LM338 5A Adjustable Positive Voltage Regulator TO-220

LM338 5A Adjustable Positive Voltage Regulator TO-220 is a versatile linear regulator capable of supplying over 5A of load current with an adjustable output voltage. It is ideal for high-current applications where stable and regulated output is required. The TO-220 package makes it suitable for mounting with heatsinks in power supply and DIY electronics projects.

Key Features:

• Adjustable Output: Output voltage adjustable from 1.25V to 32V.
• High Output Current: Delivers over 5A of load current with proper heatsinking.
• Thermal Overload Protection: Automatically shuts down in case of overheating.
• Short-Circuit Protection: Built-in current limiting for device safety.
• Safe Area Compensation: Maintains operation within safe operating area at all loads.

Technical Specifications:

• Output Voltage Range: 1.25V to 32V (adjustable)
• Output Current: Up to 5A
• Line Regulation: Typically 0.005%/V
• Load Regulation: Typically 0.1%
• Dropout Voltage: 2 to 2.5V depending on load
• Reference Voltage: 1.25V (typical)
• Ripple Rejection: 86dB (typical)
• Thermal Resistance: 4°C/W junction-to-case

Mechanical Specifications:

• Package Type: TO-220
• Pin Configuration: Pin 1 (Adjust), Pin 2 (Output), Pin 3 (Input)
• Heatsink Compatibility: Required for full 5A operation
• Mounting: Through-hole for PCB or chassis

Mounting Options:

• PCB Mount: Suitable for standard through-hole PCB designs.
• Chassis Mount: Can be mounted with a heatsink and insulating hardware.

Schematic Diagram, Connection, Wiring and Pinout:

• Input: Connect unregulated DC voltage (e.g., from transformer/rectifier).
• Output: Connect to load via filtering capacitor for stability.
• Adjustment: Use a voltage divider with resistors between adjust and output pins.
• Pinout: Pin 1 (Adjust), Pin 2 (Output), Pin 3 (Input), metal tab = Output

Datasheet and Documentation:

• Download LM338 Voltage Regulator Datasheet (PDF)

Applications:

• Adjustable Power Supplies: Used for building lab and DIY regulated power sources.
• Battery Chargers: Provides constant voltage for charging lead-acid batteries.
• Solar Power Systems: Regulates voltage from solar panels to batteries.
• Motor Drivers: Supplies regulated power to motors in embedded systems.
• LED Drivers: Delivers stable power to high-power LEDs.

Equivalent Models:

• LM350: 3A adjustable regulator with similar design and function
• LM317 with Pass Transistor: Can be used as a lower current alternative with boosted output
• LT1083: High-current adjustable regulator from Linear Tech

Package Includes:

• 1 x LM338 5A Adjustable Voltage Regulator TO-220