NJM79L08A Linear Voltage Regulator Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The NJM79L08A is a linear voltage regulator IC manufactured by Nisshinbo Micro Devices Inc., designed to provide a fixed negative output of -8V at 100mA. This device belongs to the Power Management (PMIC) category and is packaged in a TO-92-3 through-hole configuration.

The NJM79L08A is classified as an obsolete product. Due to its discontinued status and limited availability from the original manufacturer, identifying functionally equivalent substitute parts is essential for ongoing system maintenance, repair, and new design implementations where negative voltage regulation at -8V and 100mA output is required.

Substiute Parts

NJM79L08A

Nisshinbo Micro Devices Inc.In Stock: 2296NJM79L08A Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

L79L08ACD13TR

STMicroelectronicsIn Stock: 22708L79L08ACD13TR Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the NJM79L08A must satisfy the following core electrical and mechanical criteria to ensure functional equivalence:

Critical Matching Parameters:

• Output Configuration: Negative
• Output Voltage: -8V (fixed)
• Maximum Output Current: 100mA minimum
• Maximum Input Voltage: -30V or greater (in magnitude)
• Protection Features: Over Temperature and Short Circuit protection
• Number of Regulators: 1 output

Acceptable Variation Parameters:

• Quiescent Current (Iq): May vary within reasonable limits for the device category
• PSRR: May vary; lower values are acceptable if other parameters match
• Operating Temperature Range: May differ; substitute must cover the application's required range
• Mounting Type and Package: May differ (through-hole to surface-mount conversion is acceptable with appropriate PCB design considerations)
• Product Status: Active products are preferred over obsolete alternatives
• RoHS Compliance: Preferred but not mandatory for legacy system compatibility

The L79L08ACD13TR from STMicroelectronics meets all critical electrical parameters and is classified as an active product with improved compliance certifications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Electrical Compatibility: The L79L08ACD13TR provides full electrical equivalence to the NJM79L08A. Both devices deliver -8V fixed output at 100mA with identical input voltage ratings and protection features. The substitute's quiescent current of 5.5mA is marginally lower than the original 6mA, representing a minor improvement. The PSRR difference (45dB vs. 68dB) is acceptable for applications where the original PSRR specification was not a critical design constraint.

Product Status and Compliance: The L79L08ACD13TR holds active product status from STMicroelectronics, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain reliability. The substitute is ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting modern environmental and regulatory requirements. The NJM79L08A's obsolete status and non-compliant RoHS classification make the substitute the preferred choice for new designs and long-term system support.

Packaging and Integration Considerations: The primary difference between these devices is packaging: the NJM79L08A uses through-hole TO-92-3, while the L79L08ACD13TR uses surface-mount 8-SOIC. This difference requires PCB redesign if direct board-level substitution is intended. For through-hole applications, adapter modules or custom PCB layouts with surface-mount to through-hole conversion may be necessary. For new designs, the surface-mount L79L08ACD13TR is recommended to leverage modern manufacturing processes and improved compliance certifications.

Operating Temperature: The L79L08ACD13TR operates across 0°C to 125°C, which exceeds the NJM79L08A's -40°C to 85°C range. For applications requiring the full -40°C lower limit, the substitute's reduced lower temperature specification must be evaluated against actual system requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can the L79L08ACD13TR directly replace the NJM79L08A on an existing PCB?

A: Direct PCB replacement is not possible due to different package types. The NJM79L08A uses through-hole TO-92-3 packaging, while the L79L08ACD13TR uses surface-mount 8-SOIC. PCB redesign or use of an adapter module is required. For new designs, the L79L08ACD13TR is recommended without adaptation.

Q2: Are the electrical specifications identical between these two parts?

A: The critical electrical specifications are identical: both provide -8V fixed output at 100mA with -30V maximum input voltage and identical protection features. Minor differences exist in quiescent current (6mA vs. 5.5mA) and PSRR (68dB vs. 45dB), both favoring the substitute. These differences do not affect functional equivalence for standard negative voltage regulation applications.

Q3: Why is the L79L08ACD13TR preferred despite being a different package?

A: The L79L08ACD13TR is preferred because it is an active product with ROHS3 compliance and REACH compliance, whereas the NJM79L08A is obsolete and non-compliant. Active product status ensures long-term availability, supply chain stability, and access to manufacturer support. For new designs, the surface-mount package aligns with modern manufacturing standards.

Q4: What is the operating temperature difference, and does it matter?

A: The NJM79L08A operates from -40°C to 85°C, while the L79L08ACD13TR operates from 0°C to 125°C. If your application requires operation below 0°C, the substitute's lower temperature limit must be verified against system requirements. For most commercial and industrial applications operating above 0°C, the substitute is fully suitable.

Q5: Can I use the L79L08ACD13TR in a through-hole design without modification?

A: No. The L79L08ACD13TR is a surface-mount device in 8-SOIC package. Using it in a through-hole design requires either PCB redesign to accommodate surface-mount components or use of an SMD-to-DIP adapter module. Direct insertion into through-hole footprints designed for TO-92-3 is not possible.

Q6: Are there any other substitute options for the NJM79L08A?

A: Based on the provided substitute list, the L79L08ACD13TR is the identified equivalent. Other negative -8V 100mA linear regulators may exist in the market, but only the L79L08ACD13TR is confirmed as a direct substitute meeting all critical electrical and functional parameters.

Q7: What certifications does the L79L08ACD13TR hold?

A: The L79L08ACD13TR is ROHS3 compliant, REACH unaffected, and classified under ECCN EAR99 and HTSUS 8542.39.0001. It carries Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) 1, indicating unlimited shelf life without moisture control measures.