The MIC2937A family is a "bulletproof" high efficiency regulator with very low step-down (typically 40mV at light loads and 300mV at 500mA) and very low static current (typically 160µA). The MIC2937A has only a slight increase in static current, which extends battery life. Key features of the MIC2937A include battery reversal protection, retracting current limitation, and vehicle "load dump" protection (60V positive transient).
Schematic diagram
The MIC2937 is available in a variety of configurations. The MIC2937A-xx device is a three-pin fixed voltage regulator that provides 3.3V, 5V, and 12V outputs. The MIC29371 is a fixed voltage regulator that provides logically-compatible ON/OFF switch input and error flag output. This flag can also be used as a power-on reset signal. A logically-compatible off input is provided on the adjustable MIC29372 to enable the regulator to switch on and off.
The MIC2937A is ideal for automotive applications for a variety of reasons. It will operate over a wide range of input voltages, with a very low dropout voltage(40mV for light loads) and a very low static current (typically 100µa). These characteristics are necessary for the use of battery powered systems such as automobiles. It is a "bulletproof" device capable of surviving both reverse battery (negative transient below 20V underground) and load dump (positive transient below 60V) conditions. The wide operating temperature range of the low temperature coefficient is another reason to use these multifunctional regulators in vehicle design.
