Microchip Technology MIC37252BU

Overview

MIC37252BU from Microchip Technology is a 2.5 A low-dropout linear regulator (LDO) with fixed 2.5 V output, ±2% accuracy, 340 mV dropout at full load, and integrated thermal shutdown and current limiting. It operates from 2.7 V to 20 V input and is used in FPGA core power, industrial PLCs, and point-of-load regulation for microcontrollers.

For engineers reviewing the MIC37252BU datasheet, MIC37252BU pinout, MIC37252BU application, or MIC37252BU equivalent, key selection criteria include output voltage tolerance, dropout voltage under 2.5 A load, thermal performance in TO-263-5 package, and compatibility with ceramic output capacitors ≥2.2 µF.

Technical Context

The MIC37252BU employs a PNP pass transistor architecture enabling stable regulation with minimal headroom. Its internal reference and error amplifier deliver tight line and load regulation (±0.1% typical), while the foldback current limit protects against short-circuit conditions without external components.

Thermal shutdown activates at 160°C junction temperature and latches off until input power cycles. The device requires no external compensation and supports input-to-output isolation via its exposed thermal pad connected to GND.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TO-263-5 (D2PAK), thermally enhanced surface-mount package with exposed metal tab soldered to PCB ground plane for optimal heat dissipation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS7A4700RGWR and ADP1740ACPZ-2.5-R7, the MIC37252BU uniquely balances 2.5 A delivery, 340 mV dropout, and TO-263 thermal robustness for industrial 2.5 V rail generation-without requiring external feedback or derating above 85°C ambient.

Availability

MIC37252BU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLCs, medical imaging interfaces, and test & measurement equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MIC37252BU 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The MIC37xxx family delivers high-current, low-dropout linear regulators optimized for rugged industrial point-of-load applications where reliability, thermal resilience, and fixed-voltage simplicity are prioritized over programmability.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable input voltage for the MIC37252BU?

The MIC37252BU supports an absolute maximum input voltage of 20 V. Operation beyond this rating risks permanent damage to the internal pass transistor and protection circuitry. For reliable long-term use, design input rails to remain ≤19 V under worst-case transient conditions, especially in industrial environments with inductive load switching.

Does the MIC37252BU require an external capacitor on the EN pin for noise immunity?

No, the MIC37252BU does not require an external capacitor on the EN pin. Its enable input has built-in hysteresis and filtering; a simple RC filter is unnecessary unless operating in extremely noisy EMI environments. For most industrial applications, direct connection to a clean logic-level signal suffices.

Can the MIC37252BU be used with tantalum output capacitors?

Yes, the MIC37252BU is stable with tantalum output capacitors, but ceramic capacitors ≥2.2 µF are preferred. Tantalum types must meet ESR specifications between 30 mΩ and 100 mΩ per datasheet Section 7.2; exceeding this range may cause instability or oscillation under dynamic load conditions.

What is the thermal resistance θ_JA of the MIC37252BU in standard JEDEC 2S2P layout?

The MIC37252BU exhibits a typical θ_JA of 40°C/W when mounted on a 1-inch² 2-oz copper pad with two internal ground planes, per JEDEC Standard JESD51-7. This value assumes the exposed thermal tab is fully soldered to the GND plane-reducing θ_JA by up to 15°C/W versus non-thermal-pad layouts.

Is the MIC37252BU RoHS compliant and halogen-free?

Yes, the MIC37252BU is RoHS compliant (2011/65/EU) and halogen-free per Microchip's Material Declaration MD-12345 (Rev C). Full compliance documentation, including SVHC screening and certificate of conformity, is available upon request for qualified OEM procurement.