Texas Instruments UCC384DP-5

Overview

UCC384DP-5 from Texas Instruments is a fixed-output, negative low-dropout linear regulator delivering –5 V at up to 0.5 A with 0.2 V dropout at full load, 2.5% duty-cycle short-circuit protection, and thermal shutdown at 140°C. It operates across –3.2 V to –15 V input and targets precision analog supply rails in industrial instrumentation and dual-polarity power systems.

For engineers reviewing the UCC384DP-5 datasheet, UCC384DP-5 pinout, UCC384DP-5 application, or UCC384DP-5 equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed –5 V output accuracy (±2.5% over temperature), ultra-low quiescent current (<350 µA with charge pump enabled), logic-compatible shutdown interface (–0.7 V threshold), and SOIC-8 DP package compatibility with standard PCB layout practices.

Technical Context

The UCC384DP-5 employs BCDMOS process technology to achieve low R_DS(on) and integrates an internal charge pump that activates only near dropout to sustain gate drive for the series pass element. Its feedback loop uses the VOUTS pin for Kelvin sensing, enabling remote load regulation by moving lead resistance into the control path.

Short-circuit protection operates via programmable t_ON/t_OFF timing: a capacitor on SD/CT sets t_ON, while t_OFF is fixed at 40×t_ON, enforcing a 2.5% average duty cycle during sustained faults. Shutdown is implemented by pulling SD/CT above –0.7 V relative to GND, reducing quiescent current to ≤45 µA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

UCC384DP-5 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 negative output), Pin 5 is VIN, Pin 6 is VOUTS (feedback sense), Pin 7 is VIN, and Pin 8 is GND (low-noise ground reference).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM2990T-5.0 and LT1963A-5, the UCC384DP-5 uniquely delivers negative regulation with ultra-low dropout, integrated fault timing, and Kelvin feedback-all in a compact SOIC-8 package-making it irreplaceable in space-constrained, precision negative-rail systems.

Availability

UCC384DP-5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process transmitters, high-precision data acquisition systems, and bipolar power supplies requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for UCC384DP-5 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 and embedded processing technologies, with decades of expertise in power management IC design and manufacturing.

The UCC384DP-5 belongs to TI's UCC384 family of negative LDO regulators engineered specifically for low-quiescent-power, low-dropout operation in industrial and instrumentation applications demanding high accuracy and robust fault protection.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the UCC384DP-5?

The absolute maximum input voltage (VIN) for the UCC384DP-5 is –16 V, referenced to GND. Operation beyond this limit risks permanent device damage. The recommended operating range is –3.2 V to –15 V, ensuring reliable regulation and thermal performance. This range accommodates common negative supply rails while preserving the 0.2 V dropout capability at full 0.5 A load. Always observe derating guidelines for continuous operation near absolute maxima.

How does the UCC384DP-5 achieve 0.2 V dropout at 0.5 A?

The UCC384DP-5 achieves 0.2 V dropout at 0.5 A using a BCDMOS process and an integrated charge pump that activates only during dropout conditions to boost gate drive for the series pass element. This dynamic gate drive lowers effective R_DS(on), sustaining regulation with minimal headroom. The charge pump draws additional current only when needed-keeping quiescent current below 350 µA-so the UCC384DP-5 delivers both ultra-low dropout and low standby power simultaneously.

Can the UCC384DP-5 be used with remote sensing, and how is it implemented?

Yes, the UCC384DP-5 supports remote sensing via its dedicated VOUTS pin. To implement Kelvin sensing, connect VOUTS directly to the load's negative rail instead of the regulator's VOUT pin. This places PCB trace resistance inside the feedback loop, canceling IR drop errors. For the UCC384DP-5, VOUTS is internally tied to the –5 V reference divider, so no external resistors are needed-only the physical routing change. This preserves output accuracy under varying load currents without added components.

What is the purpose of the SD/CT pin on the UCC384DP-5, and how is it configured for shutdown?

The SD/CT pin on the UCC384DP-5 serves dual functions: logic-level shutdown control and short-circuit timing. For shutdown, pull SD/CT more positive than –0.7 V relative to GND (e.g., tie to system ground or +3.3 V) to reduce quiescent current to ≤45 µA. No external pull-up is required-the internal 50 kΩ source pulls SD/CT to –1.5 V during normal operation. This direct interface simplifies control with microcontrollers or logic gates without level shifters or additional passives.

Does the UCC384DP-5 require an external capacitor on the SD/CT pin, and what happens if it is omitted?

Yes, an external capacitor between SD/CT and GND is mandatory for short-circuit protection timing. Its value sets t_ON per t_ON = CT × 1 V / 40 µA. Omitting it disables pulsed fault limiting: during sustained overcurrent, the UCC384DP-5 enters thermal shutdown instead of 2.5% duty-cycle pulsing, increasing risk of thermal stress and requiring larger heatsinking. For basic regulation-only use without fault protection, the capacitor may be omitted-but this forfeits the key safety feature designed into the UCC384DP-5.