Linear Tech Launches Micropower 50mA Linear Regulator

Linear Technology Corporation has announced its LT3011, a high voltage micropower, low dropout regulator that delivers up to 50mA of continuous output current with a low dropout voltage of only 300mV at full load. The LT3011 features an input voltage range of 3V to 80V, delivering output voltages as low as 1.24V and up to 60V. The device’s PowerGood flag indicates output regulation. The 80V input voltage capability for automotive applications, 48V telecom backup supplies and industrial control applications. Low quiescent current of 46uA (operating) and 1uA (in shutdown) for battery-powered "keep alive" systems that require optimum run time.



The LT3011 is able to operate with very small, low cost, ceramic output capacitors. It is stable with only a 1uF output capacitor while older linear regulators require between 10uF and 100uF to maintain stability. These tiny external capacitors can be used without the necessary addition of series resistance (ESR) as is common with many other regulators. Internal protection circuitry includes reverse-battery protection, current limiting, thermal limiting, and no reverse current flow from output to input. The LT3011E and LT3011I are available from stock in a proprietary 12-lead thermally enhanced MSOP package and a 10-lead 3mm x 3mm DFN package, both with operating junction temperature of -40°C to +125°C. The LT3011H is available in the MSOP package only and is rated up to +150°C operating junction temperature. Pricing starts at $1.75, $1.93 and $2.26 each for the E, I and H grades, respectively, in 1,000-piece quantities.