LM338 Regulator: Circuit, Price and Pinout

Lifecycle Status refers to the current stage of an electronic component in its product life cycle, indicating whether it is active, obsolete, or transitioning between these states. An active status means the component is in production and available for purchase. An obsolete status indicates that the component is no longer being manufactured or supported, and manufacturers typically provide a limited time frame for support. Understanding the lifecycle status is crucial for design engineers to ensure continuity and reliability in their projects.

Contact plating (finish) provides corrosion protection for base metals and optimizes the mechanical and electrical properties of the contact interfaces.

In electronic components, the term "Mount" typically refers to the method or process of physically attaching or fixing a component onto a circuit board or other electronic device. This can involve soldering, adhesive bonding, or other techniques to secure the component in place. The mounting process is crucial for ensuring proper electrical connections and mechanical stability within the electronic system. Different components may have specific mounting requirements based on their size, shape, and function, and manufacturers provide guidelines for proper mounting procedures to ensure optimal performance and reliability of the electronic device.

The "Mounting Type" in electronic components refers to the method used to attach or connect a component to a circuit board or other substrate, such as through-hole, surface-mount, or panel mount.

refers to the protective housing that encases an electronic component, providing mechanical support, electrical connections, and thermal management.

The operating temperature is the range of ambient temperature within which a power supply, or any other electrical equipment, operate in. This ranges from a minimum operating temperature, to a peak or maximum operating temperature, outside which, the power supply may fail.

Semiconductor package is a carrier / shell used to contain and cover one or more semiconductor components or integrated circuits. The material of the shell can be metal, plastic, glass or ceramic.

The "JESD-609 Code" in electronic components refers to a standardized marking code that indicates the lead-free solder composition and finish of electronic components for compliance with environmental regulations.

The "Pbfree Code" parameter in electronic components refers to the code or marking used to indicate that the component is lead-free. Lead (Pb) is a toxic substance that has been widely used in electronic components for many years, but due to environmental concerns, there has been a shift towards lead-free alternatives. The Pbfree Code helps manufacturers and users easily identify components that do not contain lead, ensuring compliance with regulations and promoting environmentally friendly practices. It is important to pay attention to the Pbfree Code when selecting electronic components to ensure they meet the necessary requirements for lead-free applications.

Parts can have many statuses as they progress through the configuration, analysis, review, and approval stages.

Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) is a standardized rating that indicates the susceptibility of electronic components, particularly semiconductors, to moisture-induced damage during storage and the soldering process, defining the allowable exposure time to ambient conditions before they require special handling or baking to prevent failures

Termination in electronic components refers to the practice of matching the impedance of a circuit to prevent signal reflections and ensure maximum power transfer. It involves the use of resistors or other components at the end of transmission lines or connections. Proper termination is crucial in high-frequency applications to maintain signal integrity and reduce noise.

An ECCN (Export Control Classification Number) is an alphanumeric code used by the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security to identify and categorize electronic components and other dual-use items that may require an export license based on their technical characteristics and potential for military use.

The "Power Rating" of an electronic component refers to the maximum amount of power that the component can handle or dissipate without being damaged. It is typically measured in watts and is an important specification to consider when designing or selecting components for a circuit. Exceeding the power rating of a component can lead to overheating, malfunction, or even permanent damage. It is crucial to ensure that the power rating of each component in a circuit is sufficient to handle the power levels expected during normal operation to maintain the reliability and longevity of the electronic system.

The maximum power that the MOSFET can dissipate continuously under the specified thermal conditions.

In electronic components, the term "Terminal Position" refers to the physical location of the connection points on the component where external electrical connections can be made. These connection points, known as terminals, are typically used to attach wires, leads, or other components to the main body of the electronic component. The terminal position is important for ensuring proper connectivity and functionality of the component within a circuit. It is often specified in technical datasheets or component specifications to help designers and engineers understand how to properly integrate the component into their circuit designs.

The center distance from one pole to the next.

Current rating is the maximum current that a fuse will carry for an indefinite period without too much deterioration of the fuse element.

The "Base Part Number" (BPN) in electronic components serves a similar purpose to the "Base Product Number." It refers to the primary identifier for a component that captures the essential characteristics shared by a group of similar components. The BPN provides a fundamental way to reference a family or series of components without specifying all the variations and specific details.

a count of all of the component leads (or pins)

Output voltage is a crucial parameter in electronic components that refers to the voltage level produced by the component as a result of its operation. It represents the electrical potential difference between the output terminal of the component and a reference point, typically ground. The output voltage is a key factor in determining the performance and functionality of the component, as it dictates the level of voltage that will be delivered to the connected circuit or load. It is often specified in datasheets and technical specifications to ensure compatibility and proper functioning within a given system.

The "Output Type" parameter in electronic components refers to the type of signal or data that is produced by the component as an output. This parameter specifies the nature of the output signal, such as analog or digital, and can also include details about the voltage levels, current levels, frequency, and other characteristics of the output signal. Understanding the output type of a component is crucial for ensuring compatibility with other components in a circuit or system, as well as for determining how the output signal can be utilized or processed further. In summary, the output type parameter provides essential information about the nature of the signal that is generated by the electronic component as its output.

The maximum current that can be supplied to the load.

In general, the absolute maximum common-mode voltage is VEE-0.3V and VCC+0.3V, but for products without a protection element at the VCC side, voltages up to the absolute maximum rated supply voltage (i.e. VEE+36V) can be supplied, regardless of supply voltage.

The minimum supply voltage (V min ) is explored for sequential logic circuits by statistically simulating the impact of within-die process variations and gate-dielectric soft breakdown on data retention and hold time.

Output Configuration in electronic components refers to the arrangement or setup of the output pins or terminals of a device. It defines how the output signals are structured and how they interact with external circuits or devices. The output configuration can determine the functionality and compatibility of the component in a circuit design. Common types of output configurations include single-ended, differential, open-drain, and push-pull configurations, each serving different purposes and applications in electronic systems. Understanding the output configuration of a component is crucial for proper integration and operation within a circuit.

the process by which an electronic or electrical device produces heat (energy loss or waste) as an undesirable derivative of its primary action.

The quiescent current is defined as the current level in the amplifier when it is producing an output of zero.

The maximum output voltage refers to the dynamic area beyond which the output is saturated in the positive or negative direction, and is limited according to the load resistance value.

Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed) refers to the minimum fixed output voltage level that an electronic component, such as a voltage regulator or power supply, is designed to provide under specified load conditions. This parameter ensures that the device consistently delivers a reliable voltage that meets the requirements of the connected circuits or components. It is critical for applications where stable and predictable voltage is necessary for proper operation.

The parameter "Min Input Voltage" in electronic components refers to the minimum voltage level that must be applied to the component for it to operate within its specified parameters. This value is crucial as providing a voltage below this minimum threshold may result in the component malfunctioning or not functioning at all. It is important to adhere to the specified minimum input voltage to ensure the proper operation and longevity of the electronic component. Failure to meet this requirement may lead to potential damage to the component or the overall system in which it is used.

Protection features in electronic components refer to the built-in mechanisms or functionalities designed to safeguard the component and the overall system from various external factors or internal faults. These features are crucial for ensuring the reliability, longevity, and safety of the electronic device. Common protection features include overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, reverse polarity protection, thermal protection, and short-circuit protection. By activating these features when necessary, the electronic component can prevent damage, malfunctions, or hazards that may arise from abnormal operating conditions or unforeseen events. Overall, protection features play a vital role in enhancing the robustness and resilience of electronic components in diverse applications.

PSRR stands for Power Supply Rejection Ratio. It is a measure of how well a device, such as an amplifier or a voltage regulator, can reject variations in the power supply voltage. A high PSRR value indicates that the device is able to maintain its performance even when the power supply voltage fluctuates. This parameter is important in ensuring stable and reliable operation of electronic components, especially in applications where the power supply voltage may not be perfectly regulated. A good PSRR helps to minimize noise and interference in the output signal of the device.

A voltage reference is an electronic device that ideally produces a fixed (constant) voltage irrespective of the loading on the device, power supply variations, temperature changes, and the passage of time. Voltage references are used in power supplies, analog-to-digital converters, digital-to-analog converters, and other measurement and control systems. Voltage references vary widely in performance; a regulator for a computer power supply may only hold its value to within a few percent of the nominal value, whereas laboratory voltage standards have precisions and stability measured in parts per million.

Dropout voltage is the input-to-output differential voltage at which the circuit ceases to regulate against further reductions in input voltage; this point occurs when the input voltage approaches the output voltage.

Dropout Voltage1-Nom is a parameter commonly found in voltage regulators and power management ICs. It refers to the minimum voltage difference required between the input voltage and the output voltage for the regulator to maintain regulation. In other words, it is the minimum voltage drop that the regulator can handle while still providing a stable output voltage. This parameter is important to consider when designing power supply circuits to ensure that the regulator can operate within its specified voltage range and maintain proper regulation under varying load conditions.

Min Output Voltage refers to the lowest voltage level that an electronic component, such as a voltage regulator or power supply, can provide reliably under specified conditions. It indicates the minimum threshold required for proper operation of connected devices. Operating below this voltage may lead to device malfunction or failure to operate as intended.

Power Supply Rejection Ratio (PSRR) is a measure of how well an electronic component, such as an operational amplifier or voltage regulator, can reject changes in its supply voltage. It indicates the ability of the component to maintain a stable output voltage despite fluctuations in the input supply voltage. A higher PSRR value signifies better performance in rejecting noise and variations from the power supply, leading to improved signal integrity and more reliable operation in electronic circuits. PSRR is typically expressed in decibels (dB).

Load Regulation-Max(%) is a measure of how much the output voltage of a power supply or voltage regulator changes in response to variations in load current. It is expressed as a percentage of the nominal output voltage and indicates the maximum deviation from the set voltage when the load shifts from no load to full load. A lower value of load regulation signifies better performance, as it indicates that the output voltage remains stable under varying load conditions.

Line regulation refers to the ability of an electronic component, such as a voltage regulator, to maintain a stable output voltage despite variations in the input voltage. The parameter "Line Regulation-Max (%/V)" specifies the maximum percentage change in the output voltage for a given change in the input voltage. For example, if the Line Regulation-Max is 0.1%/V, it means that the output voltage will change by a maximum of 0.1% for every 1V change in the input voltage. A lower value for Line Regulation-Max indicates better performance and stability of the component in maintaining a consistent output voltage under varying input conditions. It is an important parameter to consider when designing or selecting electronic components for applications where voltage stability is critical.

Thickness in electronic components refers to the measurement of how thick a particular material or layer is within the component structure. It can pertain to various aspects, such as the thickness of a substrate, a dielectric layer, or conductive traces. This parameter is crucial as it impacts the electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties of the component, influencing its performance and reliability in electronic circuits.

The parameter "REACH SVHC" in electronic components refers to the compliance with the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) regulation regarding Substances of Very High Concern (SVHC). SVHCs are substances that may have serious effects on human health or the environment, and their use is regulated under REACH to ensure their safe handling and minimize their impact.Manufacturers of electronic components need to declare if their products contain any SVHCs above a certain threshold concentration and provide information on the safe use of these substances. This information allows customers to make informed decisions about the potential risks associated with using the components and take appropriate measures to mitigate any hazards.Ensuring compliance with REACH SVHC requirements is essential for electronics manufacturers to meet regulatory standards, protect human health and the environment, and maintain transparency in their supply chain. It also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices in the electronics industry.

Radiation hardening is the process of making electronic components and circuits resistant to damage or malfunction caused by high levels of ionizing radiation, especially for environments in outer space (especially beyond the low Earth orbit), around nuclear reactors and particle accelerators, or during nuclear accidents or nuclear warfare.

RoHS means “Restriction of Certain Hazardous Substances” in the “Hazardous Substances Directive” in electrical and electronic equipment.

Lead Free is a term used to describe electronic components that do not contain lead as part of their composition. Lead is a toxic material that can have harmful effects on human health and the environment, so the electronics industry has been moving towards lead-free components to reduce these risks. Lead-free components are typically made using alternative materials such as silver, copper, and tin. Manufacturers must comply with regulations such as the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive to ensure that their products are lead-free and environmentally friendly.