Low dropout voltage regulators for 12V applications in SOT-223 packages
Manufacturer: ['national-semiconductor', 'rochester', 'ti']
# LM2937IMP - 12 Product Series Introduction
## 1. Overview
The LM2937IMP - 12 belongs to a highly reliable and efficient series of low - dropout (LDO) voltage regulators. These regulators are designed to provide a stable output voltage in a wide range of electronic applications, ensuring that sensitive components receive a consistent and clean power supply. The "LM2937" is the base part number for the series, while "IMP" typically indicates a specific package type and grade, and "- 12" denotes that the regulator is configured to output a fixed voltage of 12 volts.
## 2. Key Features
### 2.1 Low Dropout Voltage
One of the most significant features of the LM2937IMP - 12 is its low dropout voltage. Dropout voltage is the minimum difference between the input voltage and the output voltage required for the regulator to maintain a stable output. With a low dropout voltage, the LM2937IMP - 12 can operate effectively even when the input voltage is only slightly higher than the 12 - volt output. This is particularly useful in battery - powered applications where the battery voltage gradually decreases over time. For example, if a battery starts at 13.5 volts and discharges to 12.5 volts, the LM2937IMP - 12 can still provide a stable 12 - volt output, maximizing the usable life of the battery.
### 2.2 High Output Voltage Accuracy
The regulator offers high output voltage accuracy, typically within a tight tolerance range. This ensures that the 12 - volt output remains consistent, even under varying load conditions and temperature changes. High accuracy is crucial in applications such as precision analog circuits, where even small voltage variations can lead to significant errors in signal processing or measurement.
### 2.3 Low Quiescent Current
The LM2937IMP - 12 has a low quiescent current, which is the current consumed by the regulator itself when there is no load or a very light load. A low quiescent current helps to reduce power consumption, making the regulator suitable for battery - operated devices where power efficiency is of utmost importance. This feature also contributes to the overall energy efficiency of the system, extending the battery life and reducing heat generation.
### 2.4 Thermal Overload and Short - Circuit Protection
To ensure the reliability and safety of the regulator and the connected components, the LM2937IMP - 12 is equipped with thermal overload and short - circuit protection. In case of excessive heat due to high power dissipation or a short - circuit in the output, the regulator will automatically shut down or limit the current to prevent damage. Once the fault is removed, the regulator can resume normal operation.
## 3. Electrical Specifications
### 3.1 Input Voltage Range
The LM2937IMP - 12 can typically accept an input voltage in the range of 13.5 volts to 26 volts. This wide input voltage range allows it to be used in various power supply systems, including those powered by different types of batteries or AC - DC adapters.
### 3.2 Output Voltage
As mentioned earlier, the regulator provides a fixed output voltage of 12 volts. The output voltage is regulated with high precision, with a typical output voltage tolerance of ±2%.
### 3.3 Output Current
The LM2937IMP - 12 is capable of delivering a maximum output current of up to 100 mA. This makes it suitable for powering a variety of low - power electronic components such as sensors, microcontrollers, and small - scale integrated circuits.
### 3.4 Dropout Voltage
The dropout voltage of the LM293
SOT223-3L
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