The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

National Semiconductor Introduces 150mA LDO Voltage Regulator for Keyless Entry, Security, and Lighting Systems in Automotive and Industrial Applications

SANTA CLARA, Calif., April 19 -- National Semiconductor Corporation today introduced an ultra-low quiescent current low voltage dropout (LDO) regulator that expands National's portfolio of power management devices for the automotive and industrial markets.

"As the electronic content of cars steadily increases, auto makers rely more and more on high performance regulators such as National's LM9076," said Tom Freeze, vice president of National Semiconductor's Enhanced Solutions product group. "Power systems that continue to run even after the engine is shut off -- such as security, keyless entry, lighting and other 'keep alive' electronics -- must draw as little current as possible and not drain the vehicle's battery. The ultra-low current of the LM9076 is ideal for these system applications."

The LM9076, a 150mA LDO voltage regulator, is available in 5V with other voltage options to follow. It contains a variety of protection features such as thermal shutdown, input transient protection and a wide operating temperature. The LM9076 has a quiescent current of 25 microamps typical for a 0.1mA load. The LM9076 features a simplified circuit design, which is rugged enough to withstand harsh automotive environments with voltage transients up to +70V/-50V.

With a wide operating temperature range, the LM9076 is well suited for all automotive environments, from cockpit to "under the hood" applications. It features on/off control, delayed reset output and a variety of other protection features. Its current load range allows it to function in both "keep alive" and normal operations, all in a single device. Additionally, due to its wide voltage range and wide current load, this single device can be used in multiple applications.

National's Analog Technology Makes Automobiles Smarter

National has supplied silicon for the automotive market since silicon made its first appearance in vehicles more than four decades ago. With a broad portfolio of more than 250 standard and customized products, National's chips are found in nearly every automobile sub-system. Silicon chips are becoming an increasingly important part of automobile design and manufacturing as car makers adopt new technology that appeals to consumers. Whether it's power management, operational amplifiers, temperature sensors, Bluetooth(R) wireless technology, microcontrollers or image sensors, National continues to meet the demands of today's automotive systems and emerging systems such as telematics, infotainment, driver information and automation systems, wireless connectivity, in-vehicle networking and drive-by-wire. For more information on National's Enhanced Solutions products, visit http://www.national.com/appinfo/es/overview.html .

Pricing and Availability

National's LM9076 is available now in 8-pin SOIC NARROW packaging and is priced at $0.89 in 1,000-unit quantities. The LM9076 is available now in 5- pin TO 263 packaging and is priced at $0.95 in 1,000-unit quantities. More information on the LM9076 is available at http://www.national.com/pf/LM/LM9076.html . A high resolution, downloadable photo is available at http://www.national.com/company/pressroom/gallery/es.html .

About National Semiconductor

National Semiconductor, the industry's premier analog company, creates high performance analog devices and subsystems. National's leading-edge products include power management circuits, display drivers, audio and operational amplifiers, imaging sensors and data conversion solutions. National's key markets include wireless handsets, displays, PCs, networks and a broad range of portable applications. With headquarters in Santa Clara, California, National reported sales of $1.67 billion for fiscal 2003, which ended May 25, 2003. Additional company and product information is available at www.national.com.

NOTE: Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and is used under license by National Semiconductor.