Key Specs

SpecValueConditionSource
Control Features-Digi-Key
Current Quiescent IQ4 µADigi-Key
Input Voltage (Max)6VDigi-Key
Mounting TypeSurface MountDigi-Key
Number Of Regulators1Digi-Key
Operating Temperature Range-40°C ~ 125°CDigi-Key
Output ConfigurationPositiveDigi-Key
Output Current (Max)250mADigi-Key
Output TypeFixedDigi-Key
Output Voltage (Max)-Digi-Key
Output Voltage (Min)3.5VDigi-Key
Package CaseTO-236-3, SC-59, SOT-23-3Digi-Key
Protection FeaturesOver Current, Over Temperature, Short CircuitDigi-Key
Psrr44dB (100Hz)Digi-Key
Supplier Device PackageSOT-23-3Digi-Key
Voltage Dropout (Max)0.35V @ 250mADigi-Key

When To Use

Use the MCP1700T-3502E/TT in low-power, battery-operated applications requiring a fixed 3.5V output voltage and a maximum output current of 250mA. Its ultra-low quiescent current of 4 µA makes it ideal for portable devices and energy-sensitive systems. Avoid using this device in applications where the input voltage exceeds 6V or where adjustable output voltage is required; in such cases, consider a regulator with higher input voltage tolerance or adjustable output options.


When Not To Use

  1. Output current > 250mA: The 250mA max output current rating disqualifies this part for higher load demands. Use a high-current synchronous buck with external FETs instead to avoid thermal runaway and premature device failure.

  2. Input-output voltage differential under 0.35V: The dropout voltage of 0.35V at full load is too high for low-voltage headroom scenarios. Use an LDO regulator optimized for ultra-low dropout to prevent output voltage sag and loss of regulation.

  3. Battery-powered system requiring ultra-low quiescent current in sleep mode: The 4µA quiescent current is moderate but too high for μA-level sleep mode budgets. Use a low-IQ PFM buck to extend battery life by reducing bias current in standby states.


Application Notes

The input node is the switching node where the internal pass transistor modulates current; minimizing loop area here reduces electromagnetic interference. The output pin is noise-sensitive and should be routed away from noisy signals to maintain output voltage stability. At the maximum output current of 250mA with a dropout voltage of 0.35V, the device typically does not require a heatsink due to its low power dissipation, but thermal considerations should be evaluated based on ambient temperature and PCB layout.

Gotchas

  1. Engineer omits verifying input voltage limits and applies more than 6V at the input. Result: The device may suffer permanent damage or malfunction due to exceeding the maximum input voltage. Fix: Always ensure the input voltage does not exceed 6V.

  2. Engineer assumes external capacitors are needed and adds large output capacitors with high ESR. Result: Excessive ESR can cause instability or oscillation. Fix: Use the device without external capacitors or follow Microchip’s recommended minimal output capacitance guidelines if needed.