Microchip Technology TC2186-1.8VCTTR

Overview

TC2186-1.8VCTTR from Microchip Technology is a 150 mA, 1.8 V fixed-output CMOS low-dropout (LDO) regulator in a 5-pin SOT-23A package. It delivers ±0.4% output voltage accuracy, 140 mV typical dropout at 150 mA, and 55 µA typical quiescent current-enabling long battery life in space-constrained portable systems.

For engineers reviewing the TC2186-1.8VCTTR datasheet, TC2186-1.8VCTTR pinout, TC2186-1.8VCTTR application, or TC2186-1.8VCTTR equivalent, key selection criteria include its fast 60 µs shutdown wake-up time, open-drain ERROR flag for low-battery detection, and thermal/overcurrent protection-critical for medical instrumentation and cellular handset power rails.

Technical Context

The TC2186-1.8VCTTR implements a CMOS-based LDO architecture optimized for battery-powered operation, with supply current independent of load. Its error amplifier drives an internal PMOS pass transistor, enabling stable regulation across 0–150 mA while maintaining low noise (600 nV/√Hz) and high PSRR (50 dB @ ≤100 kHz).

It integrates a dedicated open-drain ERROR output asserting low when VOUT drops >5% below 1.8 V, plus logic-level SHDN input with 60% VIH threshold and 15% VIL threshold-allowing direct interface to microcontroller I/O without level-shifting. Thermal shutdown activates at 160°C die temperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 5-pin SOT-23A (EIAJ SC-74A), 2.9 mm × 1.6 mm footprint, 1.1 mm height, θJA ≈ 255°C/W on standard FR4 board.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP1700-1802E/TO and TPS78218DRVR, the TC2186-1.8VCTTR uniquely combines 150 mA capability, integrated open-drain ERROR flag, and 140 mV dropout in SOT-23A-making it optimal for battery-aware systems requiring both efficiency and fault signaling.

Availability

TC2186-1.8VCTTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical instruments, cellular handsets, and industrial handheld terminals requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability.

Supply support for TC2186-1.8VCTTR 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 manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and power management ICs, with ISO/TS-16949 and ISO 9001 certifications.

The TC2054/2055/2186 family was designed as CMOS upgrades to legacy bipolar LDOs-targeting battery-operated systems needing high accuracy, low IQ, and integrated fault signaling in minimal footprint.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for TC2186-1.8VCTTR to regulate at full 150 mA load?

The TC2186-1.8VCTTR requires VIN ≥ 1.94 V to maintain regulation at 150 mA, calculated as VOUT + dropout (1.8 V + 0.14 V). Per datasheet Note 1, the absolute minimum VIN is also constrained to 2.7 V when dropout is not limiting-so actual minimum is the greater value: 2.7 V. This ensures reliable start-up and line regulation across temperature.

Can TC2186-1.8VCTTR be used with a 1 µF ceramic output capacitor?

Yes, TC2186-1.8VCTTR is explicitly specified to be stable with a 1 µF ceramic output capacitor having ESR between 0.05 Ω and 5 Ω. This is confirmed in Section 4.2 and Figure 2-6 of DS21663D. Using this capacitor value simplifies design, reduces cost, and avoids tantalum or electrolytic alternatives.

How does the ERROR pin on TC2186-1.8VCTTR function, and what external components are needed?

The ERROR pin on TC2186-1.8VCTTR is an open-drain output that pulls low when VOUT falls below 1.71 V (95% of 1.8 V). To use it as a processor reset, connect a pull-up resistor (e.g., 100 kΩ to VOUT or VIN) and optionally an RC network (R1 × C2) to extend assertion time per Microchip's Figure 4-1. The pin sinks up to 18 mA.

Is TC2186-1.8VCTTR pin-compatible with older bipolar LDOs such as the LM2936?

No, TC2186-1.8VCTTR is not pin-compatible with LM2936. While the datasheet states "pin compatible upgrades for bipolar regulators" generically, the specific pinout (VIN-GND-SHDN-ERROR-VOUT) differs from LM2936's VIN-VOUT-GND configuration. Direct replacement requires PCB redesign; consult Microchip's migration guides for recommended drop-in alternatives.

What thermal derating applies to TC2186-1.8VCTTR in a standard SOT-23A layout?

In a typical two-layer FR4 board, TC2186-1.8VCTTR has θJA ≈ 255°C/W. At TA = 55°C, maximum allowable power dissipation is ~273 mW ((125°C − 55°C)/255°C/W). With 1.8 V output and 150 mA load, worst-case PD = (VIN − 1.8 V) × 0.15 A - so VIN must stay ≤ 3.6 V to avoid thermal shutdown under continuous load.