NXP Semiconductors NX1117CE33Z,115

Overview

NX1117CE33Z,115 from NXP Semiconductors is a fixed-output 3.3 V, ±1.25 % accuracy, low-dropout linear regulator in SOT223 package, delivering up to 1 A output current with thermal shutdown, SOA control, and output current limiting - used as post-regulator for DC-DC converters in USB devices and hard drive controllers.

For engineers reviewing the NX1117CE33Z,115 datasheet, NX1117CE33Z,115 pinout, NX1117CE33Z,115 application, or NX1117CE33Z,115 equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage at 800 mA (≤1.2 V), input voltage range (up to 20 V), quiescent current (5–6 mA), thermal resistance (72 K/W on FR4), and no minimum load requirement for stable regulation.

Technical Context

The NX1117CE33Z,115 implements internal bandgap reference (1.25 V), error amplifier, and pass transistor with Safe Operating Area (SOA) control that dynamically limits output current under high VIN–VOUT conditions to prevent thermal runaway. Its architecture supports fixed-output operation without external feedback components.

It operates across –40 °C to +125 °C ambient temperature, features 62 dB PSRR at 120 Hz, and maintains output stability with 10 μF ceramic output capacitance. Dropout voltage rises predictably with load: 0.95 V at 100 mA, 1.07 V at 800 mA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT223 (SC-73) plastic surface-mounted package with integrated heat sink; 4 leads, standard footprint per Figure 21 (Rev. 2, Dec 2012).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-dropout linear regulator applications.

Compared with TLV1117-33CDR and MCP1703T-3302E/MB, the NX1117CE33Z,115 uniquely balances 1 A output, ±1.25 % accuracy, and SOA protection in SOT223 - making it optimal for industrial USB hubs and HDD controllers where both current and thermal robustness are critical.

Availability

NX1117CE33Z,115 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for USB devices, hard drive controllers, and battery charger management systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for NX1117CE33Z,115 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

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor company headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands, specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications.

The NX1117C/NX1117CE series was designed for high-reliability post-regulation in power-constrained systems - targeting applications where thermal resilience, wide input range, and no-minimum-load operation are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the NX1117CE33Z,115?

The NX1117CE33Z,115 has an absolute maximum input voltage of 20 V, as specified in Table 5 (Limiting Values) of the NXP datasheet Rev. 2. Operation above this voltage risks permanent damage. For reliable long-term use, the recommended maximum is 20 V under all conditions including transients.

Does the NX1117CE33Z,115 require an external capacitor on the output pin?

Yes, the NX1117CE33Z,115 requires a minimum 10 μF ceramic output capacitor (as shown in Figure 19 of the datasheet) for stability and transient response. The device is optimized for low-ESR ceramics; aluminum or tantalum capacitors may cause instability unless their ESR falls within the 0.1–1 Ω range.

What is the dropout voltage of the NX1117CE33Z,115 at full 1 A load?

The NX1117CE33Z,115 dropout voltage is not characterized at exactly 1 A in the datasheet; the maximum specified is 1.2 V at 800 mA (Table 8). At 1 A, dropout exceeds 1.2 V and enters SOA-limited region - actual regulation ceases before reaching 1 A under high VIN–VOUT conditions due to internal SOA control.

Is the NX1117CE33Z,115 compatible with lead-free reflow soldering processes?

Yes, the NX1117CE33Z,115 is qualified for lead-free reflow per JEDEC J-STD-020. Its SOT223 package supports peak reflow temperatures up to 260 °C (Figure 22), and the device is marked "115" indicating tape-and-reel packaging compliant with RoHS and lead-free assembly standards.

How does the SOA control function in the NX1117CE33Z,115 affect its current delivery?

The SOA control in the NX1117CE33Z,115 reduces output current when VIN–VOUT exceeds safe power dissipation limits - for example, limiting to ~1.1 A at VIN = 12 V and VOUT = 3.3 V. This prevents thermal runaway without triggering shutdown, allowing graceful current reduction while maintaining regulation.