Diodes Incorporated ZR78L052GTA

Overview

ZR78L052GTA from Zetex Semiconductors (now Diodes Incorporated) is a fixed-output 5.2 V positive linear voltage regulator in SOT223 package, designed for local regulation in space-constrained PCBs. It delivers up to 200 mA output current with ±2.5% initial output voltage tolerance, 350 µA typical quiescent current, and operates across –55°C to +125°C ambient temperature - ideal for industrial sensor nodes requiring stable low-power biasing.

For engineers reviewing the ZR78L052GTA datasheet, ZR78L052GTA pinout, ZR78L052GTA application, or ZR78L052GTA equivalent, key selection criteria include dropout voltage at 200 mA (≤2.0 V), thermal shutdown behavior under overload, ripple rejection of 48–62 dB at 120 Hz, and stability without external compensation components.

Technical Context

The ZR78L052GTA implements a monolithic three-terminal linear regulator architecture with internal current limiting and thermal foldback protection. Its feedback loop is fully integrated, eliminating need for external resistors or capacitors to maintain regulation.

It achieves tight load regulation (≤25 mV over 1–100 mA) and line regulation (≤40 mV over input range 7.2–20 V), with output noise of only 75 µV_rms (10 Hz–10 kHz). The device remains stable with zero external components due to internal compensation and low output impedance across frequency.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT223 package (suffix G): 4-pin thermally enhanced surface-mount outline with exposed thermal pad (pin 4); pin 4 is internally connected to pin 2 (output) or may be left floating per design. Standard pinout: Pin 1 = Input, Pin 2 = Output, Pin 3 = Ground, Pin 4 = Output (thermal tab).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar fixed-output linear regulator applications.

Compared with TLV70552DBVR and MCP1703T-5202E/MB, ZR78L052GTA offers broader temperature range (–55°C to +125°C), higher absolute input rating (20 V), and unconditional stability - making it uniquely suited for ruggedized embedded systems where reliability trumps ultra-low IQ.

Availability

ZR78L052GTA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor nodes, automotive body electronics, medical front-end modules, and smart energy meter auxiliary supplies requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for ZR78L052GTA 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

Zetex Semiconductors, acquired by Diodes Incorporated in 2008, specialized in high-reliability analog and power management ICs for industrial and automotive markets.

The ZR78L Series was engineered for robust local regulation in harsh environments - emphasizing thermal resilience, wide input range, and no-compensation stability over ultra-low IQ or ultra-tight tolerance.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable input voltage for ZR78L052GTA?

The absolute maximum input voltage is 20 V DC, as specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. Operation above this level risks permanent damage. For reliable long-term function, input should be limited to ≤18 V under worst-case transient conditions, especially when paired with inductive sources that may generate overshoot during thermal shutdown events.

Does ZR78L052GTA require an input or output capacitor?

No external capacitors are required for stability - the device is internally compensated and remains stable with zero output capacitance. However, a 1 µF ceramic capacitor on the input is strongly recommended to suppress high-frequency noise and prevent voltage overshoot during thermal shutdown recovery, particularly when sourced from inductive supplies.

How does thermal shutdown behave during continuous overload?

Under sustained overload, the device enters thermal shutdown when junction temperature exceeds its design limit (~160°C), ceasing regulation. Once the die cools below the hysteresis threshold (~140°C), regulation automatically resumes. This cycle repeats until fault condition clears - protecting the IC but potentially causing output voltage interruption visible to downstream circuitry.

Can ZR78L052GTA be used in adjustable configuration?

No - ZR78L052GTA is a fixed-output device with internal feedback divider. Unlike adjustable regulators (e.g., LM317), it lacks ADJ or REF pins. To achieve non-standard voltages, select the appropriate ZR78L variant (e.g., ZR78L048 for 4.85 V, ZR78L057 for 5.7 V) from the same series, all sharing identical thermal and electrical characteristics.