Content for LT3083

The LT3083 is a 3A low dropout linear regulator that can be paralleled to increase output current or spread heat on surface mounted boards. Architected as a precision current source and voltage follower, this new regulator finds use in many applications requiring high current, adjustability to zero, and no heat sink. The device also brings out the collector of the pass transistor to allow low dropout operation—down to 310mV—when used with multiple supplies. A key feature of the LT3083 is the capability to supply a wide output voltage range. By using a reference current through a single resistor, the output voltage is programmed to any level between zero and 23V (DD-PAK and TO-220 packages). The LT3083 is stable with 10μF of capacitance on the output, and the IC is stable with small ceramic capacitors that do not require additional ESR as is common with other regulators. Internal protection circuitry includes current limiting and thermal limiting. The LT3083 is offered in the 16-lead TSSOP (with an exposed pad for better thermal characteristics), 12-lead 4mm × 4mm DFN (also with an exposed pad), 5-lead TO-220, and 5-lead surface mount DD-PAK packages.