Infineon BCR198W: Low-Drop Regulator for General Purpose Applications

The Infineon BCR198W is a monolithic integrated low-drop voltage regulator designed to deliver a stable and reliable output for a broad range of general-purpose applications. Housed in a compact SOT-143 package, this device combines essential regulation functions with low dropout performance, making it an efficient solution for space-constrained and power-sensitive designs.

A key feature of the BCR198W is its ability to provide a fixed 5 V output voltage with a high degree of accuracy, sourced from an input voltage range of up to 42 V. This wide operating range allows it to be used in various contexts, from automotive electronics to industrial control systems and consumer appliances, where voltage rails can be noisy or unregulated. The device can deliver output currents of up to 30 mA, sufficient for powering low-power microcontrollers, sensors, and reference circuits.

The low dropout voltage characteristic ensures that the regulator continues to operate efficiently even when the input voltage is only slightly higher than the output level. This minimizes power dissipation and helps improve the overall energy efficiency of the system. Additionally, the BCR198W incorporates internal current limiting and thermal shutdown protection, enhancing device durability under fault conditions such as short circuits or overtemperature scenarios.

Another notable advantage is its minimal external component requirement. Unlike more complex switching regulators, the BCR198W only requires a few external capacitors for stable operation, simplifying board layout and reducing both system cost and footprint.

Whether used for voltage stabilization in signal conditioning circuits, as a bias supply for analog subsystems, or in battery-powered devices requiring consistent voltage levels, the BCR198W offers a robust and cost-effective regulation solution.

ICGOODFIND: The Infineon BCR198W stands out as a versatile, low-drop linear regulator ideal for general-purpose designs where simplicity, reliability, and efficient performance are critical. Its integration of protection features and wide input voltage support makes it a pragmatic choice for modern electronic systems.

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Keywords: Low-Dropout Regulator, Fixed 5V Output, Wide Input Voltage Range, SOT-143 Package, Current Limiting