LM3480 Voltage Regulators Datasheet, Features, Pinout, and Applications
Update Time: Apr 25, 2025 Readership: 515
Contents
The LM3480 is a low dropout (LDO) linear voltage regulator designed to deliver stable output voltages in a compact form. Manufactured by Texas Instruments, the LM3480 provides precise voltage regulation with low quiescent current and is ideally suited for portable electronics, embedded systems, and industrial automation requiring a compact footprint and efficient power regulation.
Overview of LM3480
The LM3480 is a compact, integrated linear voltage regulator designed to operate with input voltages up to 30 V. It offers a guaranteed maximum dropout voltage of just 1.2 V at a full 100 mA load. Packaged in a space-saving 3-lead SOT-23, the LM3480 provides a practical solution for space-constrained designs.
Available in fixed output voltages of 5 V, 12 V, and 15 V, the LM3480 series serves as a compact alternative to traditional LM78Lxx regulators. Thanks to its lower dropout voltage—typically around 1.2 V—it is well suited for applications where the higher dropout (2 V to 2.5 V) of LM78Lxx series regulators would be limiting.
A 3.3 V version is also included in the LM3480 lineup. Its small SOT-23 package and low-dropout performance make it an ideal choice for generating a precise 3.3 V, 100 mA bias supply directly from a standard 5 V ±5% system rail.
LM3480 Features
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Wide Input Voltage Range: Operates with inputs up to 30 V
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Fixed Output Options: Available in 3.3 V, 5 V, 12 V, and 15 V variants
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Ultra-Compact Package: Offered in a small 3-lead SOT-23 form factor
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High Maximum Input Voltage: Supports up to 30 V input for flexible system design
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Low Dropout Performance: Guaranteed maximum dropout of 1.2 V across full load and temperature conditions
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Reliable Output Current: Ensures a minimum load current of 100 mA
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Tight Output Tolerance: ±5% output voltage accuracy maintained across load and temperature variations
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Broad Operating Temperature Range: Functional from –40°C to +125°C junction temperature
LM3480 Pinout
Pin Configuration
| PIN | I/O | DESCRIPTION | |
| NAME | NO. | ||
| OUT | 1 | O | Output voltage |
| IN | 2 | I | Input voltage supply |
| GND | 3 | — | Common ground |
Absolute Maximum Ratings
| MIN | MAX | UNIT | |
| Input voltage (IN to GND) | –0.3 | 35 | V |
| Power dissipation | Internally Limited | ||
| Junction temperature | –40 | 150 | °C |
| Storage temperature, Tstg | −65 | 150 | °C |
Functional Block Diagram
Typical Application Circuit
LM3480 Applications
Tiny Alternative to LM78Lxx Series and Similar Devices:
The LM3480 serves as a compact and efficient alternative to traditional linear regulators such as the LM78Lxx series. Designed with space-constrained applications in mind, it offers the same essential voltage regulation functionality in a significantly smaller footprint. Its low dropout voltage, stable output, and low quiescent current make it a suitable choice for modern designs requiring dependable performance without occupying the board space typically needed by older regulator models. Ideal for portable or densely packed electronic systems, the LM3480 simplifies power supply design where size and efficiency are equally critical.
Tiny 5-V ±5% to 3.3-V, 100-mA Converter:
The LM3480 is particularly well-suited for stepping down a regulated 5V input (with up to ±5% tolerance) to a 3.3V output at currents up to 100 mA. This makes it ideal for low-current digital systems, microcontrollers, and logic circuits that operate at 3.3V. The device offers a clean and stable output suitable for sensitive electronics while maintaining low power dissipation and minimal external component count. Its simplicity and compact size make it an excellent solution for point-of-load voltage regulation in embedded systems and consumer electronics.
Post Regulator for Switching DC/DC Converter:
In power supply architectures where a switching DC/DC converter is used for efficient voltage step-down, the LM3480 can function as a post regulator to smooth out any residual ripple or noise. This approach combines the high efficiency of switch-mode regulation with the low-noise benefits of a linear regulator. By placing the LM3480 downstream of a DC/DC converter, designers can achieve cleaner output voltage levels—essential for powering sensitive analog or digital circuitry in mixed-signal systems, instrumentation, or RF modules.
Bias Supply for Analog Circuits:
Analog circuitry, particularly in signal processing and precision measurement systems, demands clean and stable bias voltages for optimal performance. The LM3480 is well-suited to supply such bias voltages due to its low output noise and stable regulation. Whether used in op-amp circuits, data converters, or sensor interfaces, the LM3480 helps maintain signal fidelity and minimize distortion. Its compact design, combined with efficient performance, makes it a reliable choice for analog biasing in applications where precision and board space are at a premium.
LM3480 Package
The LM3480 is housed in a SOT-23 package, offering a minimal footprint for compact PCBs. This package is ideal for space-sensitive applications while ensuring thermal efficiency and ease of surface-mount assembly.
LM3480 Manufacturer
The LM3480 is manufactured by Texas Instruments, a global leader in analog and embedded semiconductor solutions. TI is widely recognized for its robust power management ICs, offering high performance, efficiency, and reliability. Their voltage regulator portfolio supports a broad spectrum of industries, including automotive, industrial, consumer electronics, and medical.
With an emphasis on precision, energy efficiency, and ruggedness, Texas Instruments designs components like the LM3480 to meet the power demands of modern electronics. Backed by comprehensive technical documentation and global support, TI's products are trusted by engineers for mission-critical systems.
LM3480 Datasheet
The LM3480 Datasheet provides full technical details including pin configuration, operating conditions, thermal limits, and application examples. It is essential for system designers to ensure optimal layout, stability, and protection in voltage regulation circuits.
LM3480 vs. Other LDO Regulators
Conclusion
The LM3480 Voltage Regulator is a compact, efficient, and reliable LDO solution for low-power and space-constrained designs. With low dropout voltage, fixed voltage outputs, and integrated protection features, it is well-suited for applications in consumer electronics, embedded systems, and portable devices. Backed by Texas Instruments’ expertise, the LM3480 ensures long-term performance and ease of integration.
Extended Reading
FAQ
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What is the maximum output current of the LM3480?
It can supply up to 100 mA of output current.
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What is the typical dropout voltage of the LM3480?
The dropout voltage is typically 300 mV at 100 mA load.
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What package does the LM3480 come in?
It is available in a compact SOT-23 (3-pin) surface-mount package.
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Is the LM3480 suitable for battery-powered applications?
Yes, its low quiescent current (90 μA) makes it ideal for energy-efficient designs.
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What kind of protection features are integrated into the LM3480?
It includes thermal shutdown and current limiting protection.
LM3480IM3X-3.3/NOPB In Stock: 4,628 Pcs
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