Texas Instruments TLV74125PDQNR

Overview

TLV74125PDQNR from Texas Instruments is a 150-mA, low-dropout linear regulator (LDO) with foldback current limit, fixed 2.5-V output, 1% accuracy, 230 mV dropout at 150 mA, and 50 µA quiescent current. It operates from 1.4 V to 5.5 V input and delivers stable regulation for battery-powered microcontrollers such as MSP430 in portable instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the TLV74125PDQNR datasheet, TLV74125PDQNR pinout, TLV74125PDQNR application, or TLV74125PDQNR equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout performance at full load, active output discharge capability, thermal shutdown behavior (158°C trip), foldback current limiting (40 mA short-circuit), and compatibility with 1-µF ceramic output capacitors in space-constrained SOT-23 and X2SON packages.

Technical Context

The TLV74125PDQNR uses a PMOS pass transistor enabling ultra-low dropout and inherent reverse-voltage blocking. Its internal UVLO circuit disables output until VIN exceeds minimum operating voltage, while an active pulldown resistor (120 Ω) discharges the output during shutdown.

It implements foldback current limiting-reducing output current as VOUT collapses-to minimize power dissipation during overload. Thermal protection triggers at 158°C and resets at 140°C, enabling safe fault cycling without permanent damage under sustained overloads.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TLV74125PDQNR is packaged in a 4-pin X2SON (DQN) package measuring 1.00 mm × 1.00 mm with exposed thermal pad electrically connected to GND. This ultra-compact footprint supports high-density portable designs and enables efficient heat transfer to PCB ground plane.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLV74125PDBVR, TLV74125PDQNR offers 75% smaller footprint and improved thermal resistance to board (174.7°C/W vs 76.7°C/W), making it preferable for miniaturized designs; TPL7407LPDQNR is not an LDO and cannot replace TLV74125PDQNR in regulation applications.

Availability

TLV74125PDQNR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical devices, wearable sensors, industrial handheld terminals, and low-power wireless modules requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for TLV74125PDQNR 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in power management, signal chain, and MCU solutions.

The TLV741P family was designed for space- and power-constrained portable electronics, delivering high accuracy, low dropout, and robust protection features in ultra-small packages for next-generation wearables and IoT endpoints.

FAQ

What is the dropout voltage specification for TLV74125PDQNR at full load?

The TLV74125PDQNR has a dropout voltage of 230 mV at 150 mA output current and TJ ≤ 85°C. At 125°C junction temperature, this increases to 540 mV. This means the device maintains regulation as long as VIN remains ≥ 2.73 V (2.5 V + 0.23 V) under typical conditions-critical for maintaining operation across Li-ion battery discharge curves.

Does TLV74125PDQNR include active output discharge, and how does it work?

Yes, TLV74125PDQNR includes active output discharge. When the EN pin is pulled low (<0.4 V), an internal 120-Ω pulldown resistor connects the OUT pin to GND. This rapidly discharges external output capacitance, preventing residual voltage from interfering with system reset sequencing or causing undefined logic states in downstream circuitry.

What is the purpose of the foldback current limit in TLV74125PDQNR?

The foldback current limit in TLV74125PDQNR reduces output current as output voltage collapses during overload or short-circuit. Instead of sustaining 150 mA into a short (causing excessive power dissipation), it limits to ~40 mA. This protects both the IC and PCB traces by minimizing I²R heating and delaying thermal shutdown activation.

Can TLV74125PDQNR operate with a 1-µF output capacitor, and why is this significant?

Yes, TLV74125PDQNR is stable with a minimum 1-µF ceramic output capacitor. This eliminates reliance on larger, less reliable tantalum or electrolytic capacitors-reducing bill-of-materials cost, board area, and failure risk in high-reliability portable applications like medical sensors and industrial handhelds.

What are the absolute maximum ratings for input voltage and enable pin voltage on TLV74125PDQNR?

The absolute maximum input voltage (VIN) for TLV74125PDQNR is 6 V, and the absolute maximum enable pin voltage (VEN) is VIN + 0.3 V. Exceeding these ratings-even momentarily-may cause permanent damage. Recommended operating VIN is 1.4 V to 5.5 V; VEN should remain between 0 V and VIN under normal operation.