The LM2596 series of regulators are monolithic integrated circuits that provide all the active functions for a step-down (buck) switching regulator, capable of driving a 3-A load with excellent line and load regulation. These devices are available in fixed output voltages of 3.3 V, 5 V, 12 V, and an adjustable output version.

Requiring a minimum number of external components, these regulators are simple to use and include internal frequency compensation, and a fixed-frequency oscillator.

The LM2596 series operates at a switching frequency of 150 kHz, thus allowing smaller sized filter components than what can be required with lower frequency switching regulators. Available in a standard 5-pin TO-220 package with several different lead bend options, and a 5-pin TO-263 surface mount package.

A standard series of inductors are available from several different manufacturers optimized for use with the LM2596 series. This feature greatly simplifies the design of switch-mode power supplies.

Other features include a ±4% tolerance on output voltage under specified input voltage and output load conditions, and ±15% on the oscillator frequency. External shutdown is included, featuring typically 80 µA standby current. Self-protection features include a two stage frequency reducing current limit for the output switch and an overtemperature shutdown for complete protection under fault conditions.

• New product available:

• LMR51430 4.5 to 36-V, 3-A, 500-kHz and 1.1-MHz synchronous converter

• For faster time to market:

• TLVM13630 3 to 36-V, 3-A, 200-kHz to 2.2-MHz power module

• 3.3-V, 5-V, 12-V, and adjustable output versions

• Adjustable version output voltage range: 1.2-V to 37-V ±4% maximum over line and load conditions

• Available in TO-220 and TO-263 packages

• 3-A output load current

• Input voltage range up to 40 V

• Requires only four external components

• Excellent line and load regulation specifications

• 150-kHz fixed-frequency internal oscillator

• TTL shutdown capability

• Low power standby mode, I Q, typically 80 µA

• High efficiency

• Uses readily available standard inductors

• Thermal shutdown and current-limit protection

• Create a custom design using the LM2596 with the WEBENCH Power Designer