The UC2832 and UC3833 series of precision linear regulators include all the control functions required in the design of very low dropout linear regulators. Additionally, they feature an innovative duty-ratio current limiting technique which provides peak load capability while limiting the average power dissipation of the external pass transistor during fault conditions. When the load current reaches an accurately programmed threshold, a gated-astable timer is enabled, which switches the regulator’s pass device off and on at an externally programmable duty-ratio. During the on-time of the pass element, the output current is limited to a value slightly higher than the trip threshold of the duty-ratio timer. The constant-current-limit is programmable on the UCx832 to allow higher peak current during the on-time of the pass device. With duty-ratio control, high initial load demands and short circuit protection may both be accommodated without extra heat sinking or foldback current limiting. Additionally, if the timer pin is grounded, the duty-ratio timer is disabled, and the IC operates in constant-voltage/constant-current regulating mode.

These IC’'s include a 2 Volt (±1%) reference, error amplifier, UVLO, and a high current driver that has both source and sink outputs, allowing the use of either NPN or PNP external pass transistors. Safe operation is assured by the inclusion of under-voltage lockout (UVLO) and thermal shutdown.

The UC3833 family includes the basic functions of this design in a low-cost, 8-pin mini-dip package, while the UC2832 series provides added versatility with the availability of 14 pins. Packaging options include plastic (N suffix), or ceramic (J suffix). Specified operating temperature ranges are: commercial (0°C to 70°C), order UC3832/3 (N or J); and industrial (–40°C to 85°C), order UC2832/3 (N or J). Surface mount packaging is also available.