Texas Instruments TPS72115DBVRG4

Overview

TPS72115DBVRG4 from Texas Instruments is a 150-mA, fixed 1.5-V low-dropout linear regulator in a 5-pin SOT-23 (DBV) package, featuring 200-mV typical dropout at full load, 0.1-µF ceramic output capacitor support, and <1 µA shutdown current. It powers microcontroller core rails in dual-supply portable systems powered by two AAA batteries.

For engineers reviewing the TPS72115DBVRG4 datasheet, TPS72115DBVRG4 pinout, TPS72115DBVRG4 application, or TPS72115DBVRG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include minimum input voltage (1.8 V), thermal shutdown (170°C), enable logic compatibility (VIH = 1.4 V), and stability with ultra-small 0.1-µF output capacitance.

Technical Context

The TPS72115DBVRG4 uses a PMOS pass element enabling operation down to 1.8 V input while maintaining low dropout (150–200 mV at 150 mA). Its internal compensation eliminates need for ≥1-µF output capacitors-stability is guaranteed with 0.1-µF ceramic capacitors across full load (0–150 mA) and temperature (−40°C to 125°C) ranges.

Enable functionality supports system-level power sequencing: logic-low EN disables output and reduces ground current to <1 µA. Built-in protection includes foldback current limiting (~350 mA trip), thermal shutdown (170°C activation, 20°C hysteresis), and reverse-current safe back diode in the PMOS pass device.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-23 (DBV) package: 5-pin, 1.45-mm maximum height, JEDEC MO-178 compliant, 3.0 mm × 1.75 mm footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS72115DBVRG4, TPS72115DBVR offers identical performance with standard RoHS compliance, while TPS71715DCKR trades input voltage capability and capacitor size for lower quiescent current - making TPS72115DBVRG4 optimal for battery-powered systems requiring wide VIN range and minimal output capacitance.

Availability

TPS72115DBVRG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable communication devices, battery-powered equipment, and PCMCIA cards requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle availability, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for TPS72115DBVRG4 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 connectivity technologies with decades of LDO design heritage.

The TPS721xx family was engineered specifically for ultra-low-input-voltage, space-constrained portable applications - prioritizing 1.8-V operation, 0.1-µF capacitor compatibility, and sub-1-µA shutdown to maximize battery runtime in handheld electronics.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for stable operation of the TPS72115DBVRG4?

The TPS72115DBVRG4 requires a minimum input voltage of 1.8 V for guaranteed operation across temperature and load. This is determined by its 1.5-V output plus typical 200-mV dropout at 150 mA. Below 1.8 V, regulation is not assured - making it ideal for two AAA batteries across their full discharge curve (3.0 V → 1.8 V).

Does the TPS72115DBVRG4 require an external feedback resistor network?

No, the TPS72115DBVRG4 is a fixed-output 1.5-V regulator and does not require external feedback resistors. Pin 4 (NC/FB) is internally connected to the reference and must be left unconnected - unlike the adjustable TPS72101 variant which uses this pin for feedback.

Can the TPS72115DBVRG4 safely handle reverse current flow from output to input?

Yes, the TPS72115DBVRG4 integrates a PMOS pass transistor with a built-in back diode that safely conducts reverse current when V_IN falls below V_OUT, such as during power-down sequences. However, reverse current is not internally limited - external current limiting may be needed if sustained reverse voltage or high reverse current is expected.

What is the thermal shutdown behavior of the TPS72115DBVRG4?

The TPS72115DBVRG4 activates thermal shutdown at 170°C junction temperature and remains off until junction temperature cools to approximately 150°C (20°C hysteresis). Recovery is fully automatic with no external reset required. This protects against permanent damage during prolonged overload or poor heatsinking conditions.

Is a 0.1-µF output capacitor sufficient for all load conditions with the TPS72115DBVRG4?

Yes, the TPS72115DBVRG4 is internally compensated to guarantee stability with a minimum 0.1-µF ceramic output capacitor across the full operating range: 0–150 mA load, −40°C to 125°C junction temperature, and 1.8–5.5 V input. Larger capacitors improve transient response but are not required for stability.