L7986A

Voltage Regulators - DC DC Switching Regulators Overview

The L7986A is a step-down switching regulator IC from STMicroelectronics, featuring an embedded power MOSFET with a minimum current limit of 3.7 A to deliver up to 3 A output current. It operates with an input voltage range of 4.5 V to 38 V and provides an adjustable output voltage from 0.6 V to the input voltage level. The device integrates an internal oscillator with a nominal switching frequency of 250 kHz, which can be externally programmed up to 1 MHz. It supports low dropout operation at 100% duty cycle and includes internal soft-start and enable functions. The component is housed in an 8-HSOP package with an exposed pad.

Voltage Regulators - DC DC Switching Regulators Feature Summary

• Integrates a 3.7 A current-limited embedded power MOSFET for high-efficiency step-down conversion
• Features an internally fixed 250 kHz oscillator with external programmability up to 1 MHz
• Supports low dropout operation via 100% duty cycle capability for minimal voltage drop
• Includes built-in overcurrent protection and thermal shutdown for system reliability

Voltage Regulators - DC DC Switching Regulators Applications

• Step-down DC-DC power supply designs requiring adjustable output voltages
• Evaluation using STEVAL-ISA100V1 demonstration board for L7986A performance verification
• Automotive and industrial applications utilizing monolithic buck converter portfolios

Voltage Regulators - DC DC Switching Regulators Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix to confirm the package type, as the L7986 family includes variants such as VFDFPN-EP-10L and HSOP8. Confirm RoHS compliance status and moisture sensitivity level (MSL 3) requirements for your assembly process. Ensure the selected variant matches the required thermal performance specifications for your PCB layout design.

Voltage Regulators - DC DC Switching Regulators Selection Notes

Select the L7986A when a robust 3 A buck converter is needed with a wide input voltage range up to 38 V. The HSOP8 package with exposed pad offers superior thermal dissipation compared to standard packages. Consider the external frequency programming feature if synchronization with other system clocks is required. Evaluate the thermal resistance characteristics based on the specific PCB copper area available for heat spreading.

Voltage Regulators - DC DC Switching Regulators Part Context

The L7986A belongs to the L7986 series of 3 A step-down switching regulators manufactured by STMicroelectronics. This series is designed for automotive and industrial applications, offering high reliability through monolithic integration. The device complements ST's portfolio of buck converters by providing flexible output voltage adjustment and efficient power management capabilities within a compact surface-mount footprint.

Voltage Regulators - DC DC Switching Regulators Replacement Considerations

The STEVAL-ISA099V1 is listed as an associated evaluation board for the L7986 series. No direct pin-to-pin replacement part numbers are explicitly confirmed in the provided documentation.