Where & How to use LM337? [FAQ]

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.

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

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.

Terminal Finish refers to the surface treatment applied to the terminals or leads of electronic components to enhance their performance and longevity. It can improve solderability, corrosion resistance, and overall reliability of the connection in electronic assemblies. Common finishes include nickel, gold, and tin, each possessing distinct properties suitable for various applications. The choice of terminal finish can significantly impact the durability and effectiveness of electronic devices.

The packing method in electronic components refers to the technique used to package and protect the component during shipping and handling. It encompasses various forms including tape and reel, tray, tube, or bulk packaging, each suited for different types of components and manufacturing processes. The choice of packing method can affect the ease of handling, storage, and the efficiency of assembly in automated processes. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in ensuring the reliability and integrity of the components until they are used in electronic devices.

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.

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)

JESD-30 Code refers to a standardized descriptive designation system established by JEDEC for semiconductor-device packages. This system provides a systematic method for generating designators that convey essential information about the package's physical characteristics, such as size and shape, which aids in component identification and selection. By using JESD-30 codes, manufacturers and engineers can ensure consistency and clarity in the specification of semiconductor packages across various applications and industries.

The parameter "Current - Supply (Max)" in electronic components refers to the maximum amount of current that a component can draw from a power supply for its operation. This parameter is critical for ensuring that the power supply can adequately meet the demands of the component without causing damage or malfunction. Exceeding this specified maximum current can lead to overheating, reduced performance, or failure of the component. It is essential to consider this value when designing or integrating components into electronic circuits to maintain reliability and functionality.

Voltage - Input (Max) is a parameter in electronic components that specifies the maximum voltage that can be safely applied to the input of the component without causing damage. This parameter is crucial for ensuring the proper functioning and longevity of the component. Exceeding the maximum input voltage can lead to electrical overstress, which may result in permanent damage or failure of the component. It is important to carefully adhere to the specified maximum input voltage to prevent any potential issues and maintain the reliability of the electronic system.

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.

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.

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.

A regulator is a mechanism or device that controls something such as pressure, temperature, or fluid flow. The voltage regulator keeps the power level stabilized. A regulator is a mechanism or device that controls something such as pressure, temperature, or fluid flow.

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.

The parameter "Current - Quiescent (Iq)" in electronic components refers to the amount of current consumed by a device when it is in a quiescent or idle state, meaning when it is not actively performing any tasks or operations. This parameter is important because it represents the baseline power consumption of the device even when it is not actively being used. A lower quiescent current (Iq) value is desirable as it indicates that the device is more energy-efficient and will consume less power when not in use, which can help extend battery life in portable devices and reduce overall power consumption in electronic systems. Designers often pay close attention to the quiescent current specification when selecting components for low-power applications or battery-operated devices.

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 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.

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.