STMicroelectronics L78M12CDT-TR Linear Voltage Regulator

Reliable Power Management with STMicroelectronics L78M12CDT-TR Linear Regulator

Engineered for precision and stability in modern electronic systems, the STMicroelectronics L78M12CDT-TR linear voltage regulator represents a benchmark in fixed-output power management solutions. This surface-mount regulator delivers a consistent 12V output with up to 500mA current capacity, packaged in a thermally efficient DPAK configuration that makes it ideal for space-constrained applications requiring robust performance.

Technical Excellence in Voltage Regulation

Operating within a wide 4.75V to 35V input voltage range, this single-channel regulator maintains exceptional line and load regulation through its advanced internal circuitry. The device's 55dB PSRR (Power Supply Rejection Ratio) at 120Hz ensures clean output voltage even under fluctuating input conditions, making it particularly valuable in audio amplification and sensor interface applications where signal integrity is critical.

Key performance characteristics include:

Comprehensive Protection Architecture

Designed with industrial reliability in mind, the L78M12CDT-TR incorporates multiple safety features to ensure system longevity. Its integrated thermal shutdown circuitry prevents damage from excessive junction temperatures, while the built-in current limiting protects against overloads and short circuits. These safeguards make it particularly suitable for automotive environments and industrial control systems where component failure could have significant operational consequences.

Thermal Performance and Mounting

The TO-252-3 package combines low thermal resistance with surface-mount compatibility, enabling efficient heat dissipation without requiring additional cooling components. With a thermal resistance (RthJA) of 50°C/W, designers can achieve optimal thermal performance using standard PCB layout techniques. The device's surface-mount design also facilitates automated assembly processes, reducing manufacturing costs in high-volume production environments.

Design Flexibility Across Applications

This versatile regulator finds application in diverse electronic systems ranging from consumer electronics to industrial instrumentation. Typical use cases include:

• Power supply for microcontroller-based systems
• Reference voltage generation for ADC/DAC circuits
• Stabilized voltage source for sensor interfaces
• Rail generation in telecommunications equipment
• Local voltage regulation in distributed power systems

Its ability to maintain regulation with minimal input-to-output differential voltage (though not classified as a LDO) allows designers to optimize system efficiency while minimizing component count. When paired with appropriate input/output capacitors, the device ensures stable operation across its entire load range.

Environmental Compliance and Packaging

Available in tape-and-reel packaging (TR) for automated handling, this RoHS-compliant device meets modern environmental standards while maintaining industrial-grade reliability. The packaging format supports efficient inventory management and seamless integration with pick-and-place manufacturing equipment, making it particularly attractive for large-scale production runs.

Tags: Power Management IC, Surface Mount Regulator, Industrial Voltage Control, Analog Circuit Component