The TPS72xx family of low-dropout (LDO) voltage regulators offers the benefits of low-dropout voltage, micropower operation, and miniaturized packaging. These regulators feature extremely low dropout voltages and quiescent currents compared to conventional LDO regulators. Offered in small-outline integrated-circuit (SOIC) packages and 8-terminal thin shrink small-outline (TSSOP), the TPS72xx series devices are ideal for cost-sensitive designs and for designs where board space is at a premium.

A combination of new circuit design and process innovation has enabled the usual pnp pass transistor to be replaced by a PMOS device. Because the PMOS pass element behaves as a low-value resistor, the dropout voltage is very low - maximum of 85 mV at 100 mA of load current (TPS7250) - and is directly proportional to the load current (see Figure 1).