LT3012 is a high voltage, micropower, low dropout linear regulator. The device is capable of supplying 250mA of output current with a dropout voltage of 400mV. Designed for use in battery-powered or high voltage systems, the low quiescent current (operating 40µA, shutdown 1µA) makes the LT3012 an ideal choice. Quiescent current is also well controlled in dropout. Other features of the LT3012 include the ability to operate with very small output capacitors. The regulator is stable with only 3.3µF on the output while most older devices require between 10µF and 100µF for stability. Small ceramic capacitors can be used without any need for series resistance (ESR) as is common with other regulators. Internal protection circuitry includes reverse-battery protection, current limiting, thermal limiting and reverse current protection. The device is available with an adjustable output with a 1.24V reference voltage. The LT3012 regulator is available in the 16-lead TSSOP and 12 pin low profile (0.75mm) (4mm × 3mm) DFN packages with an exposed pad for enhanced thermal handling capability.
The LT3012 linear regulator provides up to 250 mA of output current over a wide input range of 4 V to 80 V. It features a low dropout voltage of 400 mV and an ultra‑low quiescent current of 40 pA (1 pA in shutdown), making it ideal for battery‑powered and high‑voltage applications. The device offers an adjustable output from 1.24 V to 60 V and includes internal protection such as reverse‑battery protection and thermal limiting.
The regulator is available in 12‑lead plastic DFN (4 mm × 3 mm) and 16‑lead plastic TSSOP packages, both with exposed pads for enhanced thermal performance. Detailed electrical characteristics, pin functions, and typical performance curves are provided for design reference.
| Input Voltage Range | 4 V to 80 V |
|---|---|
| Maximum Output Current | 250 mA |
| Dropout Voltage (250 mA) | 400 mV |
| Quiescent Current (operating) | 40 pA |
| Quiescent Current (shutdown) | 1 pA |
| Adjustable Output Range | 1.24 V to 60 V |
| Package (DFN) | 12‑Lead (4 mm × 3 mm) Plastic DFN |
| Package (TSSOP) | 16‑Lead Plastic TSSOP |
The quiescent current drops to 1 pA in shutdown.