LM2596 is a 3.0A step-down switching regulator with adjustable output voltage. It is available in fixed output voltages of 3.3V, 5.0V,12V, 15V and an adjustable output version. The chip features a wide input voltage range, 150kHz fixed frequency internal oscillator, TTL shutdown capability, low power standby mode, high efficiency, uses readily available standard inductors, thermal shutdown and current limit protection.
The LM2596 series is a monolithic step‑down (buck) switching regulator available in TO‑220, TO‑220V, TO‑263 (D2) and other packages. It provides up to 3.0 A output current, a wide input voltage range, and requires only four external components.
The document includes electrical characteristics, absolute maximum ratings, typical application circuits, layout guidelines, pin descriptions, and mechanical dimensions for each package.
| Maximum Supply Voltage (Vin) | 45 V |
|---|---|
| Output Current (continuous) | 3.0 A |
| Typical Efficiency (12 V in, 3 A out) | 73 % (3.3 V version) |
| Typical Efficiency (15 V in, 3 A out) | 90 % (12 V version) |
| Typical Efficiency (18 V in, 3 A out) | 98 % (15 V version) |
| Standby Current (ON/OFF pin high) | ≈80 µA |
| Thermal Resistance, Junction‑to‑Ambient (TO‑220) | 65 °C/W |
The LM2596 can deliver a continuous output current of up to 3.0 A.
When shut down, the regulator draws about 80 µA of standby current.
The device’s absolute maximum supply voltage is 45 V.
Only four external components are needed for a basic design.