Renesas UPC29M08T-AZ

Overview

UPC29M08T-AZ from Renesas Electronics is a three-terminal low-dropout positive voltage regulator with PNP output transistor, delivering up to 0.5 A output current at 8.0 V nominal output, 0.5 V typical dropout (IO = 0.5 A), and integrated over-current, thermal, and safe-operating-area protection. It serves as a primary power supply for microcontroller peripherals in industrial control modules requiring stable 8 V bias under varying load and input conditions.

For engineers reviewing the UPC29M08T-AZ datasheet, UPC29M08T-AZ pinout, UPC29M08T-AZ application, or UPC29M08T-AZ equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage at full load, thermal resistance (Rth(J-A) = 125°C/W), SC-63 (MP-3Z) surface-mount package compatibility, and Pb-free RoHS-compliant construction.

Technical Context

The UPC29M08T-AZ employs a PNP pass transistor architecture enabling lower dropout than conventional NPN-based regulators, with internal start-up circuitry, error amplifier, drive stage, and multiple protection blocks-including saturation protection, thermal shutdown, and SOA limiting-integrated into a single bipolar analog IC die. Its design targets fixed-output DC/DC conversion where input-to-output differential is constrained.

It operates across –30°C to +85°C ambient, supports input voltages from 9 V to 18 V, and maintains output regulation within ±4% (7.6 V to 8.4 V) over full temperature and load range (0–0.5 A). Ripple rejection is 42–58 dB at 120 Hz, and output noise is 150 µV_r.m.s. (10 Hz–100 kHz).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

UPC29M08T-AZ uses the SC-63 (MP-3Z) 4-pin surface-mount package: isolated tab (Pin 4) functions as GND fin, Pin 2 is cut but internally connected to Pin 4, and Pins 1–3 are INPUT, GND, OUTPUT respectively. The package supports tape-and-reel (2000 pcs/reel) and Pb-free Sn100% plating.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with UPC29M08T-AZ, UPC29M08T-E1-AZ offers identical performance in a functionally interchangeable tape format, while TLV1117-8.0CDR trades robustness and thermal safety for higher current and CMOS efficiency-making it suitable only where external protection and layout control are guaranteed.

Availability

UPC29M08T-AZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, automotive body electronics, medical handheld diagnostics, and test equipment requiring stable component supply with RoHS-compliant, Pb-free construction and surface-mount manufacturability.

Supply support for UPC29M08T-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 power, and connectivity solutions.

The µPC29Mxx series was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability industrial and consumer applications requiring fixed-output LDOs with robust built-in protection and wide input voltage tolerance-targeting systems where simplicity, safety, and long-term supply stability are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage rating for the UPC29M08T-AZ?

The absolute maximum input voltage for the UPC29M08T-AZ is 20 V. However, the recommended operating input voltage range is 9 V to 18 V per the datasheet's Recommended Operating Conditions table. Exceeding 18 V may degrade long-term reliability or trigger internal protection, and operation above 20 V risks permanent damage. Always verify actual system rail tolerances before final design.

Does the UPC29M08T-AZ require an input bypass capacitor, and what value is recommended?

Yes, the UPC29M08T-AZ requires a minimum 0.1 µF input capacitor (CIN) placed within 1–2 cm of the INPUT pin to prevent parasitic oscillation. Film or high-quality ceramic capacitors are preferred; if using laminated ceramic, ensure capacitance remains ≥0.1 µF across the full operating voltage and temperature range. This requirement is explicitly stated in the Typical Connection diagram and Caution notes of the datasheet.

How does the thermal shutdown behavior of the UPC29M08T-AZ work?

The UPC29M08T-AZ features internal thermal shutdown that activates when junction temperature exceeds 150°C, disabling output until TJ falls below the hysteresis threshold (~135°C). This protection is independent of load current and is part of the "Thermal shut down" block in the device's block diagram. Recovery is automatic once thermally stabilized-no reset or external intervention is needed.

Can the UPC29M08T-AZ be used in automotive applications, and what quality grade applies?

The UPC29M08T-AZ is classified as a "Standard" quality grade device per Renesas documentation, intended for applications including industrial robots, office equipment, and test/measurement gear-not for automotive safety-critical systems. While it operates across –30°C to +85°C ambient, it lacks AEC-Q100 qualification and is not approved for use in transportation equipment without explicit written consent from Renesas Electronics.

What is the purpose of Pin 2 being cut on the UPC29M08T-AZ SC-63 package?

Pin 2 on the UPC29M08T-AZ is mechanically cut but internally connected to Pin 4 (GND Fin), serving solely as a structural anchor during leadframe fabrication. It has no electrical function and must not be soldered or contacted in the PCB layout. The datasheet explicitly states "No.2 pin is cut" and clarifies that only Pins 1 (INPUT), 3 (OUTPUT), and 4 (GND Fin) are active terminals-ensuring correct assembly and avoiding unintended shorts.