TPS736: TPS736: Minimum current load

Camilo Freyle

Part Number: TPS736

I was looking at the datasheet of the TPS736 and specially the typical application section it says that there is a minimum of output current (20 mA for the fixed voltage version, 10 mA for the adjustable). I read about it but I didn´t find a good answer to keep forward in my design, because my sensor needs 1.8V (fixed voltage version could be better) and the typical current load is 10 mA (below that level). I want to know if this is important for the functionality (stability, noise,..) and in that case if I should connect a small resistor to sink or load some current or replace the regulator for other one pin to pin compatible.

Thank you

over 5 years ago

0 Gerard Copeland over 5 years ago

TI__Genius 10200 points

Hi,

The input parameters listed in the Typical Applications section are example design parameters. The TPS736 can operate with as low as 0 mA load current. This is specified in the Recommended Operating Conditions shown below:

Thanks,

Gerard

0 Camilo Freyle over 5 years ago in reply to Gerard Copeland

Prodigy 20 points

Thank you Gerard

A final question about it. If the device can operate with that output current, why did you put on the datasheet that minimum output current in the typical application section? Does it have an impact in some way on the design?

0 Gerard Copeland over 5 years ago in reply to Camilo Freyle

TI__Genius 10200 points

Hi,

The design parameters are listed as an example for a typical application in which the TPS736 is a suitable LDO. In this example application, the minimum load current is specified as 20 mA. For the TPS736 this does not impact the design as this LDO is stable with 0 mA load current. However, it is still an important design parameter to include as the minimum expected load current affects transient response, power dissipation, PSRR, and other performance metrics.

Thanks,
Gerard

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TPS736: TPS736: Minimum current load