Microchip Technology TC1262-2.5VDB

Overview

TC1262-2.5VDB from Microchip Technology is a fixed-output, AEC-Q100 qualified CMOS low-dropout regulator delivering 2.5 V at up to 500 mA with ±0.5% output voltage accuracy, 350 mV typical dropout at full load, and 80 μA quiescent current-designed for battery-powered medical instruments and portable computing systems.

For engineers reviewing the TC1262-2.5VDB datasheet, TC1262-2.5VDB pinout, TC1262-2.5VDB application, or TC1262-2.5VDB equivalent, key selection criteria include automotive-grade thermal shutdown (160°C), ultra-low noise (260 nV/√Hz), stability with only 1 μF output capacitance, and SOT-223 package compatibility with high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The TC1262-2.5VDB employs a CMOS pass element to eliminate ground current increase with load-enabling stable regulation from 0 mA to 500 mA while maintaining 80 μA supply current across the full range. Its internal overcurrent and overtemperature protection circuits activate independently without latch-up.

Designed for direct integration after switching regulators, it achieves 64 dB PSRR at ≤1 kHz and supports fast transient response due to low output impedance and minimal required external capacitance (1 μF ceramic or tantalum). The device operates across –40°C to +125°C junction temperature with no minimum load requirement.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TC1262-2.5VDB is housed in a 3-pin SOT-223 package (Microchip drawing C04-032 Rev D) with exposed thermal pad connected to GND; footprint requires 2.30 mm lead pitch and 6.70 mm × 3.70 mm board area per land pattern.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP1700-2502E/TO and NCP1117ST2.5T3G, TC1262-2.5VDB uniquely balances 500 mA capability, automotive qualification, ultra-low dropout, and sub-100 μA quiescent current-making it the sole option for AEC-Q100-compliant, high-current, battery-critical designs.

Availability

TC1262-2.5VDB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for medical instrumentation, portable computing, and cellular phone power management requiring stable component supply across automotive and industrial temperature ranges.

Supply support for TC1262-2.5VDB 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 is a global semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and power management ICs, with design centers and manufacturing operations across the Americas, Asia, and Europe.

The TC1262 product line delivers high-accuracy, low-quiescent-current CMOS LDOs optimized for battery-operated and automotive systems where efficiency, thermal robustness, and precision regulation are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for TC1262-2.5VDB?

The absolute maximum input voltage for TC1262-2.5VDB is 6.5 V. Operation above this level risks permanent damage. For reliable continuous operation, the recommended input range is 2.7 V to 6.0 V, ensuring sufficient headroom above the 2.5 V output while staying within safe thermal and electrical margins. This range supports common battery chemistries including single-cell Li-ion and dual-cell alkaline.

Does TC1262-2.5VDB require an input capacitor?

TC1262-2.5VDB does not mandate an input capacitor for basic stability, but one is strongly recommended: a 1 μF aluminum electrolytic or tantalum capacitor from VIN to GND is required if the regulator is powered by a battery or located more than 10 inches from the AC filter capacitor. This reduces input impedance at high frequencies and improves transient response and noise rejection-especially important in GSM phone and medical instrument applications where supply integrity is critical.

Is TC1262-2.5VDB pin-compatible with other SOT-223 LDOs?

TC1262-2.5VDB uses standard SOT-223 pinout (VIN–GND–VOUT), matching industry convention for 3-pin LDOs. However, pin compatibility alone does not guarantee functional interchangeability-differences in dropout voltage, quiescent current, PSRR, and protection behavior mean layout reuse requires verification against the target replacement's electrical specifications. Always validate thermal performance and transient response in the final system.

What thermal resistance (θJA) can be expected for TC1262-2.5VDB in its SOT-223 package?

For TC1262-2.5VDB in the SOT-223 package, θJA is 59°C/W when mounted on a 100 mm² copper area (topside only), per Microchip's DS20001373D-page 4 Table 4-1. With 2500 mm² top-side copper, θJA drops to 45°C/W. These values assume the exposed tab is soldered to GND plane-failure to do so degrades thermal performance significantly and may trigger thermal shutdown under 500 mA load.

Can TC1262-2.5VDB be used without a load?

Yes, TC1262-2.5VDB is fully specified and stable with zero load current (IL = 0 mA). Its CMOS architecture ensures quiescent current remains at 80 μA regardless of output loading, and output voltage stays within ±0.5% accuracy across the full 0–500 mA range. This makes TC1262-2.5VDB ideal for RTC backup rails, memory retention supplies, and other always-on, low-duty-cycle applications where no minimum load is permissible.