Overview
The LM338K STEEL is a high-performance, adjustable 3-terminal positive voltage regulator developed by Texas Instruments. This device is part of the LM338 series and is packaged in a standard steel TO-3 package. It is designed to provide stable and reliable voltage regulation, making it an excellent choice for various power management applications. The LM338K STEEL can supply up to 5 A of current over an output voltage range of 1.2 V to 32 V, making it suitable for use with heavy transient loads and full-load start-up conditions.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Voltage Range | 1.2 V to 32 V |
| Output Current | Up to 5 A |
| Input Voltage Range | 4.2 V to 40 V |
| Load Regulation | 0.5% |
| Line Regulation | 0.03%/V |
| Maximum Power Dissipation | 50,000 mW |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0°C to 125°C |
| Package Type | TO-3 Steel |
| Lead Shape | Through Hole |
| Current Limit | Short Circuit Protection, Thermal Protection |
Key Features
- Adjustable output voltage from 1.2 V to 32 V
- High current capability up to 5 A
- Excellent load and line regulation (0.5% and 0.03%/V respectively)
- Time-dependent current limiting for peak currents up to 12 A
- Thermal overload protection and safe area protection for the power transistor
- No external capacitors required unless the device is far from the input filter capacitors
- Output capacitor can be added to improve transient response
Applications
The LM338K STEEL is versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications, including:
- Programmable DC power supplies
- Heavy transient load conditions
- Full-load start-up conditions
- Replacing fixed regulators or discrete designs
- Regulating supplies of several hundred volts as long as the maximum input to output differential is not exceeded
Q & A
- What is the output voltage range of the LM338K STEEL?
The output voltage range is from 1.2 V to 32 V. - What is the maximum output current of the LM338K STEEL?
The maximum output current is up to 5 A. - What is the input voltage range for the LM338K STEEL?
The input voltage range is from 4.2 V to 40 V. - What kind of protection does the LM338K STEEL have?
The device has short circuit protection, thermal protection, and safe area protection for the power transistor. - Do I need external capacitors for the LM338K STEEL?
No external capacitors are needed unless the device is situated more than 6 inches from the input filter capacitors. - What is the operating temperature range of the LM338K STEEL?
The operating temperature range is from 0°C to 125°C. - What package type is the LM338K STEEL available in?
The device is packaged in a standard steel TO-3 package. - Can the LM338K STEEL handle heavy transient loads?
Yes, it can handle heavy transient loads and speeds start-up under full-load conditions. - How do I set the output voltage of the LM338K STEEL?
The output voltage can be set using only two resistors. - Is the LM338K STEEL suitable for automotive applications?
No, it is not compliant with automotive standards.
