Microchip Technology TC1173-3.0VOA

Overview

TC1173-3.0VOA from Microchip Technology Inc. is a fixed-output 3.0V CMOS low dropout (LDO) regulator with ±0.5% output voltage accuracy, 300mA maximum output current, and ultra-low 50μA typical supply current at full load. It features an open-drain ERROR flag for out-of-regulation detection, shutdown control (SHDN), and Bypass input for noise reduction-designed for battery-powered medical instruments and portable computing systems.

For engineers reviewing the TC1173-3.0VOA datasheet, TC1173-3.0VOA pinout, TC1173-3.0VOA application, or TC1173-3.0VOA equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage (240mV at 300mA), thermal/overcurrent protection, 0.05μA shutdown current, and compatibility with 1μF minimum output capacitance in space-constrained SOIC-8 layouts.

Technical Context

The TC1173-3.0VOA uses CMOS pass transistor architecture to maintain stable 3.0V output across 0–300mA load range without increasing quiescent current with load-a critical advantage over bipolar LDOs. Its internal feed-forward compensation enables fast transient response to step-load changes.

ERROR output asserts low when VOUT drops >5% below nominal (i.e., ≤2.85V), supporting low-battery warning or processor reset generation via external RC timing network. Shutdown mode reduces supply current to 0.05μA (typical) and forces VOUT and ERROR to zero.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TC1173-3.0VOA is housed in an 8-pin SOIC package (JEDEC MS-012AC, 3.99mm × 4.90mm × 1.75mm), optimized for automated assembly and thermal performance (θJA ≈ 160°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP1700-3002E/TO and NCP1117ST30T3G, TC1173-3.0VOA uniquely balances 300mA drive, 50μA IQ, and 240mV dropout in an SOIC-8 footprint-making it optimal for mid-power portable electronics where runtime, size, and noise all matter.

Availability

TC1173-3.0VOA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-operated medical instruments, portable computing peripherals, and GSM/PHS phone subsystems requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for TC1173-3.0VOA 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 delivers precision, low-quiescent-current LDO regulators for battery-critical applications-designed specifically to replace bipolar regulators in portable instrumentation and communications equipment.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for TC1173-3.0VOA to regulate at 300mA load?

The TC1173-3.0VOA requires VIN ≥ VOUT + dropout voltage. At 300mA, dropout is 240mV (max), so minimum VIN is 3.24V. The datasheet also specifies absolute minimum VIN = 2.7V, but that applies only at lighter loads; for full 300mA operation, 3.24V is the functional minimum. TC1173-3.0VOA will enter dropout or shut down if VIN falls below this threshold under load.

Can TC1173-3.0VOA be used with ceramic output capacitors?

Yes, TC1173-3.0VOA is stable with 1μF ceramic output capacitors, provided their effective series resistance (ESR) is between 0.1Ω and 5.0Ω. This eliminates reliance on larger, less reliable tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitors. TC1173-3.0VOA's internal compensation does not require ESR tuning, simplifying design and improving long-term reliability in portable systems.

How does the ERROR output of TC1173-3.0VOA function in a processor reset application?

The ERROR output is an open-drain signal that goes low when VOUT drops ≤2.85V (95% of 3.0V). To generate a processor reset, connect ERROR to the MCU's active-low RESET pin via a pull-up resistor (e.g., to VOUT or VIN), and add an RC network (e.g., 1MΩ + 0.2μF) to extend the low pulse beyond 200ms. TC1173-3.0VOA's 50mV hysteresis prevents chatter during marginal input conditions.

Is TC1173-3.0VOA compatible with the MSOP-8 package variant?

No, TC1173-3.0VOA is specified exclusively for the 8-pin SOIC package (VOA suffix). The MSOP-8 variant carries the VUA suffix (e.g., TC1173-3.0VUA). While electrically identical, TC1173-3.0VOA has different thermal resistance (θJA ≈ 160°C/W vs. 200°C/W for MSOP), different pin 1 marking, and distinct tape-and-reel packaging-PCB layout and reflow profiles must match the SOIC-8 footprint.

Does TC1173-3.0VOA require an input capacitor?

An input capacitor is recommended but not strictly required for stability. A 1μF capacitor from VIN to GND is advised when the regulator is powered from batteries or located >10 inches from the main AC filter capacitor. This improves transient response and reduces noise coupling. TC1173-3.0VOA remains stable without it under typical bench conditions, but TC1173-3.0VOA's performance in real-world battery-powered systems benefits from the added input filtering.