Texas Instruments UCC384DP-12

Overview

UCC384DP-12 from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output, negative low-dropout linear regulator delivering –12 V at up to 0.5 A with 0.15 V typical dropout at full load, 200–350 µA quiescent current, and integrated short-circuit protection with 2.5% duty-cycle pulsing. It operates across –12.5 V to –15 V input and supports precision analog supply rails in dual-polarity instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the UCC384DP-12 datasheet, UCC384DP-12 pinout, UCC384DP-12 application, or UCC384DP-12 equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed –12 V output tolerance (±2.2%), dropout performance under 50 mA load (<15 mV), thermal shutdown at 140°C, and SD/CT pin logic-compatible shutdown interface.

Technical Context

The UCC384DP-12 uses BCDMOS process technology to achieve low R_DS(on) and enable operation with only 0.15 V headroom at 0.5 A. Its internal charge pump activates only near dropout to sustain gate drive without increasing quiescent current unnecessarily.

Short-circuit response is governed by an external CT capacitor on the SD/CT pin, setting t_ON (300–700 µs), while t_OFF remains fixed at 40×t_ON, enforcing a 2.5% average duty cycle. Thermal shutdown engages at 140°C with 20°C hysteresis, and undervoltage lockout disables operation below –3.2 V input.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

UCC384DP-12 is housed in an 8-pin SOIC (DP) package with exposed pad for thermal enhancement. Pin 1 is VIN (negative input), Pin 2 is VIN, Pin 3 is SD/CT (shutdown/timing), Pin 4 is VOUT (regulated –12 V output), Pin 5 is GND, Pin 6 is VOUTS (feedback sense), Pin 7 is VIN, Pin 8 is VIN - all VIN pins are internally bonded and must be bypassed together to GND with ≥1 µF low-ESR capacitance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LTC1966IS8#PBF and LM2991T, UCC384DP-12 delivers superior dropout (0.15 V vs. ≥0.35 V), lower quiescent current (220 µA vs. ≥5 mA), and autonomous short-circuit protection-making it optimal for space-constrained, thermally sensitive, and fault-resilient analog power designs.

Availability

UCC384DP-12 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial data acquisition systems, test & measurement equipment, and medical imaging signal chains requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for UCC384DP-12 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 ICs, with decades of expertise in high-reliability linear regulators and precision power solutions.

The UCC384 family was engineered specifically for low-noise, low-dropout negative supply generation in dual-rail analog systems-prioritizing thermal resilience, fault autonomy, and minimal quiescent power in harsh industrial environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for UCC384DP-12?

The absolute maximum input voltage for UCC384DP-12 is –16 V, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. Operation beyond this voltage risks permanent damage. The recommended operating input range is –12.5 V to –15 V for stable –12 V output regulation. Exceeding –16 V violates device reliability limits and voids warranty coverage per TI's production data sheet SLUS234D.

Does UCC384DP-12 require an external capacitor on the SD/CT pin for normal operation?

Yes, UCC384DP-12 requires a capacitor between SD/CT and GND to set t_ON for short-circuit protection-0.015 µF is the typical value used in evaluation circuits. Without it, the device cannot enter controlled pulsing mode during overcurrent events and may overheat. The capacitor must not be connected to VIN, as that risks damaging the SD/CT pin during power-up per datasheet note on page 5.

Can UCC384DP-12 be used with a –12.2 V input supply?

No-UCC384DP-12 requires a minimum input of –12.5 V to maintain regulation at –12 V output. At –12.2 V input, the 0.15 V dropout margin is violated, causing the output to collapse. The datasheet specifies –12.5 V as the lower limit of the input voltage range for the –12 V variant; operation below this results in unregulated output and potential instability.

What is the purpose of the VOUTS pin on UCC384DP-12?

The VOUTS pin on UCC384DP-12 provides Kelvin-sense feedback for remote load regulation. When connected directly to the load instead of VOUT, it compensates for IR drop in output traces, improving load regulation to ±0.1%. For local regulation, VOUTS is shorted to VOUT. This pin is essential for maintaining accuracy in systems with long or high-current output paths, such as PLC I/O modules.

How does thermal shutdown behave on UCC384DP-12 during sustained overload?

UCC384DP-12 triggers thermal shutdown at 140°C junction temperature and remains off until the die cools to 120°C (20°C hysteresis). During sustained overload, short-circuit pulsing (2.5% duty cycle) reduces average power, delaying thermal trip-but if ambient or layout limits heat dissipation, shutdown will occur. Recovery is automatic once temperature falls below 120°C, with no latch-up or manual reset required.