Microchip Technology MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ

Overview

MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ from Micrel is a fixed-output 1.8V, 500mA low-dropout linear regulator in a 1mm × 1mm Thin DFN package, featuring ±1% output accuracy, 260mV dropout at full load, and 38µA quiescent current. It delivers stable power to ultra-compact portable electronics such as GPS modules and medical wearables where board space and battery life are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ datasheet, MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ pinout, MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ application, or MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ equivalent, key selection criteria include its µCap compatibility with 2.2µF ceramic output capacitors, auto-discharge functionality on disable, internal enable pulldown for floating-control safety, and –40°C to +125°C operating junction temperature range.

Technical Context

The MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ employs a CMOS-based LDO architecture with integrated thermal shutdown and current limiting, enabling robust operation under transient load and fault conditions. Its high PSRR (80dB @ 100Hz) and low output noise (80µV_RMS) support noise-sensitive analog and RF circuitry.

It operates across 2.5V–5.5V input range with TTL-compatible enable logic (1.2V high threshold), and uses an internal 4MΩ pull-down on EN to ensure default-off behavior during processor boot-up-eliminating need for external biasing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 4-pin 1mm × 1mm Thin DFN (TDFN-4, MT), RoHS-compliant, halogen-free mold compound, NiPdAu lead finish, exposed ePad (EP) for thermal enhancement-requires connection to GND for optimal thermal performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP1826-1802E/DB and TPL7407LDR, the MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ uniquely combines ±1% accuracy, auto-discharge, internal EN pull-down, and µCap stability in a 1mm² footprint-making it optimal for space-constrained, battery-powered systems demanding precise, sequenced, and low-leakage power delivery.

Availability

MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical devices, GPS receivers, digital still cameras, and industrial handheld scanners requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ 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 ICs before its acquisition by Microchip Technology in 2015; its LDO portfolio emphasizes ultra-small-footprint, low-IQ, and high-PSRR regulators for portable electronics.

The MIC5524 product line was designed specifically for space- and power-constrained battery-operated systems-delivering high-performance regulation in 1mm × 1mm DFN packages without compromising accuracy, transient response, or protection features.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ to maintain regulation at 500mA load?

The MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ requires a minimum input voltage of 2.06V to sustain 1.8V output at 500mA, based on its 260mV dropout specification. Below this, the output voltage will drop proportionally. Input must remain within the absolute maximum rating of 6V and operational range of 2.5V–5.5V for guaranteed performance and reliability.

Does MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ require an external pull-down resistor on the EN pin?

No, the MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ includes an internal 4MΩ pull-down resistor on the EN pin, ensuring the device remains disabled when the enable signal is left floating-such as during microcontroller reset or boot-up. This eliminates the need for external components and simplifies layout in space-constrained designs.

Can MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ operate without an output capacitor?

No, MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ requires a minimum 2.2µF ceramic output capacitor (X5R or X7R dielectric) for stability. Unlike some legacy LDOs, it is not stable under no-load or zero-capacitance conditions-even though it remains in regulation with no load when properly decoupled. Omitting C_OUT risks oscillation and unpredictable behavior.

What is the purpose of the exposed ePad (EP) on MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ, and how should it be connected?

The exposed ePad (EP) on MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ serves as the primary thermal conduction path from the silicon die to the PCB. It must be soldered directly to a solid GND copper pour to achieve the specified θ_JA = 250°C/W and sustain 500mA continuous output. Leaving the ePad unconnected or floating degrades thermal performance and may trigger thermal shutdown under load.

How does the auto-discharge feature of MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ function during shutdown?

When the EN pin is driven low, the MIC5524-1.8YMT-TZ activates an internal 25Ω NFET between VOUT and GND, actively discharging external output capacitors. This ensures rapid VOUT decay-critical for safe power sequencing, preventing back-powering of upstream circuits, and meeting reset timing requirements in multi-rail systems.