LP3961ESX-5.0 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The LP3961ESX-5.0 is a linear voltage regulator IC from Texas Instruments designed to deliver a fixed 5V output at 800mA in a TO-263 (DDPAK-5) surface mount package. This device features integrated over-current, over-temperature, and short-circuit protection with an enable control function. The product is currently obsolete, making equivalent substitute parts necessary for new designs and production continuity. Suitable alternatives must maintain the same output voltage, package form factor, and core protection features while meeting modern compliance standards.

Substiute Parts

LP3961ESX-5.0

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 1461LP3961ESX-5.0 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MCP1826-5002E/ET

Microchip TechnologyIn Stock: 2224MCP1826-5002E/ET Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the LP3961ESX-5.0 must satisfy the following criteria based on allowed electrical and mechanical parameters:

Output voltage must be fixed at 5V to maintain circuit compatibility. The package must be TO-263-6 (DDPAK-5) to ensure PCB layout compatibility without redesign. Operating temperature range must span -40°C to 125°C to support the same environmental conditions. Protection features must include at minimum over-temperature and short-circuit protection. The substitute must be in active product status to ensure long-term availability and supply chain reliability. RoHS3 compliance is required to meet current regulatory standards.

The MCP1826-5002E/ET from Microchip Technology meets all substitution criteria. While it provides higher output current capability (1A versus 800mA) and improved quiescent current performance, these represent enhancements rather than deviations from the core requirements. The identical package, voltage output, temperature range, and protection architecture enable direct functional replacement.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The MCP1826-5002E/ET is the qualified substitute for the obsolete LP3961ESX-5.0. Selection is based on the following engineering factors:

Product status transition from obsolete to active ensures supply chain continuity and eliminates long-term availability risk. Both devices maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, satisfying regulatory requirements. Identical package geometry (TO-263-6 DDPAK-5) and pinout enable direct PCB substitution without layout modification. Fixed 5V output voltage and matching operating temperature range (-40°C to 125°C) preserve circuit functionality across all specified conditions.

The MCP1826-5002E/ET provides enhanced performance characteristics including higher output current capability (1A versus 800mA), significantly lower quiescent current (220 µA versus 9 mA), and additional control features (Power Good output). These improvements do not introduce incompatibility and support improved power efficiency in battery-powered or low-power applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the MCP1826-5002E/ET directly replace the LP3961ESX-5.0 without PCB modifications?

A: Yes. Both devices use identical TO-263-6 (DDPAK-5) packaging with the same pinout. No PCB layout changes are required for direct substitution.

Q: What is the primary reason for substitution?

A: The LP3961ESX-5.0 is obsolete. The MCP1826-5002E/ET is an active product with guaranteed long-term availability and supply chain support.

Q: Are there differences in output voltage between these parts?

A: No. Both devices provide a fixed 5V output voltage. Circuit operation remains unchanged.

Q: How do the protection features compare?

A: The LP3961ESX-5.0 includes over-current, over-temperature, and short-circuit protection. The MCP1826-5002E/ET includes over-temperature, short-circuit, and under-voltage lockout (UVLO) protection. Both provide adequate protection for standard 5V regulator applications.

Q: What is the significance of the higher output current rating on the MCP1826-5002E/ET?

A: The MCP1826-5002E/ET is rated for 1A output current compared to 800mA on the LP3961ESX-5.0. This represents a performance enhancement that does not affect compatibility. Applications requiring only 800mA operate within the safe operating area of the substitute device.

Q: Are compliance certifications equivalent?

A: Yes. Both devices are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected. Regulatory compliance is maintained with the substitute part.

Q: What is the quiescent current difference, and does it matter?

A: The MCP1826-5002E/ET has significantly lower quiescent current (220 µA versus 9 mA). This improvement reduces standby power consumption and is beneficial for battery-powered applications. It does not create incompatibility.

Q: Does the MCP1826-5002E/ET require different circuit design considerations?

A: No. The substitute operates with the same input voltage range, output voltage, and package configuration. Standard linear regulator design practices apply to both devices.