Microchip Technology TC1173-2.8VOATR

Overview

TC1173-2.8VOATR from Microchip Technology Inc. is a fixed-output CMOS low dropout (LDO) voltage regulator delivering 2.8 V at up to 300 mA, with ±0.5% output accuracy, 240 mV typical dropout at full load, and 50 µA typical supply current. It serves as a precision post-regulator in battery-powered portable electronics requiring ultra-low noise and shutdown control.

For engineers reviewing the TC1173-2.8VOATR datasheet, TC1173-2.8VOATR pinout, TC1173-2.8VOATR application, or TC1173-2.8VOATR equivalent, key selection criteria include its ERROR flag for low-battery detection, Bypass input for 260 nV/√Hz output noise reduction, MSOP-8 package footprint, and 0.05 µA shutdown current - all critical for space-constrained, long-life embedded systems.

Technical Context

The TC1173-2.8VOATR uses a CMOS pass element enabling stable regulation from 0 to 300 mA without supply current increase, unlike bipolar LDOs. Its internal feed-forward compensation ensures fast transient response to load steps, while thermal and overcurrent protection circuits activate at 150°C junction temperature and ~550 mA short-circuit current.

It features an open-drain ERROR output asserting low when VOUT falls >5% below 2.8 V (i.e., ≤2.66 V), configurable as either a low-battery warning or processor RESET signal via external RC timing. The Bypass pin accepts a 470 pF capacitor to reduce reference noise, lowering output noise to 260 nV/√Hz at 1 kHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TC1173-2.8VOATR is housed in an 8-pin MSOP package (3.0 mm × 3.0 mm × 1.1 mm), optimized for high-density PCB layouts and thermal performance (θ_JA ≈ 200°C/W). Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP1700-2802E/TO and TCS2136-2.8V, TC1173-2.8VOATR uniquely combines 300 mA capability, 50 µA I_Q, ERROR flag, and Bypass-enabled 260 nV/√Hz noise - making it the only option among the three qualified for battery-powered precision analog systems requiring both diagnostics and spectral purity.

Availability

TC1173-2.8VOATR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical instruments, cellular handsets, and industrial data loggers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for TC1173-2.8VOATR 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

Microchip Technology Inc. is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and power management ICs, with ISO/TS-16949 certified manufacturing.

The TC1173 product line was designed specifically for battery-operated systems demanding ultra-low quiescent current, precise voltage regulation, and integrated system supervision - targeting portable computing, medical instrumentation, and wireless communications.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for TC1173-2.8VOATR to maintain regulation at 300 mA?

The TC1173-2.8VOATR requires a minimum input voltage of 3.04 V to sustain 2.8 V output at 300 mA, based on its maximum dropout voltage of 480 mV (per datasheet Note 4). At typical conditions (240 mV dropout), 3.04 V is sufficient. Input must also meet the absolute minimum of 2.7 V per electrical specifications.

Can TC1173-2.8VOATR be used without connecting the Bypass pin?

Yes, TC1173-2.8VOATR operates fully functional with the Bypass pin left unconnected. However, omitting the 470 pF capacitor increases output noise to unspecified levels above 260 nV/√Hz. The device remains stable and regulated; the Bypass pin is optional for noise-sensitive applications only.

How does the ERROR output of TC1173-2.8VOATR behave during shutdown?

During shutdown (SHDN = low), the ERROR output of TC1173-2.8VOATR is disabled and presents a high-impedance state - it does not actively drive low or high. The ERROR function is only active when SHDN is high and the regulator is enabled; this prevents spurious reset signals during power-down sequences.

Is TC1173-2.8VOATR compatible with ceramic output capacitors?

Yes, TC1173-2.8VOATR is stable with ceramic output capacitors ≥1 µF, provided their effective series resistance (ESR) is between 0.1 Ω and 5.0 Ω. X7R or X5R dielectrics are recommended. Tantalum and aluminum electrolytic types are also supported, though solid tantalum is preferred for operation below -25°C.

What thermal protection mechanism does TC1173-2.8VOATR implement?

TC1173-2.8VOATR incorporates a thermal shutdown circuit that disables regulation when junction temperature exceeds 150°C. The device remains off until the die cools to approximately 140°C, then automatically resumes operation. This protects against sustained overload or poor PCB thermal design without requiring external intervention.