Texas Instruments TPS71525DCKRM3

Overview

TPS71525DCKRM3 from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output 2.5-V, 50-mA low-dropout linear regulator with 3.2-μA quiescent current, stable with ≥0.47-μF output capacitance, and rated for –40°C to +125°C junction operation. It delivers ultra-low IQ across full load range (0–50 mA) and supports input voltages from 2.5 V to 24 V - ideal for battery-powered MCU power rails in space-constrained industrial sensors.

For engineers reviewing the TPS71525DCKRM3 datasheet, TPS71525DCKRM3 pinout, TPS71525DCKRM3 application, or TPS71525DCKRM3 equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage at 50 mA (415 mV typ), thermal performance in SC70 (R_θJB = 40.7°C/W), PSRR at 100 kHz (60 dB), and compatibility with ceramic output capacitors ≥0.47 μF without ESR requirements.

Technical Context

The TPS71525DCKRM3 implements a CMOS pass transistor architecture with internal bandgap reference (1.205 V), leakage-null control circuit active under high-VIN/low-IOUT conditions, and brick-wall overcurrent protection (ICL = 125–350 mA depending on chip version). Its functional block includes integrated soft-start to limit inrush current during startup.

It operates in three modes: normal regulation (VIN > VOUT + VDO), dropout (VIN < VOUT + VDO, output tracks input), and fault-limited (IOUT ≥ ICL). The device requires no external compensation and remains stable with ceramic capacitors as low as 0.47 μF due to inherent phase-margin optimization.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS71525DCKRM3 uses the 5-pin SC70 (DCK) package, measuring 2.00 mm × 1.25 mm, with exposed pad not electrically connected. Thermal performance optimized via low R_θJB (40.7°C/W) when soldered to PCB copper.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS71525DCKRM3, TPS71533DCKRM3 offers identical form-factor and performance at 3.3 V, while MCP1700T-2502E/TT trades ultra-low IQ and soft-start for higher output current and lower package cost - making it viable only where battery life is secondary to current capacity.

Availability

TPS71525DCKRM3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smart sensor nodes, industrial I/O modules, medical wearables, and home automation controllers requiring stable component supply with long-term manufacturability and consistent parametric performance.

Supply support for TPS71525DCKRM3 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 ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

The TPS715 family was designed specifically for ultra-low-power, wide-input-voltage LDO applications in battery-operated and harsh-environment systems - emphasizing quiescent current minimization without sacrificing thermal robustness or transient response.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for TPS71525DCKRM3?

The TPS71525DCKRM3 is rated for up to 24 V under standard operating conditions. However, per the December 2022 revision (SLVS338T), new-chip variants like the M3 suffix support an absolute maximum input voltage of 30 V - confirmed in Absolute Maximum Ratings for "VIN (for new chip only)". Always verify the specific die revision on the device marking or TI's official product folder.

Does TPS71525DCKRM3 require an external output capacitor, and what value is needed?

Yes, TPS71525DCKRM3 requires an output capacitor for stability. The minimum effective capacitance is 0.47 μF, with ceramic types fully supported. Because capacitors derate ~50% in practice, a nominal 1-μF X7R ceramic is recommended. This eliminates ESR constraints and simplifies layout versus older LDOs requiring tantalum or aluminum electrolytics.

Is TPS71525DCKRM3 pin-compatible with other TPS715 fixed-output variants?

Yes, all fixed-output TPS715 variants in the DCK (SC70-5) package - including TPS71518, TPS71528, TPS71533, and TPS71550 - share identical pinout and footprint. The only differences are output voltage and associated electrical characteristics (e.g., line/load regulation); no PCB redesign is required when swapping within the fixed-voltage series.

What thermal performance can be expected from TPS71525DCKRM3 in a standard PCB layout?

In a typical 2-layer PCB with 1-in² 1-oz copper pour connected to the GND pin, TPS71525DCKRM3 achieves R_θJB = 40.7°C/W (new chip). At 50 mA and 24-V input, worst-case power dissipation is ~1.075 W, resulting in ~43°C junction rise above board temperature - well within the –40°C to +125°C operating range if ambient stays below 82°C.

How does the leakage-null control circuit affect TPS71525DCKRM3 operation?

The leakage-null control circuit in TPS71525DCKRM3 actively reduces ground current when output load falls below ~5 μA, VIN exceeds 18 V, and junction temperature rises above 100°C. It ensures IQ remains near 3.2 μA even under high-VIN/low-IOUT stress - critical for maintaining battery life in intermittently active remote sensors exposed to elevated ambient temperatures.