LM2596

Characteristics

3.3V, 5.0V, 12V, and adjustable output versions

Adjustable version output voltage range:

1.2 to 37V ±4% maximum deviation under line and load conditions

Guaranteed 3.0A output current

Wide input voltage range

Requires only 4 external components

150kHz fixed-frequency internal oscillator

TTL shutdown function, low-power standby mode

High efficiency

Use off-the-shelf standard inductors

Thermal shutdown and current limiting protection

Humidity sensitivity rating 3

Description

The LM2596 series of voltage regulators are monolithic integrated circuits, ideal for easily designing step-down switching regulators (buck converters).

All circuits in this series can drive a 3.0A load and offer excellent line and load regulation performance. These devices are available in fixed output voltage versions of 3.3V, 5.0V, and 12V, as well as adjustable output voltage versions.

These regulators are designed to minimize external components, simplifying power supply design. Several inductor manufacturers offer standard series inductors optimized specifically for the LM2596.

As the LM2596 converter is a switching mode power supply, its efficiency is significantly higher than popular three-terminal linear regulators, especially at higher input voltages.

In many cases, extremely low power dissipation eliminates the need for a heat sink or allows for a significantly smaller one. Multiple manufacturers offer standard series inductors optimized for the LM2596, greatly simplifying switch-mode power supply design.

The LM2596 features include: output voltage accuracy guaranteed within ±4% under specified input voltage and output load conditions; Oscillator frequency tolerance of ±15% (±2% between 0°C and 125°C).

External shutdown functionality is included, with typical standby current of 80μA. Self-protection features comprise two-stage derating and current limiting to safeguard the output switch, along with over-temperature shutdown, ensuring comprehensive protection during faults.