Texas Instruments TPS73118DBVTG4

Overview

TPS73118DBVTG4 from Texas Instruments is a capacitor-free, NMOS-based 150mA low-dropout linear regulator with reverse current protection, delivering 1.8V output at ultra-low 30mV typical dropout (150mA load), 30μVRMS output noise (10kHz–100kHz), and ±1% overall accuracy across line, load, and temperature. It operates from 1.7V to 5.5V input and powers noise-sensitive VCOs in wireless infrastructure base stations.

For engineers reviewing the TPS73118DBVTG4 datasheet, TPS73118DBVTG4 pinout, TPS73118DBVTG4 application, or TPS73118DBVTG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include capacitor-free stability, sub-100mV dropout at full load, <1μA shutdown current, reverse leakage <10µA, and SOT-23-5 package compatibility for space-constrained portable and industrial power rails.

Technical Context

The TPS73118DBVTG4 uses an NMOS pass transistor with integrated 4MHz charge pump to drive the gate above VOUT, enabling stable regulation without mandatory output capacitance and providing inherent reverse current blocking when EN is asserted low. Its BiCMOS process delivers low ground pin current (≤750µA at 150mA) and high precision (0.5% initial accuracy).

It features a dedicated NR (noise reduction) pin-bypassed with 0.01µF to GND-to reduce output noise to ~12.75µVRMS-and includes foldback current limiting, thermal shutdown at 160°C, and TTL/CMOS-compatible enable logic with <0.1µA enable pin current.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-23-5 (DBV) package: 2.9mm × 2.8mm footprint, surface-mount, thermally enhanced with exposed pad (not electrically connected in DBV variant). Compatible with standard reflow profiles and high-density PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-noise, capacitor-free LDO applications.

Compared with TLS850F0TESA1 and MCP1826T-1802E/DB, the TPS73118DBVTG4 uniquely combines capacitor-free stability, sub-100mV dropout at 150mA, and <10µA reverse leakage-making it optimal for compact, noise-sensitive, battery-backed applications where layout flexibility and backfeed prevention are design priorities.

Availability

TPS73118DBVTG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless infrastructure, portable medical devices, and smart grid metering requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for TPS73118DBVTG4 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 innovation and broad industrial qualification.

The TPS731 family was designed for portable and noise-sensitive applications requiring capacitor-free operation, ultra-low dropout, and reverse current blocking-targeting VCOs, precision sensors, and battery-powered edge devices.

FAQ

Does TPS73118DBVTG4 require an output capacitor to maintain stability?

No, the TPS73118DBVTG4 is explicitly designed for capacitor-free operation due to its NMOS pass element and internal compensation. Stability is guaranteed with zero output capacitance, though adding 0.1–10µF COUT improves load transient response and PSRR. This eliminates capacitor selection risk in high-reliability or variable-capacitance loads.

What is the function of the NR pin on TPS73118DBVTG4?

The NR (Noise Reduction) pin on TPS73118DBVTG4 connects to an internal 27kΩ resistor tied to the bandgap reference. Adding a 0.01µF capacitor from NR to GND forms a low-pass filter that reduces output noise to ~12.75µVRMS-critical for powering VCOs. The NR pin is only present on fixed-output versions like TPS73118DBVTG4, not adjustable variants.

How does TPS73118DBVTG4 achieve reverse current protection?

The TPS73118DBVTG4 uses an NMOS pass transistor with gate driven by an internal charge pump. When EN is pulled low, gate charge is fully removed, turning off the channel and blocking reverse current flow from OUT to IN. Reverse leakage is specified ≤10µA under VOUT > VIN conditions-enabling safe use in multi-supply systems and battery backup paths.

What is the minimum input voltage required for TPS73118DBVTG4 to regulate 1.8V output?

The minimum input voltage for TPS73118DBVTG4 to regulate 1.8V is 1.7V, per its absolute minimum VIN specification. However, to guarantee regulation under all conditions-including 150mA load and temperature extremes-a headroom of ≥30mV (i.e., VIN ≥ 1.83V) is recommended, based on the typical 30mV dropout voltage. Below 1.7V, the device ceases regulation.

Is TPS73118DBVTG4 compatible with standard SOT-23-5 PCB footprints?

Yes, TPS73118DBVTG4 uses the industry-standard DBV (SOT-23-5) package with 2.9mm × 2.8mm dimensions and 0.95mm pin pitch. It is mechanically and thermally compatible with common SOT-23-5 land patterns, reflow profiles, and pick-and-place equipment-no layout redesign is needed when substituting from other SOT-23-5 LDOs.