Microchip Technology MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR
- Part No.:
- MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Package:
- SOT-23-6
- Datasheet:
-
MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR.pdf
- Description:
- IC LNR REG CTRLR 1OUT SOT23-6
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,166
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Product details
Overview
MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR from Micrel is a programmable current-limit µCap LDO regulator controller that forms a high-current, ultra-low-dropout linear regulator when paired with an external P-channel MOSFET. It operates from 1.65V to 5.5V input, delivers ±2% output voltage accuracy over temperature, supports fixed 3.0V output, and enables stable regulation with ceramic capacitors in space-constrained power rails for microprocessor core supplies.
For engineers reviewing the MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR datasheet, MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR pinout, MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR application, or MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR equivalent, this page provides verified pin functions, real-world current-sense resistor design guidance, thermal derating data for multi-FET configurations, and validated alternatives for 3.0V fixed-output linear regulator systems.
Technical Context
The MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR implements a precision bandgap reference (1.235V) and error amplifier to regulate output voltage via external P-MOSFET gate drive. Its current-limit threshold is fixed at 50mV across the IS–IN sense resistor, enabling programmable overcurrent protection independent of load voltage.
It features logic-level enable control (1.2V turn-on threshold), fast startup (<150µs), and operates across –40°C to +125°C junction temperature. The device lacks internal thermal shutdown and relies on external MOSFET thermal management-critical for designs delivering up to 10A with low dropout.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage | Fixed 3.0V ±2% over –40°C to +125°C; eliminates need for external feedback resistors. |
| Input Voltage Range | 1.65V to 5.5V; supports direct regulation from 1.8V, 2.5V, or 3.3V system rails. |
| Current-Limit Threshold | 50mV (typical) between IS and IN pins; sets maximum output current via RSENSE = 50mV / IOUT(MAX). |
| Enable Threshold | 1.2V (ON), 0.2V (OFF); CMOS-compatible active-high control with 20–250mV hysteresis. |
| Quiescent Current | 10–20mA (ON), 15–30µA (OFF); enables low-power shutdown mode for battery-sensitive systems. |
| Package | SOT-23-6 (IttyBitty®); 1.6mm × 2.9mm footprint with 0.95mm height-suitable for dense PCB layouts. |
| Stability | Stable with ≥10µF ceramic output capacitor; no ESR requirements simplify capacitor selection. |
Pinout & Package
Package: IttyBitty® SOT-23-6 (M6), RoHS-compliant, surface-mount, 6-pin plastic package with exposed pad not present.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 IN | Input voltage supply | Connects to main input rail; also ties to IS pin if current limit is disabled. |
| 2 GND | Ground reference | System ground return for internal circuitry and enable logic; must be low-impedance. |
| 3 IS | Current sense input | Senses voltage drop across external sense resistor; 50mV threshold triggers current limit. |
| 4 GATE | P-MOSFET gate driver output | Drives external P-channel MOSFET gate; open-drain structure requires pull-up via MOSFET source. |
| 5 EN | Enable control input | Active-high logic input; floating state is undefined-must be pulled high or low via resistor. |
| 6 OUT | Regulator output feedback node | Connected to drain of external P-MOSFET; closes regulation loop for fixed 3.0V output. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Programmable current limit | Set precisely via external sense resistor (e.g., 10mΩ for 5A), enabling scalable overcurrent protection without redesign. |
| Ultra-low dropout capability | Dropout defined by external P-MOSFET RDS(ON); supports <100mV dropout at 1A with appropriate FET selection. |
| µCap ceramic stability | Operates stably with 10µF X7R ceramic output capacitors-reduces board area and eliminates tantalum reliability concerns. |
| Wide input voltage range | 1.65V minimum input allows direct use with 1.8V logic rails, avoiding intermediate buck stages in low-voltage systems. |
| High-temperature operation | Rated for –40°C to +125°C junction temperature-validated for automotive under-hood and industrial motor-control environments. |
Applications
| Microprocessor Core Supply | Battery-Powered DSP Power |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Providing clean, low-noise 3.0V supply to ARM Cortex-M4 or similar MCU cores requiring tight voltage tolerance and fast transient response. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Regulator controller managing external P-MOSFET to maintain 3.0V output during dynamic load steps up to 2A. Use Value: ±2% output accuracy and fast startup (<150µs) ensure reliable boot and runtime voltage compliance without external supervision. |
Use Scenario: Powering portable audio DSPs (e.g., TI TMS320C55x) from single-cell Li-ion (3.0–4.2V) with minimal dropout and low quiescent current. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Enables low-IQ shutdown (≤30µA) and precise 3.0V regulation during standby and active modes. Use Value: 15–30µA shutdown current extends battery life; ceramic capacitor compatibility avoids electrolytic aging in handheld devices. |
| Industrial PLC I/O Module | Telecom Line Card Bias |
Use Scenario: Generating isolated 3.0V bias for analog front-end ADCs and digital isolators in DIN-rail mounted PLC modules operating at 70°C ambient. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Controller driving parallel P-MOSFETs (e.g., SUB15P01-52 ×2) to deliver 5A with thermal margin at full temperature range. Use Value: –40°C to +125°C rating and no internal thermal shutdown allow predictable external thermal design using heatsink-calculated θJA. |
Use Scenario: Providing stable 3.0V supply to Ethernet PHYs and SerDes interfaces on telecom line cards where EMI and ripple sensitivity are critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Delivers low-noise, fast-transient 3.0V output using ceramic caps-minimizing conducted EMI vs. switching regulators. Use Value: Fast transient response and ±2% accuracy meet GR-1089-CORE immunity and jitter specs for 10/100/1000BASE-T applications. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LDO controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TPS7A4700RGWR | Integrated 1A LDO (not controller); fixed 3.3V only; no current limit programming; 20µVRMS noise. | Replaces discrete controller+FET solution with single-chip 1A regulator-unsuitable for >1.5A or programmable current limit. | Select when board space is critical and output current ≤1A; avoid when >2A or adjustable current limit required. |
| LT3080IMSE#PBF | Adjustable current-source-based LDO controller; 1.2V reference; requires external NPN pass transistor; no fixed 3.0V option. | Supports higher currents (>5A) but needs NPN BJT and emitter resistor; less efficient than P-MOSFET at low dropout. | Select for ultra-low dropout with NPN pass devices or when adjustable output is mandatory; not drop-in for MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR. |
Compared with TPS7A4700RGWR and LT3080IMSE#PBF, the MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR uniquely combines fixed 3.0V output, programmable current limit via sense resistor, and P-MOSFET efficiency-making it optimal for compact, high-current, thermally managed linear regulators where external FET selection drives performance and cost.
Availability
MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microprocessor core supplies, battery-powered DSP power, industrial PLC I/O modules, and telecom line card bias requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and high-reliability production cycles.
Supply support for MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR 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
Micrel Inc. was a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in analog, power management, and timing solutions before its acquisition by Microchip Technology in 2015. Its legacy ICs remain widely deployed in industrial and telecom infrastructure.
The MIC5159 product line was designed as a flexible, high-current LDO controller platform-enabling engineers to optimize efficiency, thermal performance, and cost by selecting best-fit external P-MOSFETs for specific voltage conversion and current requirements.
FAQ
What is the output voltage tolerance of the MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR over temperature?
The MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR guarantees ±2% output voltage accuracy across the full –40°C to +125°C junction temperature range. This specification includes initial tolerance, line regulation, and load regulation effects-verified per Electrical Characteristics table in the official datasheet. The fixed 3.0V output eliminates resistor-divider drift concerns inherent in adjustable regulators.
Can the MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR be used with an N-channel MOSFET instead of a P-channel device?
No-the MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR is specifically designed to drive P-channel MOSFETs via its GATE pin, which sources current to turn on the high-side P-FET. Its architecture does not support N-channel configurations, which require bootstrap or charge-pump gate drive for high-side operation. Using an N-FET would prevent proper regulation and risk damage.
How is the current limit set for the MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR, and what is the typical threshold voltage?
The MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR uses a fixed 50mV current-sense threshold between the IS and IN pins. To set a target maximum output current IOUT(MAX), place a sense resistor RSENSE = 50mV / IOUT(MAX) between IN and IS. For example, a 10mΩ resistor configures 5A current limiting. The threshold exhibits ±10mV variation over temperature and process.
Does the MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR include thermal shutdown protection?
No-the MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR has no internal thermal shutdown circuitry. Thermal protection must be implemented externally via the P-MOSFET's safe operating area (SOA), heatsinking, and/or system-level monitoring. Designers must calculate power dissipation PD = (VIN – VOUT) × IOUT and ensure MOSFET junction temperature stays within limits using θJA and ambient conditions.
Is the MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR compatible with ceramic output capacitors smaller than 10µF?
The MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR is characterized for stability with ≥10µF ceramic output capacitors (X7R, 6.3V). Smaller values may cause instability-especially with high-gate-charge MOSFETs-due to phase margin degradation. If space constraints demand lower capacitance, a 4.7µF X7R plus 10µF tantalum parallel combination has been validated in application schematics for marginal cases.
MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- SOT-23-6
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- Type:
- Positive Fixed
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Current - Supply:
- 10mA
- Voltage - Input:
- 1.65V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- SOT-23-6
MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR 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 MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR reliable?
The price and inventory of MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR?
MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR 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 MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR?
For technical support, including MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR 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 MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR?
All MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR, 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 MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MIC5159-3.0BM6-TR Tags

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LT1575CS8#PBF
Analog Devices Inc.

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RT9008GE
Richtek USA Inc.

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S-816A40AMC-BAPT2U
ABLIC Inc.

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MIC5159YM6-TR
Microchip Technology

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MIC5156YM
Microchip Technology

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MIC5156-3.3YM
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MIC5158YM-TR
Microchip Technology

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MAX8564AEUB+
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated

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LT1573CS8#PBF
Analog Devices Inc.

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UC2834DW
Texas Instruments

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RT9194GE
Richtek USA Inc.

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S-816A33AMC-BAIT2U
ABLIC Inc.
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