LP3964ES-2.5

The LP3964ES-2.5 is a low-noise, low-dropout (LDO) linear voltage regulator part from National Semiconductor that can deliver up to 400mA of output current from a single supply. The device is designed to minimize the power dissipation while delivering smooth, accurate output voltage without glitches or inrush current. It has a wide input voltage range and is suitable for use in a variety of applications, ranging from portable and battery-powered devices to communications and automotive applications.

The LP3964ES-2.5 is a perfect choice for applications where space and power are at a premium such as handheld or mobile products. It is a high-performance, cost-effective solution compared to discrete solutions like MOSFETs and BJTs. The device also features reverse-current protection and is available in surface-mount and through-hole packages.

The LP3964ES-2.5’s application field is broad and can be used to regulate voltage in general-purpose applications including, but not limited to, laptop PCs and other applications where portability is vital. Its wide input voltage range and low dropout voltage make it an ideal solution for low power applications such as memory backup systems and digital cameras. The device can also be used as a battery-back up charge booster for portable computers and mobile phones. Other potential applications include DVD players and LCD monitors.

The LP3964ES-2.5 is a linear voltage regulator and its working principle involves localizing the output impedance to keep the output voltage constant despite the changes in line and load. It works by comparing the difference between the output voltage and the reference voltage to drive a differential amplifier. The output of this differential amplifier then drives the pass element. The pass element is usually a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or an N-MOSFET, which delivers the current output needed for the desired voltage drop.

The LP3964ES-2.5 features an internal thermal overload protection that safeguards the device in case of excess power dissipation. It also boasts a high power supply rejection ratio of 90 dB, making it resistant to input voltage noise. An onboard band-gap reference provides stability and precision, while the additional active current limit protection feature provides reliable protection against a short circuit.

For added protection against voltage transients, the LP3964ES-2.5 supports an external capacitor input that can be used to configure the filter time constants. This provides noise filtering and a higher input impedance in applications with DC/DC converters or other high-frequency switching power supplies. An additional feature of the device is its soft-start feature that ensures an entry of current during initial powering up, protecting the device from overloading.

The LP3964ES-2.5 is a low-cost, efficient and reliable linear voltage regulator with a wide range of application fields. It is suitable for portable, battery-powered products, backup charge boosters for digital cameras and portable computers and also can be used in LCD monitors and DVD players. With features such as reverse-current protection, thermal overload protection, high power supply rejection ratio, soft-start feature, and external capacitor input for noise filtering, the LP3964ES-2.5 is an excellent choice for LDO regulation.