Texas Instruments TPS79230DBVRG4

Overview

TPS79230DBVRG4 from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output 3.0 V, 100 mA ultra-low-noise low-dropout linear regulator in SOT-23-5 package, featuring 55 mV typical dropout at full load, 69 μV_RMS output noise (100 Hz–100 kHz), and 64 dB PSRR at 100 kHz - designed for powering RF analog circuits, precision ADCs, and PLLs in battery-operated portable electronics.

For engineers reviewing the TPS79230DBVRG4 datasheet, TPS79230DBVRG4 pinout, TPS79230DBVRG4 application, or TPS79230DBVRG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include output noise performance under 100 mA load, enable-input logic thresholds (0.425 V low, 0.85 V high for new chip), thermal derating above 85°C, and compatibility with 2.2 µF ceramic output capacitors without external compensation.

Technical Context

The TPS79230DBVRG4 implements a PMOS pass transistor architecture with integrated bandgap reference, undervoltage lockout (UVLO) activation at 1.32–1.6 V, and active-high enable control. It operates across –40°C to +125°C junction temperature with internal thermal shutdown triggered at ~165°C and automatic recovery at ~140°C.

This device uses a hybrid brickwall-foldback current-limit scheme: 320–460 mA brickwall limit above 1.2 V output, transitioning to short-circuit current limit of 175 mA when V_OUT drops below 1.2 V. The new-chip revision omits the NR pin and adds active discharge via internal pulldown MOSFET upon shutdown.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-23-5 (DBV) package: 2.9 mm × 2.8 mm footprint, 1.45 mm height, thermally enhanced bottom paddle (GND-connected). Pin 1 = IN, Pin 2 = GND, Pin 3 = EN, Pin 4 = OUT, Pin 5 = NC/NR (no-connect for TPS79230DBVRG4 - internally unconnected).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TPS79230DBVRG4, TPS7A2030PDQNR offers superior noise and current capability but lacks active discharge; MCP1700T-3002E/MB provides ultra-low I_Q and cost advantage but sacrifices PSRR above 10 kHz and enable functionality - choice depends on priority among noise, current, I_Q, and system-level sequencing needs.

Availability

TPS79230DBVRG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone RF front-ends, portable medical sensors, and industrial IoT wireless nodes requiring stable component supply with guaranteed long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for TPS79230DBVRG4 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 over 50 years of power management innovation.

The TPS792xx family was engineered for noise-sensitive, battery-powered applications demanding ultra-low output noise, fast transient response, and reliable enable-controlled operation - targeting RF, precision analog, and portable consumer electronics.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the TPS79230DBVRG4?

The TPS79230DBVRG4 has an absolute maximum input voltage of 6.5 V. However, its recommended operating input voltage range is 2.7 V to 5.5 V. Exceeding 5.5 V may cause permanent damage or violate safe operating area limits, especially under high load or elevated temperature conditions. Always observe the 6.5 V absolute max rating as a hard limit - not a functional specification.

Does the TPS79230DBVRG4 require an external noise reduction capacitor?

No, the TPS79230DBVRG4 does not require an external noise reduction capacitor. Pin 5 (NC/NR) is internally unconnected in this new-chip revision. The 69 μV_RMS output noise is achieved without external NR components - unlike legacy TPS792 variants that used a dedicated NR pin with 0.01 µF capacitor. Adding capacitance to Pin 5 provides no benefit and may impair thermal performance.

Can the TPS79230DBVRG4 safely drive a 10 µF ceramic output capacitor?

Yes, the TPS79230DBVRG4 is stable with output capacitances from 2.2 µF to 10 µF, including 10 µF X7R/X5R ceramic capacitors. The device's internal compensation is optimized for 2.2 µF minimum, and larger values improve transient response and PSRR at low frequencies. Ensure effective capacitance remains ≥2.2 µF at DC bias - derating must be verified per capacitor manufacturer's datasheet.

What is the purpose of the active discharge feature in the TPS79230DBVRG4?

The active discharge feature in the TPS79230DBVRG4 uses an internal pulldown MOSFET to rapidly discharge the output capacitor when the EN pin is driven low. This prevents residual voltage hold-up on the 3.0 V rail during system sleep or reset sequences - critical for avoiding back-powering of downstream logic or violating absolute maximum ratings of other ICs sharing the same net. Discharge time depends on C_OUT value and load.

How does the TPS79230DBVRG4 behave during input undervoltage conditions?

The TPS79230DBVRG4 incorporates undervoltage lockout (UVLO) with a rising threshold of 1.32–1.6 V and 130 mV hysteresis. When VIN falls below the UVLO threshold, the regulator disables output and draws ≤1 μA shutdown current. Output resumes only after VIN exceeds the rising threshold and internal circuitry re-stabilizes - preventing erratic behavior or brownout-induced resets in battery-powered systems.