New LDO Technology for Ultra-Miniature IoT Devices

Toshiba Electronics Europe has introduced a new series of low-dropout (LDO) voltage regulators in the ultra-miniature DFN4D package type. These LDO devices are designed for use in miniature applications that are powered by small-scale batteries, offering a solution to reduce power consumption in various devices such as IoT equipment, communications modules, wearable devices, and other miniature equipment.

The TCR3LM series comprises thirty devices covering a voltage range from 0.8V DC to 5.0V DC, with an input voltage (VIN) range of 1.4V DC to 5.5V DC. Each device in the series is capable of delivering up to 300mA of output current (IOUT), making them suitable for a wide range of low-power applications.

One of the key features of these voltage regulators is their compact size, with the DFN4D package measuring just 1.0mm × 1.0mm × 0.37mm. This small form factor allows for space-efficient designs, and the use of small ceramic capacitors on the input and output further reduces the overall solution size.

Moreover, the TCR3LM series offers excellent drop-out performance, with a typical dropout voltage (VDO) of only 137mV. By enabling the output voltage to be achieved with a lower input voltage, these regulators help minimize battery drain, extending the operating life of battery-powered devices.

In addition to the impressive drop-out performance, Toshiba has also focused on enhancing the load transient response of the TCR3LM series. The devices exhibit improved output stability even when the load fluctuates, with a typical transient response of -70mV / +35mV at 2.8V output and varying load conditions from 1mA to 100mA. Furthermore, the quiescent current (IB(ON)) has been minimized to just 1.2μA, contributing to overall power efficiency.