onsemi NCV5501DT33G

Overview

NCV5501DT33G from onsemi is an automotive-grade fixed-output LDO voltage regulator delivering 3.3 V at up to 500 mA with ±2.9% output voltage accuracy, 230 mV dropout at full load, and operation from −40°C to +125°C ambient. It uses a PNP pass transistor for low-dropout performance and integrates thermal shutdown and short-circuit protection. This device is used in post-SMPS regulation for engine control units and ADAS domain controllers.

For engineers reviewing the NCV5501DT33G datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include its AEC-Q100 qualification, DPAK-3 package thermal performance, fixed 3.3 V output without enable control, and stability with low-cost ceramic capacitors under automotive load transients.

Technical Context

The NCV5501DT33G implements a bandgap-referenced error amplifier driving a PNP series pass transistor, enabling ultra-low dropout (230 mV @ 500 mA) while minimizing ground current (10 mA @ 500 mA). Its architecture omits enable logic-unlike NCV5500 variants-making it a simplified, cost-optimized solution for always-on rails.

Thermal shutdown activates at 150°C junction temperature, and internal current limiting caps output at 500–900 mA depending on input-output differential. The device achieves 75 dB ripple rejection at 120 Hz and maintains stability with 1–10 µF ceramic output capacitors across its full operating range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DPAK-3 (Case 369C) surface-mount package with exposed tab for thermal dissipation; 6.10 mm × 6.54 mm footprint, 2.28 mm height, and 2.29 mm lead pitch. Tab is internally connected to GND for enhanced thermal conduction to PCB copper.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with NCV5501DT33G, NCV8170BMT33T2G offers better dropout at reduced current, while TLV73333PDBVR provides higher accuracy and lower quiescent current but sacrifices automotive temperature range and output capability-making NCV5501DT33G the optimal balance for demanding 500 mA, high-temp automotive rails.

Availability

NCV5501DT33G is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive power management, ADAS subsystems, and industrial control systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for NCV5501DT33G 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 (Nasdaq: ON) is a global semiconductor supplier focused on energy-efficient electronics for automotive, industrial, cloud, medical, and IoT applications.

The NCV5500/5501 family was designed specifically for automotive power rails requiring AEC-Q100 qualification, low dropout, and robust protection-targeting ECU, ADAS, and body electronics where reliability under harsh conditions is non-negotiable.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage for NCV5501DT33G?

The absolute maximum input voltage for NCV5501DT33G is +16 V, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. However, the recommended operating input voltage is 2.5 V minimum (or Vout + VDO, whichever is higher) up to 16 V. For reliable operation at 500 mA output, Vin must be ≥3.53 V to maintain regulation given the 230 mV dropout. Exceeding 16 V risks permanent device damage.

Does NCV5501DT33G have an enable pin?

No, NCV5501DT33G does not include an enable pin. It is part of the NCV5501 series, which uses the DPAK-3 package and omits enable functionality-unlike the NCV5500 series in DPAK-5 or SOIC-8 packages. The NCV5501DT33G operates continuously when powered; on/off control must be implemented externally via input switching or upstream PMIC sequencing.

What output capacitor value is required for stable operation of NCV5501DT33G?

NCV5501DT33G is stable with ceramic output capacitors ranging from 1 µF to 10 µF (X5R or X7R dielectric), as confirmed in Figures 17–20 of the datasheet. A 4.7 µF capacitor is typical for general-purpose use. Unlike older LDOs, it imposes no minimum ESR requirement, simplifying design and reducing cost versus tantalum or aluminum electrolytic solutions.

Is NCV5501DT33G pin-compatible with other regulators in the NCV5500 family?

No, NCV5501DT33G is not pin-compatible with NCV5500 variants due to fundamental package and pinout differences: NCV5501DT33G uses DPAK-3 (3 pins: Vin, GND, Vout), while NCV5500DT33RKG uses DPAK-5 (5 pins including EN and ADJ). Swapping them requires PCB redesign. Always verify mechanical and electrical compatibility using the official onsemi package drawings before substitution.

What thermal performance can be expected from NCV5501DT33G in a standard 2-layer PCB layout?

In a standard 2-layer PCB with the DPAK-3 tab soldered to a 650 mm² copper pour (1 oz thickness), NCV5501DT33G achieves RJA ≈ 60°C/W per the datasheet. At 500 mA output with 5 V input (3.3 V drop × 0.5 A = 0.85 W dissipation), junction temperature rise is ~51°C above ambient-keeping TJ well below the 150°C shutdown threshold even at +125°C ambient. Larger copper areas or thermal vias further improve performance.