L7812CV

Overview

The L7812CV is a fixed positive linear voltage regulator from the STMicroelectronics L78xx series, housed in a TO-220-3 through-hole package. It provides a fixed output voltage of 12 V with a maximum continuous output current of 1.5 A. The device supports an input voltage range up to 35 V and operates within a temperature range of 0 °C to +125 °C. Internal protections include thermal shutdown and safe area protection.

Feature Summary

• Fixed 12 V output voltage
• Maximum 1.5 A output current capability
• Integrated thermal overload and short-circuit protection

Applications

• General-purpose power supply regulation
• Embedded system biasing
• Industrial control circuitry

Procurement Notes

Verify component authenticity by checking manufacturer markings against official datasheets. Confirm package type matches TO-220-3 specifications. Ensure compliance with RoHS directives if required for your application. Cross-reference part numbers carefully as suffixes may indicate variations in packaging or testing standards.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a stable 12 V rail is needed at currents up to 1.5 A. Consider thermal management requirements due to linear regulation losses. Verify input voltage stays within the 35 V maximum limit. Evaluate heat dissipation needs based on the difference between input and output voltages.

Part Context

Part of the widely adopted L78xx family of three-terminal linear regulators. Designed for simplicity and reliability in basic voltage regulation tasks. Commonly used in legacy designs and cost-sensitive applications where high efficiency is not the primary constraint.

Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements include UA7812CKCSE3 (Texas Instruments) and MC78M12ACTG (onsemi). Verify pinout compatibility and thermal performance characteristics before substitution.