Texas Instruments TPS77401DGK

Overview

TPS77401DGK from Texas Instruments is an adjustable 250-mA low-dropout (LDO) voltage regulator with integrated open-drain power-good (PG) output, 8-pin MSOP (DGK) package, 92-µA quiescent current, 200-mV dropout at 250 mA (for 3.3-V variant), and 55-µVrms output noise without external bypass capacitor. It serves as a precision supply rail generator in battery-powered microcontroller systems requiring stable, low-noise biasing.

For engineers reviewing the TPS77401DGK datasheet, TPS77401DGK pinout, TPS77401DGK application, or TPS77401DGK equivalent, key selection criteria include its programmable output range (1.5 V to 5.5 V), PG threshold hysteresis (82% VO trip with ~0.5% hysteresis), thermal shutdown protection, fast transient response, and compatibility with low-ESR ceramic or tantalum output capacitors (≥1 µF).

Technical Context

The TPS77401DGK uses a PMOS pass element enabling ultra-low quiescent current (92 µA typical across 0–250 mA load) and dropout voltage directly proportional to output current. Its internal 1.183-V reference feeds a high-gain error amplifier controlling the pass device.

Power-good monitoring is implemented via an internal comparator comparing OUT to 82% of regulated voltage; PG asserts low when OUT falls below this threshold and releases high-impedance when OUT recovers above it. The FB/SENSE pin accepts an external resistor divider for output programming, with 1-µA input bias current and 2% total output tolerance over line, load, and temperature.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TPS77401DGK is housed in an 8-pin MSOP (DGK) package - 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm, 0.65 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad (not electrically connected), RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS77401DGK, TPS7A4700RGWR delivers superior noise performance but increases footprint and cost, while MCP1826T-3302E/DB sacrifices adjustability and supervision for higher current and lower price - making TPS77401DGK optimal for compact, battery-sensitive systems needing flexible, monitored regulation.

Availability

TPS77401DGK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical sensors, industrial PLC I/O modules, and automotive body control units requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term availability.

Supply support for TPS77401DGK 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 delivering analog, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions for industrial, automotive, and personal electronics markets.

The TPS774xx family was designed specifically for space-constrained, battery-operated systems needing low-quiescent-current LDOs with integrated power-good monitoring - targeting applications where reliability, efficiency, and minimal external components are critical.

FAQ

What output voltage range does the TPS77401DGK support?

The TPS77401DGK supports an adjustable output voltage range from 1.5 V to 5.5 V, set using an external resistor divider connected to the FB/SENSE pin. The internal reference voltage is 1.183 V, and output tolerance is ±2% over line, load, and temperature. This makes TPS77401DGK suitable for custom rail generation where fixed-output LDOs would require multiple SKUs.

How does the power-good (PG) function operate in the TPS77401DGK?

The TPS77401DGK's PG pin is an open-drain, active-high output that transitions to low-impedance when the regulated output falls below 82% of its nominal value, and returns to high-impedance when output recovers above that threshold. It features ~0.5% hysteresis to prevent chatter during marginal conditions. A pullup resistor is required, and PG is fully functional across the –40°C to +125°C junction temperature range.

What is the minimum output capacitance required for stability with the TPS77401DGK?

The TPS77401DGK requires a minimum 1-µF output capacitor with appropriate ESR, or a 10-µF low-ESR ceramic/tantalum capacitor. Stability depends on capacitor ESR falling within defined regions shown in Figures 18–21 of the datasheet. Ceramic X5R/X7R types are recommended; Y5U/Z5U dielectrics are discouraged due to excessive temperature drift affecting ESR margins.

Does the TPS77401DGK include thermal protection?

Yes, the TPS77401DGK includes thermal shutdown protection that activates at approximately 144°C junction temperature. When triggered, the device disables the pass element until junction temperature falls below the hysteresis threshold (~15°C below trip point). This safeguard prevents permanent damage during overload or poor heatsinking conditions, and is fully specified across the –40°C to +125°C operating range.

Can the TPS77401DGK be used with a single-cell Li-ion battery input?

Yes, the TPS77401DGK supports input voltages as low as 2.7 V, making it compatible with single-cell Li-ion batteries (2.7–4.2 V). With a 3.3-V output configuration, its typical 200-mV dropout allows regulation down to ~3.5 V input - covering most of the battery discharge curve. For deeper discharge support, configure for lower output voltages (e.g., 1.8 V), where dropout remains proportionally low due to the PMOS architecture.