The LM320LZ-12/NOPB is a 3-Terminal Negative Voltage Regulator manufactured by Texas Instruments (formerly National Semiconductor). It's designed to provide a fixed negative output voltage of -12V with a specified output current capability. The '/NOPB' suffix indicates that the device is lead-free and RoHS compliant. This regulator is commonly used in a variety of electronic circuits where a stable and regulated negative voltage is required.

Applications

• Linear Regulators for Instrumentation: Providing -12V supply for analog circuits, op-amps, and other components in test and measurement equipment.
• Industrial Control Systems: Supplying negative voltage rails for sensors, actuators, and control circuits.
• Power Supplies: Negative voltage regulation in power supplies for various electronic devices.
• Data Acquisition Systems: Powering analog signal conditioning circuits that require negative voltage references.
• Audio Amplifiers: Providing the necessary negative voltage rail for operational amplifiers in audio preamplifiers and power amplifiers.

Features

• Fixed Output Voltage: Provides a stable -12V output voltage.
• Output Current Capability: Designed to deliver a specified output current (typically up to 1.5A with adequate heat sinking).
• Internal Thermal Overload Protection: Protects the regulator from damage due to excessive heat.
• Short Circuit Protection: Prevents damage to the regulator in the event of a short circuit at the output.
• Safe-Area Compensation: Reduces the risk of output transistor failure.

Benefits

• Stable Negative Voltage: Provides a reliable and regulated -12V output, essential for many analog circuits.
• Simplified Design: Requires minimal external components, simplifying circuit design and reducing board space.
• Overload Protection: Thermal overload and short circuit protection enhance reliability and prevent damage.
• Cost-Effective: Provides a cost-effective solution for negative voltage regulation.
• RoHS Compliant: Environmentally friendly due to lead-free construction.

Additional Details

The LM320LZ-12/NOPB is typically available in a TO-92 package. Proper heat sinking is often required to ensure that the regulator operates within its specified temperature range, especially at higher output currents. The input voltage should be higher than the output voltage by a certain minimum amount (dropout voltage) for proper regulation. Refer to the datasheet for specific input voltage range, output current capabilities, thermal resistance, and recommended external components. Bypass capacitors are generally recommended at the input and output to improve stability and transient response.