With a quiescent current of only 2 µA, the MCP1702 250-mA low-dropout regulator from Microchip Technology Inc. requires very little current to maintain regulation, which significantly increases battery run times. The device supports input voltages to 13.2 V, so standard 9-V alkaline batteries can be used to keep costs low. It also features device- and circuit-protection capabilities such as overcurrent protection and thermal shutdown, enabling users to avoid system failures. The MCP1702's highly accurate output-voltage regulation, including ±2% over-temperature accuracy, helps to ensure smooth, reliable system operation. Typical applications include those requiring long battery run times (smoke detectors, life-support devices), those with high input-voltage variations (fire alarms, commercial and residential thermostats), and battery-powered portable devices (personal media players, MP3 players).
The regulator comes in small three-pin SOT-89, SOT-23, and TO-92 packages, all of which provide superior thermal dissipation. Samples are available now, and production orders are being accepted. The regulator costs $0.37 each in 10,000-unit quantities for all package types.
www.microchip.com/MCP1702