LP38841T-0.8 Linear Voltage Regulator Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The LP38841T-0.8 is a linear voltage regulator IC from Texas Instruments designed for positive fixed output applications. This device delivers 800mA output current at a fixed 0.8V output voltage in a TO-220-5 package. The main part number is currently listed as obsolete, making equivalent substitute parts necessary for ongoing production and maintenance applications. The availability of active product variants ensures continued access to this voltage regulation topology.

Substiute Parts

LP38841T-0.8

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 1012LP38841T-0.8 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

LP38841T-0.8/NOPB

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 1431LP38841T-0.8/NOPB Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the LP38841T-0.8 is determined by the following critical parameters that must remain constant across equivalent parts:

• Output voltage specification: 0.8V fixed
• Maximum output current capability: 800mA
• Maximum input voltage: 5.5V
• Package type: TO-220-5 (mechanical and thermal compatibility)
• Dropout voltage: 0.21V @ 800mA
• Protection features: Over Current, Over Temperature, Short Circuit
• Control features: Enable function
• Operating temperature range: -40°C ~ 125°C

The LP38841T-0.8/NOPB variant meets all these electrical and mechanical requirements, differing only in product status (active vs. obsolete) and packaging format (tube vs. standard).

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The LP38841T-0.8/NOPB is the direct functional equivalent of the LP38841T-0.8. Selection between these parts is determined by regulatory and compliance requirements:

• For new designs and applications requiring RoHS3 compliance, the LP38841T-0.8/NOPB is the appropriate choice, as it carries active product status and meets current environmental standards.
• The LP38841T-0.8 remains suitable for legacy system maintenance where RoHS compliance is not mandated and existing inventory is available.
• Both parts are electrically and mechanically identical in all critical parameters, ensuring direct substitution in circuit applications.
• The /NOPB designation indicates lead-free plating, which is standard for modern manufacturing processes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can LP38841T-0.8/NOPB directly replace LP38841T-0.8 in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both parts are electrically and mechanically identical across all specified parameters. The /NOPB variant uses lead-free plating and carries active product status, making it the preferred choice for new applications.

Q: What does the /NOPB suffix indicate?

A: The /NOPB designation specifies lead-free plating on the component leads, compliant with RoHS3 standards. This is a manufacturing and compliance specification, not a functional difference.

Q: Are there any thermal or electrical performance differences between these parts?

A: No. Both variants deliver identical electrical performance: 800mA output current, 0.8V fixed output, 0.21V maximum dropout voltage, and identical protection and control features across the full operating temperature range of -40°C to 125°C.

Q: What is the significance of the product status difference (Obsolete vs. Active)?

A: The LP38841T-0.8 is obsolete and no longer manufactured. The LP38841T-0.8/NOPB is actively produced by Texas Instruments. For new designs and long-term availability, the active variant is recommended.

Q: Are both parts available in the same TO-220-5 package?

A: Yes. Both parts use the TO-220-5 through-hole package, ensuring identical mechanical fit and thermal characteristics on PCBs.

Q: What protection features are included in both variants?

A: Both parts include over-current protection, over-temperature protection, and short-circuit protection, providing comprehensive safeguarding for the output stage.