MIC5528-3.3YMT-TR: 500mA Low-Dropout Voltage Regulator for Space-Constrained Applications

In the rapidly evolving world of electronics, the relentless drive towards miniaturization places immense pressure on power management design. Engineers are constantly challenged to deliver stable, clean power in increasingly compact footprints without compromising performance. The MIC5528-3.3YMT-TR from Microchip Technology stands out as a premier solution, specifically engineered to meet the demands of these space-constrained applications.

This integrated circuit is a fixed-output, 500mA low-dropout (LDO) voltage regulator preset to a common and highly useful 3.3V output. Its core strength lies in its ability to maintain a stable output voltage even when the input voltage dips very close to the output level. With an impressively low dropout voltage of typically 175mV at 500mA, it ensures efficient operation and maximizes battery life in portable devices, as it continues to regulate effectively even as the input source diminishes.

Beyond its electrical performance, the physical design of the MIC5528 is what makes it indispensable for modern designs. It is housed in a cutting-edge 1mm x 1mm UTDFN package, one of the smallest available in the industry. This incredibly minimal footprint allows it to be placed on the PCB in tight spaces directly next to power-hungry components like system-on-chips (SoCs), FPGAs, and sensors, minimizing trace lengths and improving overall power integrity.

Despite its tiny size, the MIC5528 does not sacrifice functionality or protection. It features integrated current limiting and thermal shutdown, safeguarding both the regulator and the downstream circuitry from fault conditions. Furthermore, it offers excellent line and load regulation, along with low noise output, making it ideal for powering noise-sensitive analog and RF components. Its fast transient response ensures stability even with rapidly changing load currents.

Typical applications span a wide range of portable and miniature products, including:

Smartphones, Tablets, and Wearables

IoT Sensors and Modules

Portable Medical Devices

RF and Wireless Equipment

Point-of-Load (POL) Regulation for FPGAs, ASICs, and processors

ICGOODFIND: The MIC5528-3.3YMT-TR is a powerhouse in a pinhead, perfectly balancing high current delivery, low dropout voltage, and robust protection features within an ultra-miniature package. It is an optimal choice for designers who need reliable, high-performance power regulation without sacrificing valuable board real estate.

Keywords: Low-Dropout (LDO) Regulator, 500mA, Ultra-Miniature Package, Space-Constrained, Thermal Shutdown.