onsemi NCP186BMX300TAG

Overview

NCP186BMX300TAG from onsemi is a 1 A CMOS low-dropout (LDO) regulator with fixed 3.0 V output, 100 mV typical dropout at 1 A, ±1% output voltage accuracy, and operation from 1.8 V to 5.5 V input. It delivers fast transient response and low 48 µV_RMS output noise for powering noise-sensitive analog circuitry in portable imaging systems.

For engineers reviewing the NCP186BMX300TAG datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include dropout performance at 1 A load, thermal shutdown threshold (165°C), EN pin logic thresholds (VENH = 1.0 V, VENL = 0.4 V), and compatibility with 1 µF ceramic output capacitors.

Technical Context

The NCP186BMX300TAG uses a PMOS pass transistor architecture enabling ultra-low quiescent current (90 µA typ.) and no reverse current protection without external diodes. Its adaptive ground current behavior maintains efficiency across load range while supporting stable regulation with minimal 1 µF X7R/X5R ceramic output capacitance.

Unlike the NCP186A variant, this B-version omits active output discharge - confirmed by datasheet Table 1 and Figure 2 block diagram - making it suitable for applications where uncontrolled VOUT collapse during disable is undesirable. Thermal shutdown hysteresis is 20°C, and PSRR reaches 75 dB at 1 kHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

XDFN8 1.2 mm × 1.6 mm, 0.4 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad (EPAD). Package supports high thermal dissipation (θ_JA = 111°C/W) when EPAD is soldered to PCB ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS7A2030PDQNR and MCP1826T-3002E/DB, the NCP186BMX300TAG uniquely balances 1 A output, 100 mV dropout, 48 µV_RMS noise, and 90 µA IQ in a 1.2 mm × 1.6 mm footprint - making it optimal for space-constrained, battery-powered imaging and precision analog systems.

Availability

NCP186BMX300TAG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for mobile camera modules, portable medical sensors, and industrial handheld scanners requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for NCP186BMX300TAG 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

onsemi (formerly ON Semiconductor) is a global semiconductor supplier focused on energy-efficient power management, analog, sensors, and connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and cloud infrastructure markets.

The NCP186 series was designed specifically for portable, battery-powered equipment demanding ultra-low noise, fast transient response, and minimal solution size - targeting camera modules, wearables, and medical sensors where power integrity directly impacts signal quality.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the NCP186BMX300TAG?

The NCP186BMX300TAG has an absolute maximum input voltage rating of 6.0 V, as specified in Table 2 of the datasheet. Operation above 5.5 V violates the recommended operating conditions and risks permanent damage. For reliable long-term use, keep VIN ≤ 5.5 V, especially under thermal stress or high ambient temperatures.

Does the NCP186BMX300TAG require an external resistor divider for its 3.0 V output?

No, the NCP186BMX300TAG is a fixed-output variant - its 3.0 V regulation is internal and does not require external resistors. The FB/ADJ pin must be shorted directly to the OUT pin per Figure 1 and Application Information section. Using a resistor divider would disrupt the factory-trimmed feedback network and cause incorrect output voltage.

How does the absence of output discharge affect system behavior when disabling the NCP186BMX300TAG?

Because the NCP186BMX300TAG is the "B" version (no active discharge), the output voltage decays slowly through the load impedance when EN is pulled low. This avoids abrupt VOUT collapse that could cause latch-up or reset glitches in downstream circuits - a key advantage over the A-version in systems with multiple power domains sharing common reset logic.

Can the NCP186BMX300TAG operate stably with a 0.8 µF effective output capacitance?

Yes, the NCP186BMX300TAG is specified to remain stable with a minimum effective output capacitance of 0.8 µF, as stated in the Applications Information section. However, using the recommended 1.0 µF X7R/X5R ceramic capacitor ensures optimal load transient response and PSRR across temperature and DC bias variations.

What thermal performance can be expected from the NCP186BMX300TAG in a standard 2-layer PCB layout?

In a standard 2-layer PCB with 1 oz copper and moderate ground plane area, the NCP186BMX300TAG exhibits θ_JA ≈ 111°C/W (per Table 3). At 1 A load with 3.1 V input, power dissipation is ~100 mW, resulting in ~11°C junction-to-ambient rise - well within safe limits below the 150°C max junction temperature.