Microchip Technology TC1173-3.0VUA

Overview

TC1173-3.0VUA from Microchip Technology Inc. is a fixed-output, CMOS-based low dropout (LDO) voltage regulator delivering 3.0 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 integrates shutdown control (SHDN), open-drain ERROR flag for out-of-regulation detection, and Bypass input for ultra-low-noise operation-designed for battery-powered medical instruments and portable computing systems.

For engineers reviewing the TC1173-3.0VUA datasheet, TC1173-3.0VUA pinout, TC1173-3.0VUA application, or TC1173-3.0VUA equivalent, key selection criteria include its 300 mA output capability, 0.05 µA shutdown current, 260 nV/√Hz output noise performance, -40°C to +125°C operating junction temperature range, and MSOP-8 package compatibility with space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The TC1173-3.0VUA employs CMOS pass transistor architecture enabling stable regulation across 0–300 mA load with no increase in quiescent current under load. Its internal feed-forward compensation ensures fast transient response to step-load changes, while thermal shutdown (150°C trip) and current limiting protect against fault conditions.

ERROR output asserts low when VOUT drops >5% below nominal (e.g., <2.85 V for 3.0 V output), with 50 mV hysteresis referenced to VR. The Bypass pin accepts a 470 pF capacitor to reduce reference noise, lowering output noise to 260 nV/√Hz at 1 kHz-critical for precision analog and RTC backup circuits.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TC1173-3.0VUA is housed in an 8-pin MSOP package (3.0 mm × 3.0 mm × 1.1 mm height), optimized for high-density PCB layouts with thermal resistance θ_JA ≈ 200°C/W. Pin 1 is marked by a dot; leads are gull-wing, lead-free, RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP1700-3002E/TO and TCS2136-3.0V, TC1173-3.0VUA uniquely combines 300 mA output, ERROR flag, Bypass-enabled ultra-low noise, and MSOP-8 footprint-making it optimal for battery-critical, noise-sensitive, and fault-aware embedded systems where integrated supervision reduces component count.

Availability

TC1173-3.0VUA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-operated medical instruments, portable computing peripherals, and industrial handheld terminals requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for TC1173-3.0VUA 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 and global technical support infrastructure.

The TC1173 product line was designed specifically for ultra-low-power, high-accuracy linear regulation in portable and battery-backed systems-emphasizing minimal quiescent current, low dropout, and integrated fault monitoring without external components.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for TC1173-3.0VUA to maintain regulation at 300 mA load?

The TC1173-3.0VUA requires VIN ≥ VOUT + dropout voltage. With a typical dropout of 240 mV at 300 mA, the minimum input is 3.0 V + 0.24 V = 3.24 V. Per datasheet Note 8, VIN must also be ≥2.7 V, so 3.24 V governs. Below this, the ERROR output asserts low, indicating out-of-regulation operation.

Can TC1173-3.0VUA be used without connecting the Bypass pin?

Yes, TC1173-3.0VUA operates fully functional with the Bypass pin (Pin 4) left unconnected. However, omitting the 470 pF capacitor increases output noise from 260 nV/√Hz to higher levels-acceptable for digital loads but not recommended for precision analog circuits like ADC references or sensor front-ends where low noise is critical.

How does the ERROR output of TC1173-3.0VUA interface with a microcontroller reset input?

The ERROR output of TC1173-3.0VUA is open-drain and asserts low when VOUT falls ≤2.85 V. To interface with a microcontroller reset pin, connect a pull-up resistor (e.g., 10 kΩ to VOUT or VIN) and optionally add an RC network (e.g., 1 MΩ + 0.2 µF) to extend the reset pulse width beyond 200 ms, ensuring proper system initialization before release.

Is TC1173-3.0VUA stable with ceramic output capacitors, and what is the minimum value?

Yes, TC1173-3.0VUA is stable with ceramic output capacitors as low as 1 µF. The datasheet specifies no ESR requirement, unlike many older LDOs. A 1 µF X7R or C0G ceramic capacitor placed close to VOUT and GND pins ensures stability, fast transient response, and minimal board area-no tantalum or electrolytic capacitor needed.

What thermal protection behavior does TC1173-3.0VUA exhibit under sustained overload?

TC1173-3.0VUA incorporates thermal shutdown that disables regulation when junction temperature exceeds 150°C. The device remains off until die temperature cools to ~140°C, then resumes normal operation. This cycle prevents permanent damage during continuous overload or inadequate PCB copper area, especially critical in the MSOP-8 package with θ_JA ≈ 200°C/W.