LT1020

The LT1020 is a combination micropower positive regulator and free collector comparator on a single monolithic chip. With only 40mA supply current, the LT1020 can supply over 125mA of output current. Input voltage range is from 4.5V to 36V and dropout voltage is 0.6V at 125mA. Dropout voltage decreases with lower load currents. Also included on the chip is a class B output 2.5V reference that can either source or sink current. A dropout detector provides an output current to indicate when the regulator is about to drop out of regulation.

The dual output comparator of LT1020 can be used as a comparator for system or battery monitoring. For example, the comparator can be used to warn of low system voltage while the dropout detector shuts down the system to prevent abnormal operation. Frequency compensation of the comparator for amplifier applications can be obtained by adding external output capacitance. Dual output or positive and negative regulators can also be made.

The 2.5V reference will source or sink current. This allows it to be used as a supply splitter or auxiliary output.