MC7908ACT Linear Voltage Regulator - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MC7908ACT is a linear voltage regulator IC manufactured by onsemi, designed to provide a fixed negative 8V output at 1A current capacity in a TO-220-3 package. This device is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent substitute parts essential for ongoing system support and component procurement.

The MC7908ACT serves applications requiring stable negative voltage regulation with integrated over-current and over-temperature protection. Due to its obsolete status, alternative parts with matching electrical and mechanical specifications are necessary for design continuity and production support.

Substiute Parts

MC7908ACT

onsemiIn Stock: 923MC7908ACT Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MC7908ACTG

onsemiIn Stock: 1170MC7908ACTG Datasheet

DirectRFQ

L7908CV

STMicroelectronicsIn Stock: 88990L7908CV Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the MC7908ACT are identified based on the following critical parameters that determine functional equivalence:

• Output Configuration: Negative voltage regulation
• Output Voltage: Fixed -8V
• Package / Case: TO-220-3 form factor
• Mounting Type: Through Hole
• Operating Temperature Range: 0°C ~ 125°C
• Protection Features: Over-current and over-temperature protection capability

Substitute parts are grouped into two categories:

Direct Manufacturer Substitute: MC7908ACTG (onsemi) — identical electrical specifications with packaging variation (Tube vs. standard packaging) and improved RoHS3 compliance status.

Similar Manufacturer Substitute: L7908CV (STMicroelectronics) — functionally equivalent with enhanced output current capacity (1.5A vs. 1A) and improved voltage dropout characteristics, maintaining TO-220-3 package compatibility.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

MC7908ACTG is the direct substitute from onsemi with identical electrical performance. This part is preferred for applications requiring component-level compatibility with the original MC7908ACT design. The MC7908ACTG offers improved RoHS3 compliance status, making it suitable for modern manufacturing environments with environmental regulatory requirements.

L7908CV from STMicroelectronics is a functionally equivalent alternative with enhanced specifications. The increased output current capacity (1.5A vs. 1A) and improved voltage dropout (1.1V vs. 1.3V @ 1A) provide performance headroom for applications operating near maximum current limits. This part is suitable for designs where the original 1A specification is marginal or where improved efficiency is beneficial. L7908CV also provides RoHS3 compliance and maintains full TO-220-3 package compatibility.

Both substitute parts maintain the same negative voltage output, input voltage range, operating temperature range, and through-hole mounting configuration as the original MC7908ACT, ensuring direct circuit board compatibility without layout modifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can MC7908ACTG be used as a direct replacement for MC7908ACT?

A: Yes. MC7908ACTG is the direct onsemi substitute with identical electrical specifications, output voltage (-8V), output current (1A), input voltage range (-35V max), and TO-220-3 package configuration. The primary difference is improved RoHS3 compliance status.

Q: What are the key differences between MC7908ACT and L7908CV?

A: Both parts provide -8V fixed output in TO-220-3 packages with identical input voltage ratings and operating temperature ranges. L7908CV offers higher output current capacity (1.5A vs. 1A) and lower voltage dropout (1.1V vs. 1.3V @ 1A). Protection features differ slightly: MC7908ACT includes over-current protection, while L7908CV includes short-circuit protection.

Q: Is the TO-220-3 package identical across all three parts?

A: Yes. All three parts (MC7908ACT, MC7908ACTG, and L7908CV) use the TO-220-3 package with through-hole mounting, ensuring identical PCB footprint and thermal management characteristics.

Q: Can L7908CV be used in applications designed for MC7908ACT?

A: Yes. L7908CV is functionally equivalent with enhanced current capacity and improved dropout voltage. The higher current rating (1.5A) and lower dropout provide performance margin. Pin configuration and package are identical, requiring no circuit modifications.

Q: What is the significance of RoHS3 compliance for substitute selection?

A: RoHS3 compliance indicates conformance to current environmental and hazardous substance restrictions. MC7908ACTG and L7908CV both meet RoHS3 requirements, making them suitable for applications with regulatory compliance mandates. The original MC7908ACT is RoHS non-compliant, which may restrict its use in certain manufacturing environments.

Q: Are there thermal management differences between these parts?

A: All three parts use the TO-220-3 package with identical thermal characteristics. Thermal performance depends on PCB layout, heatsinking, and ambient conditions rather than part selection among these equivalents.