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Operating the LM2941 outside of the specified voltage range.

Other Parts Discussed in Thread: LM2941

What are the possible ramifications of using the LM2941 outside of its specified voltage range. The input voltage range is specified as 6 to 26V and the output voltage range is specified a 5 to 20V. I have recentlyy found that I have several designs that are using the LM2941 to regulate from 5V to 3.3V.

  • The LM2941 is the adjustable version of LM2940. It is not designed for operation with an output voltage less than 5V.

    For sure the LM2941 will behave as if it is operating in, or very near to, the dropout region: Vout may be lower than expected, Gnd pin current may be higher than expected, Load Regulation will be very poor, PSRR will be degraded.

    That said, while your application may, or may not, be sensitive to these items, this is certainly outside the recommended and ensured operating range.