimum output capacitance required for stability with the MCP1812BT-012/LB?

The MCP1812BT-012/LB requires a minimum of 2.2 µF ceramic (X7R) output capacitance for guaranteed stability across all operating conditions. This value is specific to the MCP1812X series (300 mA variant); using less than 2.2 µF - even with high-ESR alternatives - risks oscillation, poor load transient response, or startup failure, particularly at light loads and elevated temperatures.

Can the MCP1812BT-012/LB operate from a single alkaline cell?

Yes, the MCP1812BT-012/LB can operate from a single alkaline cell (nominal 1.5V, range ~0.9V–1.65V). Its 1.8V minimum input specification means it will not regulate below ~1.8V - so it is suitable only when the cell is fresh or boosted. For full discharge utilization, pair it with a boost converter or select a lower-VIN LDO such as the MCP1703 (1.6V min). At 1.8V input, dropout headroom is marginal but functional at light loads.

What thermal performance can be expected from the MCP1812BT-012/LB in a 4-layer PCB layout?

In a JEDEC-standard 4-layer FR4 board with 1 oz. copper and thermal vias under the exposed pad, the MCP1812BT-012/LB achieves θJA = 91.05°C/W. At 300 mA load and 1.8V input (0.6V dropout), power dissipation is ~180 mW - resulting in ~16°C junction-to-ambient rise above ambient. This enables reliable operation up to +85°C ambient without forced airflow or heatsinking.