Texas Instruments TPS72115DBVTG4

Overview

TPS72115DBVTG4 from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output 1.5-V, 150-mA low-dropout linear regulator in a 5-pin SOT-23 (DBV) package. It operates down to 1.8 V input, delivers 200 mV typical dropout at full load, supports 0.1-µF ceramic output capacitance, and draws only 85 µA quiescent current-enabling direct two-AAA-battery operation in portable microcontroller core power supplies.

For engineers reviewing the TPS72115DBVTG4 datasheet, TPS72115DBVTG4 pinout, TPS72115DBVTG4 application, or TPS72115DBVTG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include minimum input voltage (1.8 V), ultra-low output capacitor requirement (0.1 µF), shutdown current (<1 µA), thermal protection (170°C trip), and SOT-23 footprint compatibility for space-constrained battery-powered designs.

Technical Context

The TPS72115DBVTG4 uses a PMOS pass element to achieve low dropout and enable operation below 2.0 V input-unlike NMOS-based LDOs requiring higher gate drive. Its internal compensation eliminates need for ≥1-µF output capacitors, stabilizing regulation across 1.8–5.5 V input and 0–150 mA load with only 0.1 µF ceramic.

Enable logic is active-high (VIH = 1.4 V min); tying EN to VIN disables shutdown. Built-in protection includes foldback current limiting (~350 mA trip), thermal shutdown (170°C with 20°C hysteresis), and reverse-current safe back diode in the PMOS structure.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-23 (DBV) package: 5-pin, 1.45 mm max height, JEDEC MO-178 compliant, 2.9 × 1.6 mm footprint, exposed pad optional per layout guidelines.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS72115DBVTG4, TPS72115DBVR offers identical functionality in bulk packaging, while MCP1700T-1502E/TT trades away thermal safety and low-input capability for lower unit cost-making it viable only in thermally benign, well-regulated systems.

Availability

TPS72115DBVTG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable communication devices, battery-powered medical monitors, and PCMCIA peripheral power supplies requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant SOT-23 packaging.

Supply support for TPS72115DBVTG4 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 over 50 years of innovation in high-reliability IC design.

The TPS721xx family was engineered specifically for ultra-low-input-voltage, space-constrained portable applications-delivering regulated core power directly from primary batteries without intermediate conversion stages.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for stable operation of the TPS72115DBVTG4?

The TPS72115DBVTG4 requires a minimum input voltage of 1.8 V or (VOUT + VDO), whichever is greater. At 150 mA load, its typical dropout is 200 mV, so stable 1.5-V output is maintained down to 1.7 V input-but the absolute minimum specified is 1.8 V per absolute maximum ratings. Below 1.8 V, regulation is not guaranteed.

Does the TPS72115DBVTG4 require an external feedback resistor network?

No, the TPS72115DBVTG4 is a fixed-output 1.5-V regulator and does not require external feedback resistors. Pin 4 (NC/FB) is internally disconnected and must be left floating-unlike the adjustable TPS72101, which uses that pin for feedback. Adding external components to pin 4 may disrupt operation.

Can the TPS72115DBVTG4 safely handle reverse current flow from output to input?

Yes, the TPS72115DBVTG4 integrates a PMOS pass transistor with a built-in back diode that safely conducts reverse current when VIN falls below VOUT (e.g., during power-down). However, reverse current is not internally limited-external current limiting may be needed if sustained reverse voltage or high reverse current is expected in the application.

What is the thermal shutdown behavior of the TPS72115DBVTG4?

The TPS72115DBVTG4 shuts down at 170°C junction temperature and automatically recovers when junction temperature drops to ~150°C (20°C hysteresis). During shutdown, output is disabled and quiescent current falls below 1 µA. This protects against permanent damage during overload or high-ambient conditions.

Is the TPS72115DBVTG4 compatible with 0.1-µF ceramic output capacitors from all manufacturers?

Yes-the TPS72115DBVTG4's internal compensation is designed for stability with any 0.1-µF X5R or X7R ceramic capacitor meeting standard EIA-1812 or smaller case sizes. TI validates performance with generic 0.1-µF ceramics; no ESR or capacitance tolerance restrictions apply beyond standard ±20% tolerance.