REG102NA-3.3/250

Linear voltage regulators serve the purpose of providing a constant voltage to the load. REG102NA-3.3/250 is one such voltage regulator. It belongs to the category of low dropout (LDO) voltage regulator, also called as low quiescent current (LQC) regulator. Manufactured by Texas Instruments, this device is used mainly in portable and battery powered applications. It is an adjustable voltage regulator that offers an output voltage range of 2.2 V to 5.0 V. This voltage regulator also offers output current capability up to 250 mA, proving to be a versatile solution.

Features

The voltage regulator REG102NA-3.3/250 offers some unparalleled features for its targeted applications. The very low dropout of 200 mV thrills the portable, battery powered devices and keeps a good balance between the battery voltage level and the output voltage. With such a low dropout voltage, the output voltage remains very much intact even after displacement of the battery voltage range. This device accordingly adjusts the output voltage accordingly to maintain the power source to the load. The circuit includes current sharing and thermal regulation designs, thus making it an efficient regulator. Furthermore, the device has thermal shutdown feature that helps to shut-down the device in case if the junction temperature exceeds its operation limit.

Applications

The REG102NA-3.3/250 voltage regulator offers excellent features which are suitable for applications that require low power dissipation, like LCD bias, portable equipment, battery powered equipment, RS232 and other hand-held instruments. There are basically two main fields where the applications of this voltage regulator can be seen. First, it can be used in the medical field such as medical instruments, monitors and measuring devices, where accuracy and low power are primary concern. Second, it is ideal for applications in industrial and automotive industry, like microphones, cameras, audio amplifiers and electronic toys.

Working Principle

The basic working principle of the REG102NA-3.3/250 voltage regulator stays the same what is applicable to all linear voltage regulators. The input voltage is supplied to the regulator from a power source, like battery or a wall outlet. The voltage regulator runs a comparison between the input voltage and the programmed output voltage. If the output voltage required for the load is greater than the input voltage, the regulator attenuates the current and limits to provide a regulated output voltage. The excess current is dropped off as heat.

The main component of the device is an error amplifier, also known as “chopper”. It forms a feedback loop with a regulated series element or a resistor and alters the frequency of the chopper oscillator. This frequency is used to control the device’s output voltage. The REG102NA-3.3/250 also has a power transistor, which is the major component at the output end. This device helps in providing an adequate current to the load and keeping the output voltage level constant.

Conclusion

The REG102NA-3.3/250 voltage regulator is an efficient device preferred for its low power dissipation and safe operation capabilities. This voltage regulator can also be integrated in various applications, owing to its adjustable output voltage range. The device also shows some advanced features including current sharing and thermal regulation, which add to its usability. In conclusion, the REG102NA-3.3/250 voltage regulator is a compact and feature-packed solution that offers stable output voltage and current to the load.