High-voltage linear regulators

April 2, 2008

Microchip Technology Inc. has announced the MCP1790 and MCP1791 (MCP179X) high-voltage linear regulators (LDOs), with a continuous 70 milliampere output, the ability to operate at a continuous input voltage of up to 30V and load-dump protection up to 43.5V. Ideal for automotive and industrial applications, they also feature low quiescent current, shutdown current and ceramic capacitor stability, which enable smaller, ultra-efficient designs at lower costs.

The MCP179X LDOs were designed for use in applications requiring continuous operation at high input voltages, such as 12V automotive and 24V industrial applications. The built-in load-dump protection feature shields the system from the voltage transients often found in these types of applications, particularly those in the automotive market. All of this, combined with ceramic output capacitor stability and a low quiescent current of just 70 microamperes, enables more compact, power-efficient and reliable designs.

Example automotive applications for the MCP179X LDOs include those where a device is powered directly from the car’s battery, such as instrumentation lighting, power windows and locks, electronic accessory power adapters and stereo systems. The LDOs are also well suited for high-voltage industrial applications, such as security systems, fire alarms, thermostat controls and sensors, among others.
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