LM120 output capacitor

Brian Aubry

Other Parts Discussed in Thread: LM120

Per its datasheet, the LM120 linear regulator requires an output capacitor; either a 1 uF (minimum) tantalum or a 25 uF (minimum) aluminum electrolytic. Can a ceramic capacitor be used instead? If so, with what restrictions (minimum capacitance, etc.)?

over 10 years ago

0 Michael J Schultis over 10 years ago

TI__Mastermind 24975 points

Hello Brian,

As mentioned in the datasheet, the tantalum or the electrolytic capacitor are required.

It may be possible to use a ceramic capacitor, but I can't recommend that you used another capacitor outside of what the datasheet specifies. It is due to stability that the tantalum or electrolytic capacitor should be used, likely because of ESR restrictions which may cause oscillations.

I don't have data that characterizes what ceramic capacitor can be used if any.

Here is an app note with some background: http://www.ti.com/lit/an/slva115/slva115.pdf

Another app note: http://www.ti.com/lit/an/slva214a/slva214a.pdf

Best,
Michael

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LM120 output capacitor