The LM337L is an adjustable 3-terminal negative 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. Furthermore, both line and load regulation are better than standard fixed regulators. Also, the LM337L is packaged in a standard TO-92 transistor package which is easy to use.

In addition to higher performance than fixed regulators, the LM337L 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, only a single 1μF solid tantalum output capacitor is needed unless the device is situated more than 6 inches from the input filter capacitors, in which case an input bypass is needed. A larger 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 LM337L 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 LM337L 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 LM337L is available in a standard TO-92 transistor package, SO-8 surface mount package, and in our new 12 mil diameter bump DSBGA package. The LM337L is rated for operation over a −25°C to +125°C range.

For applications requiring greater output current in excess of 0.5A and 1.5A, see LM137 series data sheets. For the positive complement, see series LM117 and LM317L data sheets.

• Adjustable Output Down to 1.2V
• Ensured 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
• 80 dB Ripple Rejection
• Output is Short Circuit Protected
• Available in the 6-Bump DSBGA Package
• See AN-1112 (Literature Number SNVA009) for DSBGA Considerations