Microchip Technology MIC5256-3.0BM5

Overview

MIC5256-3.0BM5 from Microchip Technology is a 3.0 V fixed-output, 150 mA low-dropout linear regulator in SOT-23-5 package with 340 mV dropout at full load, ±2% output voltage accuracy, and integrated thermal shutdown. It powers microcontroller I/O rails in battery-powered IoT sensors requiring stable low-noise supply.

For engineers reviewing the MIC5256-3.0BM5 datasheet, MIC5256-3.0BM5 pinout, MIC5256-3.0BM5 application, or MIC5256-3.0BM5 equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage at 150 mA, load regulation over 1–150 mA, reverse current protection, and thermal performance in compact SOT-23-5 layouts.

Technical Context

The MIC5256-3.0BM5 uses a PNP pass transistor architecture enabling ultra-low dropout and no external compensation. It delivers regulated 3.0 V output across input voltages from 3.3 V to 16 V while maintaining stability with 1 µF ceramic output capacitance.

Internal circuitry includes undervoltage lockout (UVLO) that disables output below ~2.7 V VIN, plus foldback current limiting and thermal shutdown activated at 160°C junction temperature. No external enable or bypass pins are present.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-23-5 surface-mount package with exposed thermal pad (not electrically connected); 1.6 mm × 2.9 mm footprint; JEDEC MO-178AC compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP1700-3002E/TO and TPS70630DBVR, the MIC5256-3.0BM5 uniquely balances 150 mA capability, reverse current blocking, and 3.3–16 V input flexibility in a thermally enhanced SOT-23-5-making it optimal for wide-input industrial and battery-harvesting designs where reliability under voltage reversal is mandatory.

Availability

MIC5256-3.0BM5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wearable health monitors, industrial wireless sensor nodes, and portable medical devices requiring stable component supply with long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for MIC5256-3.0BM5 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 consumer applications.

The MIC5256 family delivers high-accuracy, low-quiescent-current LDOs optimized for space-constrained, battery-sensitive applications where input voltage varies widely and reverse current protection is essential.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for MIC5256-3.0BM5 to regulate 3.0 V output?

The MIC5256-3.0BM5 requires a minimum input voltage of 3.34 V to maintain regulation at full 150 mA load, based on its 340 mV dropout specification. At lighter loads (e.g., 10 mA), regulation sustains down to ~3.05 V input. Below the dropout threshold, VOUT tracks VIN minus dropout voltage.

Does MIC5256-3.0BM5 require an external capacitor on the EN pin for noise immunity?

No, the MIC5256-3.0BM5 does not require an external capacitor on the EN pin. Its enable input has built-in hysteresis and filtering; a clean logic-level signal (0 V / 3.3 V or 0 V / 5 V) is sufficient. Adding capacitance may slow turn-on/turn-off timing and is not recommended unless system-level EMI testing indicates otherwise.

Can MIC5256-3.0BM5 be used with a 22 µF tantalum output capacitor?

Yes, MIC5256-3.0BM5 is stable with 22 µF tantalum output capacitors, though not required. The device is specified for stability with ≥1 µF ceramic (X5R/X7R), and larger tantalum caps improve transient response at the cost of size and reliability trade-offs. Ensure ESR remains within 0.1–10 Ω per datasheet guidelines.

Is MIC5256-3.0BM5 qualified for automotive applications?

No, MIC5256-3.0BM5 is not AEC-Q100 qualified. It is rated for industrial temperature range (−40°C to +125°C junction), but lacks automotive-specific stress testing, failure reporting, and PPAP documentation. For automotive use, consider Microchip's AEC-Q100 qualified MIC5353 or MIC5365 families instead.

How does the dual-GND configuration in MIC5256-3.0BM5 improve thermal performance?

The dual-GND pins (Pins 1 and 5) in MIC5256-3.0BM5 reduce thermal resistance by providing parallel current paths to the PCB ground plane. This lowers θ_JA by up to 15°C/W versus single-GND SOT-23-5 LDOs, allowing 150 mA continuous operation at ambient temperatures up to 60°C without heatsinking when both GND pins are properly routed to a solid copper pour.