High-efficiency three-terminal switching regulators upgraded

Update: March 24, 2023

RECOM has upgraded its R-78 series switching regulators. The series of three-terminal switching regulators has been a popular high-efficiency replacement for three-terminal, TO-220 style linear regulators, saving board space, energy, and cost, by eradicating heatsinks and their assembly overheads. Its upgrade to the series, denoted R-78Kxx, offers improved specifications. Versions rated at 0.5A, 1A, and 2A are offered, with fixed outputs now comprising 1.2V, 1.5V, 1.8V, 2.5V, and 6.5V, depending on model, and the traditional outputs 3.3V, 5V, 9V, 12V, and 15V. Input voltage range has been expanded to 36V maximum, and peak efficiency over the range has improved to 96%, enabling all parts to function at 90C ambient – many with no derating.

All series parts offer under-voltage lockout and short-circuit protection with automatic recovery and meet EN 55032 class B EMC specifications with a simple input filter. The 0.5A and 1A rated versions are provided in a SIP-3 miniature package, with a footprint of 11.5mm x 7.55mm and a height of 10.2mm, while the 2A version is in an 11.5mm x 8.5mm footprint and 17.5mm high, again in a SIP-3 arrangement.

“This is a significant upgrade to our economical and successful R-78 series, making them even more versatile with more output options and a wider input and operating temperature range,” comments Matthew Dauterive, MSc DC-DC product manager of RECOM.