The REG102 is a family of low-noise, low-dropout linear regulators with low ground pin current. Its new DMOS topology provides significant improvement over previous designs, including low-dropout voltage (only 150mV typ at full load), and better transient performance. In addition, no output capacitor is required for stability, unlike conventional low-dropout regulators that are difficult to compensate and require expensive low ESR capacitors greater than 1µF.

Typical ground pin current is only 600µA (at I_OUT = 250mA) and drops to 10nA when not enabled. Unlike regulators with PNP pass devices, quiescent current remains relatively constant over load variations and under dropout conditions.

The REG102 has very low output noise (typically 28µVrms for V_OUT = 3.3V with C_NR = 0.01µF), making it ideal for use in portable communications equipment. On-chip trimming results in high output voltage accuracy. Accuracy is maintained over temperature, line, and load variations. Key parameters are tested over the specified temperature range (–40°C to +85°C).

The REG102 is well protected—internal circuitry provides a current limit that protects the load from damage; furthermore, thermal protection circuitry keeps the chip from being damaged by excessive temperature. The REG102 is available in the SOT23-5, SOT223-5, and SO-8 packages.