Renesas UPC2908T-E1-AY

Overview

UPC2908T-E1-AY from Renesas Electronics is a three-terminal, PNP-based low dropout linear voltage regulator delivering 8.0 V at up to 1.0 A output current with a typical dropout voltage of 0.7 V at full load. It integrates on-chip over-current, thermal shutdown, and safe operating area (SOA) protection circuits, and is packaged in SC-63 (MP-3Z) for surface-mount applications in industrial power supplies and embedded systems.

For engineers reviewing the UPC2908T-E1-AY datasheet, UPC2908T-E1-AY pinout, UPC2908T-E1-AY application, or UPC2908T-E1-AY equivalent, key selection considerations include its 9–18 V input range, ±4% output voltage tolerance over temperature and load, 145 µV_r.m.s. output noise, 42–58 dB ripple rejection, and Pb-free Sn100% plating compatibility with IR60-00-3 reflow profiles.

Technical Context

The UPC2908T-E1-AY uses a PNP pass transistor architecture to achieve low dropout performance-unlike conventional NPN-based regulators-enabling stable regulation even when input voltage approaches output voltage. Its internal error amplifier compares a bandgap-referenced feedback signal against the output, driving the PNP transistor via a dedicated drive circuit with saturation and SOA protection.

Thermal management is enforced by junction-to-case thermal resistance of 12.5°C/W and junction-to-ambient of 125°C/W, with automatic shutdown triggered above +150°C junction temperature. The device requires external 0.1 µF input and ≥47 µF low-impedance output capacitors placed within 1–2 cm of pins to ensure stability and transient response.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

UPC2908T-E1-AY is housed in the SC-63 (MP-3Z) surface-mount package-a 4-pin, isolated plastic case with integrated metal fin for thermal conduction. Pin 1 is INPUT, Pin 2 is GND (cut), Pin 3 is OUTPUT, and Pin 4 is GND (Fin); Pins 2 and 4 are internally common ground connections.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with UPC2908T-E1-AZ, UPC2908T-E1-AY offers superior long-term reliability in humid or corrosive environments due to Sn100% plating, while TLV76780DRVR provides lower dropout and higher PSRR but cannot replace UPC2908T-E1-AY in 12 V input applications without redesign.

Availability

UPC2908T-E1-AY is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, embedded control, and test equipment requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and proven thermal robustness in extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for UPC2908T-E1-AY 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 through the merger of NEC Electronics and Renesas Technology, specializing in microcontrollers, analog, and power management ICs.

The µPC29xx series-including UPC2908T-E1-AY-is designed for cost-sensitive, high-reliability industrial power regulation where low dropout, integrated protection, and wide-input-voltage operation are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for UPC2908T-E1-AY?

The absolute maximum input voltage for UPC2908T-E1-AY is 18 V, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. Operation above this voltage-even momentarily-may cause permanent damage. For reliable long-term use, the recommended input range is 9–18 V per the Recommended Operating Conditions, ensuring stable 8.0 V regulation across full load and temperature.

Does UPC2908T-E1-AY require an input capacitor, and what type is recommended?

Yes, UPC2908T-E1-AY requires a minimum 0.1 µF input capacitor placed within 1–2 cm of the INPUT and GND pins to prevent parasitic oscillation. A film capacitor is preferred for stability, but laminated ceramic capacitors are acceptable if rated ≥0.1 µF across the full operating voltage and temperature range. This requirement is explicitly stated in the Typical Connection diagram and Caution notes.

How does the thermal shutdown feature operate in UPC2908T-E1-AY?

UPC2908T-E1-AY incorporates an internal thermal shutdown circuit that disables the output when junction temperature exceeds +150°C. The device remains off until the junction cools sufficiently-typically with hysteresis-to allow safe restart. This behavior is confirmed in the Absolute Maximum Ratings note and Block Diagram, protecting against sustained overload or inadequate heatsinking.

Can UPC2908T-E1-AY be used in automotive applications?

No-UPC2908T-E1-AY is rated for "Standard" quality grade per Renesas documentation, intended for office equipment, industrial robots, and communications gear-not automotive or safety-critical systems. Its operating ambient range (–30°C to +85°C) and lack of AEC-Q100 qualification exclude it from under-hood or chassis applications without additional system-level validation and derating.

What is the purpose of Pin 2 being cut in the SC-63 package of UPC2908T-E1-AY?

In the SC-63 (MP-3Z) package, Pin 2 is physically cut but electrically connected internally to Pin 4 (GND Fin). This design allows the metal fin (Pin 4) to serve as the primary thermal and ground path while eliminating a redundant lead-reducing package stress and improving manufacturability. The datasheet explicitly states "No.2 pin is cut. No.2 pin and No.4 fin are common GND," confirming this intentional mechanical configuration.