LM317L Datasheet | National Semiconductor

Description The LM317L is an adjustable 3-terminal positive voltage regulator capable of supplying 100m A over a 1.2V to 37V output range. It is exceptionally easy to use and requires only two external resistors to set the output voltage. Further, both line and load regulation are better than standard fixed regulators. Also, the LM317L is available packaged in a standard TO-92 transistor package which is easy to use. In addition to higher performance than fixed regulators, the LM317L offers full overload protection. Included on the chip are current limit, thermal overload protection and safe area protection. All overload protection circuitry remains fully functional even if the adjustment terminal is disconnected. Normally, no capacitors are needed unless the device is situated more than 6 inches from the input filter capacitors in which case an input bypass is needed. An optional output capacitor can be added to improve transient response. The adjustment terminal can be bypassed to achieve very high ripple rejection ratios which are difficult to achieve with standard 3-terminal regulators. Besides replacing fixed regulators, the LM317L is useful in a wide variety of other applications. Since the regulator is “floating” and sees only the input-to-output differential voltage, supplies of several hundred volts can be regulated as long as the maximum input-to-output differential is not exceeded. Also, it makes an especially simple adjustable switching regulator, a programmable output regulator, or by connecting a fixed resistor between the adjustment and output, the LM317L can be used as a precision current regulator. Supplies with electronic shutdown can be achieved by clamping the adjustment terminal to ground which programs the output to 1.2V where most loads draw little current. The LM317L is available in a standard TO-92 transistor package, the SO-8 package, and 6-Bump micro SMD package. The LM317L is rated for operation over a - 25˚C to 125˚C range. Features Adjus...