Renesas UPC2906T-AZ

Overview

UPC2906T-AZ from Renesas Electronics is a three-terminal low-dropout positive voltage regulator with PNP output transistor, delivering 1.0 A output current at 6.0 V with typical dropout voltage of 0.7 V. It features on-chip over-current, thermal shutdown, and safe operating area protection, and is used in industrial power supplies requiring stable 6 V rail generation under tight input-output differentials.

For engineers reviewing the UPC2906T-AZ datasheet, UPC2906T-AZ pinout, UPC2906T-AZ application, or UPC2906T-AZ equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout performance at 1 A load, thermal resistance (R_th(J-A) = 125 °C/W), Pb-free SC-63 (MP-3Z) package compatibility, and guaranteed output voltage tolerance (±4% over temperature and load).

Technical Context

The UPC2906T-AZ implements a PNP-based LDO architecture with internal reference voltage, error amplifier, drive circuit, and multiple protection blocks including saturation protection, thermal shutdown, and SOA limiting. Its design eliminates the need for external compensation and supports operation across –30°C to +85°C ambient.

It requires minimum 0.1 µF input capacitance (C_IN) and 47 µF output capacitance (C_OUT) with low-impedance electrolytic or ceramic types placed within 1–2 cm of pins. Reverse-voltage protection mandates external Schottky diode between GND and OUTPUT if OUTPUT may fall below GND.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

UPC2906T-AZ uses the SC-63 (MP-3Z) surface-mount package - a 4-pin, isolated plastic case with exposed metal fin (pin 4) serving as GND and thermal path. Pin 2 is cut; pins 2 and 4 are internally common GND terminals.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar low-dropout voltage regulator applications.

Compared with UPC2906T-E1-AZ, UPC2906T-AZ offers identical regulation performance but in bulk packaging for prototyping or low-volume builds; compared with UPC2906HB-AZ, it shares output specs but differs in mechanical form factor and thermal pad implementation-requiring PCB redesign for substitution.

Availability

UPC2906T-AZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC I/O modules, embedded motor control boards, and test & measurement equipment requiring stable component supply with RoHS compliance and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for UPC2906T-AZ 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

Renesas Electronics Corporation is a global semiconductor leader formed in 2010 via merger of NEC Electronics and Renesas Technology, specializing in microcontrollers, analog, and power management solutions.

The µPC29xx Series was designed specifically for industrial and commercial applications needing robust, low-cost, fixed-output LDO regulators with integrated protection-targeting systems where reliability under thermal and overload stress is critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum input voltage required for stable operation of the UPC2906T-AZ?

The UPC2906T-AZ requires a minimum input voltage of 7 V to maintain regulated 6.0 V output across full load (0–1 A) and temperature (–30°C to +85°C ambient). This ensures sufficient headroom above the 0.7 V typical dropout voltage while accounting for line regulation and thermal drift. Operation below 7 V risks output droop or dropout under load.

Does the UPC2906T-AZ require external capacitors, and what are the recommended values?

Yes, the UPC2906T-AZ requires both input and output capacitors. A minimum 0.1 µF film or C0G ceramic capacitor must be placed at the INPUT pin to prevent parasitic oscillation; a minimum 47 µF low-impedance electrolytic capacitor is required at OUTPUT to ensure stability and improve load regulation. Both must be located within 1–2 cm of their respective pins.

How does the thermal protection in the UPC2906T-AZ operate during overload conditions?

The UPC2906T-AZ incorporates an internal thermal shutdown circuit that disables the output when junction temperature exceeds +150°C. The device remains latched off until the junction cools below the hysteresis threshold (~135°C), then automatically resumes regulation. This protects against permanent damage during sustained overload or inadequate heatsinking.

Can the UPC2906T-AZ be used in applications where the output voltage may fall below ground potential?

No-applying a voltage lower than GND to the OUTPUT pin can damage the UPC2906T-AZ. If the load may pull OUTPUT below GND (e.g., inductive kickback), a Schottky barrier diode must be connected from GND to OUTPUT (cathode to OUTPUT) to clamp negative excursions and protect the internal PNP pass transistor.

What is the significance of the "-AZ" suffix in UPC2906T-AZ?

"-AZ" denotes a Pb-free variant of the UPC2906T-AZ with no lead content in the external electrodes, compliant with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. It is qualified for infrared reflow soldering with peak package surface temperature up to 260°C for ≤60 seconds at ≥220°C, supporting modern lead-free manufacturing processes.