MCP1812AT-033/OT: A 150mA Low-Quiescent Current LDO Voltage Regulator from Microchip

In the world of portable and battery-powered electronics, power management is paramount. Efficient voltage regulation is a critical component, directly impacting both device performance and battery life. Addressing this need, Microchip Technology's MCP1812AT-033/OT stands out as a highly efficient 150mA Low-Dropout (LDO) voltage regulator engineered for ultra-low power consumption.

The defining characteristic of the MCP1812 is its remarkably low quiescent current (Iq) of just 300 nA (typical). Quiescent current is the current the regulator consumes internally when it is powered but not supplying significant load current to the system. This minuscule power draw makes it an ideal solution for applications that spend a significant amount of time in standby or sleep modes, where preserving every microamp of battery charge is crucial. By minimizing this internal waste, the MCP1812 dramatically extends battery life in devices such as wireless sensors, IoT nodes, wearables, and medical implants.

Despite its ultra-low Iq, this LDO does not compromise on performance. It is capable of delivering a stable output current of up to 150mA, sufficient to power microcontrollers, sensors, and other core circuitry in compact designs. The specific part number, MCP1812AT-033/OT, indicates a fixed 3.3V output voltage, a common requirement for many modern digital components. The device features a low dropout voltage, enabling it to continue regulating its output even as the input voltage supply decays to a level very close to the output voltage, a common occurrence in discharging batteries.

Housed in a space-saving SOT-23-5 package, the MCP1812 is designed for compact PCB layouts. It also incorporates key protection features like current limit and thermal shutdown, safeguarding both the regulator and the downstream circuitry under fault conditions. Its stability is maintained with a small, low-value ceramic output capacitor (≥1μF), simplifying the bill of materials and reducing overall design footprint.

ICGOOODFIND: The Microchip MCP1812AT-033/OT is a superior choice for designers of power-sensitive applications. Its exceptional combination of ultra-low 300 nA quiescent current, 150mA output capability, and robust integration in a tiny package makes it a cornerstone component for maximizing runtime in battery-operated devices.

Keywords:

Low Quiescent Current

LDO Voltage Regulator

Battery Life Extension

150mA Output Current

Microchip Technology