Microchip Technology MIC5512-1.8YMT-TR

Overview

MIC5512-1.8YMT from Micrel is a fixed-output 1.8V, 300mA low-dropout linear regulator in a 6-pin 1.6mm × 1.6mm Thin DFN package, featuring ±1% initial output accuracy, 160mV dropout at full load, and auto-discharge functionality activated on disable - ideal for powering core logic rails in space-constrained portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the MIC5512-1.8YMT datasheet, MIC5512-1.8YMT pinout, MIC5512-1.8YMT application, or MIC5512-1.8YMT equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 300mA output under 2.5V–5.5V input, ultra-low 38µA ground current at light load, zero-off-mode shutdown current (<1µA), stability with 1µF ceramic output capacitors, and thermal performance up to +125°C junction temperature.

Technical Context

The MIC5512-1.8YMT implements a CMOS-based LDO architecture with internal N-channel pass transistor, enabling low dropout and high PSRR (65dB at 1kHz). Its enable pin is active-high with no internal pull-down - requiring external biasing to avoid floating states.

Auto-discharge is implemented via an internal 25Ω NFET between VOUT and GND when EN is low, ensuring rapid capacitor discharge without external circuitry. The device operates across –40°C to +125°C junction temperature and remains stable with no-load conditions, critical for CMOS RAM keep-alive applications.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 6-pin 1.6mm × 1.6mm Thin DFN (MT) with exposed thermal pad (ePad) - RoHS-compliant, halogen-free, NiPdAu lead finish. Requires ePad soldered to GND plane for optimal thermal performance (θJA = 92.4°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MIC5512-1.8YMT, MIC5514-1.8YMT adds EN pull-down for robustness in uncontrolled enable environments, while XC6219B182MR-G trades size and discharge capability for slightly lower quiescent current - making MIC5512-1.8YMT optimal for miniaturized, sequenced systems needing rapid output discharge.

Availability

MIC5512-1.8YMT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphones, medical wearables, digital still cameras, and industrial handheld terminals requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MIC5512-1.8YMT 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 analog and mixed-signal semiconductor company headquartered in San Jose, CA, specializing in power management, timing, and interface solutions before its acquisition by Microchip Technology in 2015.

The MIC5512/14 family was designed specifically for battery-powered portable electronics requiring ultra-small LDOs with auto-discharge, low IQ, and guaranteed 300mA output in thermally efficient DFN packages.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for MIC5512-1.8YMT?

The absolute maximum input voltage (VIN) for MIC5512-1.8YMT is 6V, but the recommended operating range is 2.5V to 5.5V. Exceeding 6V risks permanent damage. Operation within the specified 2.5V–5.5V range ensures compliance with all electrical characteristics including dropout, accuracy, and PSRR as documented in the April 2013 Revision 1.1 datasheet.

Does MIC5512-1.8YMT include an internal pull-down resistor on the EN pin?

No, MIC5512-1.8YMT does not include an internal pull-down resistor on the EN pin. Its EN pin is CMOS-based and must be actively driven high or low; leaving it floating may cause indeterminate output behavior. In contrast, the MIC5514-1.8YMT variant includes a 4MΩ internal pull-down - a key functional distinction between the two part numbers.

Can MIC5512-1.8YMT operate stably with no load connected to VOUT?

Yes, MIC5512-1.8YMT remains stable and in regulation with zero load current - a verified feature confirmed in the Application Information section of the datasheet. This makes MIC5512-1.8YMT suitable for always-on backup rails such as those powering real-time clocks or SRAM retain circuits without requiring dummy loads or additional compensation.

What output capacitor value and type are required for stable operation of MIC5512-1.8YMT?

MIC5512-1.8YMT requires a minimum 1µF ceramic output capacitor with X5R or X7R dielectric. Y5V and Z5U types are explicitly discouraged due to excessive capacitance loss over temperature. The design is optimized for 1µF; larger values do not improve stability or transient response and may degrade startup time.

What is the thermal resistance (θJA) of the MIC5512-1.8YMT package, and how does it affect maximum ambient temperature?

The MIC5512-1.8YMT in its 1.6mm × 1.6mm Thin DFN package has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θJA) of 92.4°C/W. At 300mA load with 0.8V input-output differential, power dissipation is ~240mW, limiting maximum ambient temperature to approximately 103°C for safe operation at TJ = 125°C - assuming minimum footprint layout per the datasheet's PCB recommendations.