Texas Instruments TPS72218DBVTG4

Overview

TPS72218DBVTG4 from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output 1.8-V, 50-mA low-dropout linear regulator in a 5-pin SOT-23 (DBV) package. It operates from 1.8 V to 5.5 V input, delivers 50 mV typical dropout at full load, requires only a 0.1-µF ceramic output capacitor, and draws just 85 µA quiescent current-enabling direct two-AAA-battery operation in portable microcontroller power rails.

For engineers reviewing the TPS72218DBVTG4 datasheet, TPS72218DBVTG4 pinout, TPS72218DBVTG4 application, or TPS72218DBVTG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1.8-V fixed output, ultra-low input voltage capability (≥1.8 V), minimal external capacitance requirement, thermal/overcurrent protection, and shutdown mode with <1 µA standby current.

Technical Context

The TPS72218DBVTG4 uses a PMOS pass element enabling operation down to 1.8 V input while maintaining 50 mV typical dropout at 50 mA. Its internal compensation stabilizes regulation across 1.8–5.5 V input and 0–50 mA load with only 0.1-µF output capacitance-eliminating need for larger, costlier capacitors.

It integrates enable-controlled shutdown (EN pin), thermal shutdown at 170°C with 20°C hysteresis, and current limiting (~350 mA). The NC/FB pin is unconnected in fixed-output variants like TPS72218DBVTG4, distinguishing it from the adjustable TPS72201.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-23 (DBV) package: 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm footprint, 1.45 mm max height, 5-terminal surface-mount device with gull-wing leads.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS72218DBVTG4, TPS72218DBVR offers identical functionality in larger reels, while MCP1700T-1802E/TT trades higher output current and lower quiescent current for increased dropout voltage and larger required output capacitance-making TPS72218DBVTG4 optimal for space- and input-voltage-constrained 50-mA applications.

Availability

TPS72218DBVTG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable communication devices, battery-powered medical instruments, and PCMCIA card power management requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for TPS72218DBVTG4 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.

The TPS722xx family was engineered specifically for ultra-low-input-voltage, space-constrained portable applications-delivering regulated 1.5-V to 1.8-V rails directly from two-AAA batteries without external complexity.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for stable operation of the TPS72218DBVTG4?

The TPS72218DBVTG4 requires a minimum input voltage of 1.8 V or (V_OUT + V_DO)-whichever is greater. With its 50 mV typical dropout at 50 mA, the absolute minimum is 1.8 V, enabling direct operation from two AAA batteries even near end-of-life. This is confirmed in the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Electrical Characteristics tables of the SLVS390B datasheet.

Does the TPS72218DBVTG4 require an external feedback resistor network?

No, the TPS72218DBVTG4 is a fixed-output variant and does not require external feedback resistors. Pin 4 (NC/FB) is internally unconnected and must remain floating-unlike the adjustable TPS72201. This simplifies layout and eliminates resistor tolerance errors, ensuring consistent 1.8-V output across units and temperature.

Can the TPS72218DBVTG4 safely handle reverse current flow from output to input?

Yes, the TPS72218DBVTG4 incorporates a PMOS pass element with an integrated back diode that safely conducts reverse current when V_IN falls below V_OUT-such as during power-down sequences. While not internally current-limited in reverse mode, this feature prevents latch-up and protects upstream sources, as documented in the REGULATOR PROTECTION section of SLVS390B.

What is the thermal shutdown behavior of the TPS72218DBVTG4?

The TPS72218DBVTG4 activates thermal shutdown at 170°C junction temperature and resumes operation automatically once the junction cools to approximately 150°C (20°C hysteresis). This behavior is specified in the Electrical Characteristics table and ensures robust protection during sustained overload or poor PCB thermal design without requiring external intervention.

Is the TPS72218DBVTG4 compatible with 0.1-µF ceramic output capacitors from multiple vendors?

Yes, the TPS72218DBVTG4's internal compensation is validated for stability with any 0.1-µF X5R or X7R ceramic capacitor meeting standard EIA ratings, as confirmed in the APPLICATION INFORMATION section and Typical Characteristics (Figure 1–15). No vendor-specific tuning or additional ESR requirements apply-enabling flexible, low-cost capacitor sourcing.