Texas Instruments TPS71501DCKRM3

Overview

TPS71501DCKRM3 from Texas Instruments is an adjustable low-dropout linear regulator delivering up to 50 mA output current with 3.2 μA typical quiescent current, operating across 2.5 V to 24 V input and supporting 1.205 V to 15 V output via external feedback resistors. It features internal soft-start, overcurrent protection, and stable operation with ≥0.47 μF output capacitance - ideal for battery-powered microcontroller power rails in industrial sensing nodes.

For engineers reviewing the TPS71501DCKRM3 datasheet, TPS71501DCKRM3 pinout, TPS71501DCKRM3 application, or TPS71501DCKRM3 equivalent, key selection criteria include its ultra-low IQ across full load range (0–50 mA), SC70-5 package footprint, dropout voltage of 415 mV at 50 mA, –40°C to +125°C junction temperature rating, and compatibility with ceramic output capacitors ≥0.47 μF.

Technical Context

The TPS71501DCKRM3 implements a CMOS pass transistor architecture with a 1.205 V internal bandgap reference and leakage-null control circuit active under light-load/high-voltage/temperature conditions. Its feedback loop uses external R1/R2 to set output voltage, enabling precise regulation across the full 1.205–15 V range without internal resistor trimming.

It operates in three functional modes: normal regulation (VIN > VOUT + VDO), dropout (VIN < VOUT + VDO, output tracks input), and current-limit fault state (brick-wall ICL = 125–350 mA depending on chip version). Thermal performance is characterized by RθJB = 40.7°C/W for the new-chip variant in SC70-5.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS71501DCKRM3 is housed in a 5-pin SC70 (DCK) package measuring 2.00 mm × 1.25 mm, optimized for space-constrained PCBs. The package includes thermal pad exposure on bottom surface for enhanced board-level heat dissipation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MCP1703T-3302E/MB and ADP7182ACPZN-R7, the TPS71501DCKRM3 offers the smallest footprint (SC70-5), widest input range (2.5–24 V), and optimal balance of ultra-low IQ (3.2 μA) with adjustability - making it uniquely suited for space- and battery-limited designs requiring flexible output voltage.

Availability

TPS71501DCKRM3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for home automation sensor nodes, industrial grid monitoring units, medical wearable patches, and LED driver bias supplies requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for TPS71501DCKRM3 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 leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management technologies, with decades of LDO design expertise and broad industrial qualification.

The TPS715 product line was engineered specifically for ultra-low-power, wide-input-voltage applications in battery-operated and energy-harvesting systems - emphasizing quiescent current optimization, thermal robustness, and miniaturized packaging.

FAQ

What is the minimum output capacitance required for stable operation of the TPS71501DCKRM3?

The TPS71501DCKRM3 requires a minimum effective output capacitance of 0.47 μF, with ceramic dielectric recommended. This value accounts for 50% derating - so a nominal 1.0 μF capacitor is typically used. The device remains stable across the full operating temperature and load range with this capacitance, and no ESR specification is required, simplifying component selection and layout.

Does the TPS71501DCKRM3 support adjustable output voltage, and how is it configured?

Yes, the TPS71501DCKRM3 is the adjustable version of the TPS715 family. Output voltage is set using an external resistor divider between OUT, FB, and GND. The formula is VOUT = 1.205 V × (1 + R1/R2), enabling precise outputs from 1.205 V to 15 V. R1 and R2 values must be selected for target accuracy and bias current - e.g., 1 MΩ and 0.499 MΩ yield 3.3 V with <1% error assuming 0.1% resistor tolerance.

What is the dropout voltage specification for the TPS71501DCKRM3 at full load?

The TPS71501DCKRM3 has a typical dropout voltage of 415 mV at 50 mA output current and 25°C. This value increases slightly at temperature extremes and under higher input voltages, with a maximum of 525 mV for the new-chip revision. The low dropout enables regulation even when input voltage is only ~0.4 V above the desired output, extending usable battery life in single-cell or multi-cell systems.

Is an input capacitor required for the TPS71501DCKRM3, and if so, what value is recommended?

An input capacitor is not required for stability of the TPS71501DCKRM3, but a 0.1 μF ceramic capacitor from IN to GND is strongly recommended. This mitigates high-frequency noise and transient ringing caused by source inductance, especially during load steps. For systems with long traces or high-impedance sources, adding a bulk capacitor (e.g., 1–10 μF) in parallel improves dynamic response without affecting LDO stability.

How does the TPS71501DCKRM3 handle overcurrent or short-circuit conditions?

The TPS71501DCKRM3 incorporates a brick-wall overcurrent protection circuit that limits output current to 125–350 mA (depending on chip revision) during short-circuit or overload events. When triggered, the device enters constant-current mode - output voltage collapses, and power dissipation rises. It does not auto-recover; normal regulation resumes only after the fault is removed and the device cools below thermal shutdown threshold (if reached).