The LM317L-N is an adjustable 3-terminal positive voltage regulator capable of supplying 100mA over a 1.2V to 37V output range. It is exceptionally easy to use and requires only two external resistors to set the output voltage. Further, both line and load regulation are better than standard fixed regulators. Also, the LM317L-N is available packaged in a standard TO-92 transistor package which is easy to use.

In addition to higher performance than fixed regulators, the LM317L-N offers full overload protection. Included on the chip are current limit, thermal overload protection and safe area protection. All overload protection circuitry remains fully functional even if the adjustment terminal is disconnected.

Normally, no capacitors are needed unless the device is situated more than 6 inches from the input filter capacitors in which case an input bypass is needed. An optional output capacitor can be added to improve transient response. The adjustment terminal can be bypassed to achieve very high ripple rejection ratios which are difficult to achieve with standard 3-terminal regulators.

Besides replacing fixed regulators, the LM317L-N is useful in a wide variety of other applications. Since the regulator is “floating” and sees only the input-to-output differential voltage, supplies of several hundred volts can be regulated as long as the maximum input-to-output differential is not exceeded.

Also, it makes an especially simple adjustable switching regulator, a programmable output regulator, or by connecting a fixed resistor between the adjustment and output, the LM317L-N can be used as a precision current regulator. Supplies with electronic shutdown can be achieved by clamping the adjustment terminal to ground which programs the output to 1.2V where most loads draw little current.

The LM317L-N is available in a standard TO-92 transistor package, the SOIC-8 package, and 6-DSBGA package. The LM317L-N is rated for operation over a −40°C to 125°C range.

• Adjustable Output Down to 1.2V
• 100mA Output Current
• Line Regulation Typically 0.01%V
• Load Regulation Typically 0.1%
• Current Limit Constant with Temperature
• Eliminates the Need to Stock Many Voltages
• Standard 3-lead Transistor Package
• 80dB Ripple Rejection
• Available in TO-92, SOIC-8, or 6-DSBGA Package
• Output is Short Circuit Protected
• See AN-1112 (SNVA009) for DSBGA Considerations

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