Texas Instruments TPS73701DCQG4

Overview

TPS73701DCQG4 from Texas Instruments is a 1A, adjustable-output low-dropout (LDO) voltage regulator with NMOS pass transistor topology, reverse current protection, and ultra-low dropout voltage of 122 mV typical at 1 A (new silicon). It operates from 2.2 V to 5.5 V input, delivers ±1.5% overall output accuracy over line/load/temperature, and stabilizes with only 1 µF ceramic output capacitor. It is used in point-of-load regulation for FPGAs and microprocessors where low quiescent current (<20 nA shutdown) and fast load transient response are critical.

For engineers reviewing the TPS73701DCQG4 datasheet, TPS73701DCQG4 pinout, TPS73701DCQG4 application, or TPS73701DCQG4 equivalent, key selection considerations include its SOT-223-6 package thermal performance (R_θJA = 76 °C/W), enable-controlled shutdown behavior, feedback-based output adjustability (1.20 V to 5.5 V), and NMOS-driven reverse leakage suppression (<0.1 µA).

Technical Context

The TPS73701DCQG4 implements an NMOS pass transistor in voltage-follower configuration, enabling ultra-low dropout and inherent reverse current blocking without external diodes. Its BiCMOS process delivers high precision (1% initial accuracy) and low ground-pin current-880 µA at 1 A load (new silicon)-while supporting stable operation with minimal 1 µF ceramic output capacitance.

It integrates thermal shutdown (160 °C trip, 140 °C reset) and foldback current limiting (1.05–2.2 A), and uses an internal 4-MHz charge pump to drive the NMOS gate above V_OUT. The FB pin accepts external resistor dividers for adjustable output; the DCQ package lacks NR pin but supports noise reduction via C_FB (≤0.1 µF) from FB to OUT.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-223-6 (DCQ) package with exposed thermal pad connected to GND; 6.5 mm × 7.06 mm footprint; suitable for manual soldering and automated assembly with standard reflow profiles.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS73701DCQG4, TPS7A3701DRBR offers tighter accuracy at the cost of higher active quiescent current, while MCP1826T-ADJE/DC provides higher current but sacrifices reverse current protection, enable control, and dropout performance-making TPS73701DCQG4 optimal for battery-sensitive, enable-controlled, low-dropout applications.

Availability

TPS73701DCQG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for point-of-load regulation, portable equipment power management, and industrial microprocessor supply applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for TPS73701DCQG4 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 and broad automotive/industrial qualification.

The TPS737 family was designed for portable and battery-powered systems requiring ultra-low dropout, reverse current protection, and minimal external components-targeting FPGA, DSP, and microprocessor point-of-load regulation.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage for the TPS73701DCQG4?

The TPS73701DCQG4 supports an absolute maximum input voltage of 6 V, but its recommended operating range is 2.2 V to 5.5 V. Exceeding 5.5 V may cause permanent damage or violate safe operating area limits, especially under high ambient temperatures or heavy load conditions. Always refer to Section 5.1 Absolute Maximum Ratings in the official datasheet for derating guidance.

Does the TPS73701DCQG4 require an external capacitor on the FB pin?

Yes-the TPS73701DCQG4 is the adjustable version and uses the FB pin to set output voltage via an external resistor divider. While not mandatory, adding a feedback capacitor (C_FB) ≤ 0.1 µF from FB to OUT significantly improves output noise and load transient response. This is explicitly recommended in TI's datasheet Section 6.3.1 for the TPS73701 variant.

What is the thermal resistance (R_θJA) of the TPS73701DCQG4 in its SOT-223 package?

The TPS73701DCQG4 in the DCQ (SOT-223-6) package has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (R_θJA) of 76 °C/W under JEDEC-standard high-K board conditions. This value assumes proper PCB layout: GND pins connected to a solid ground plane with ≥6 thermal vias under the exposed pad. Actual thermal performance depends on copper area and airflow.

Can the TPS73701DCQG4 be used without connecting the EN pin?

No-the EN pin of the TPS73701DCQG4 must not be left floating. If unused, it must be tied directly to IN to ensure reliable enablement. Leaving EN unconnected risks erratic startup behavior or failure to regulate due to noise-induced toggling. TI explicitly states this requirement in Table 4-1 Pin Functions and Section 6.3.3.

What is the output voltage range supported by the TPS73701DCQG4?

The TPS73701DCQG4 supports an adjustable output voltage range of 1.20 V to 5.5 V, set using an external resistor divider connected to the FB pin. The internal reference is 1.204 V (typical), and the datasheet specifies R1 + R2 = 80 kΩ for optimal accuracy. Output voltages below 1.20 V are not supported or guaranteed.