SNVS771C May   1998  – December 2016 LM138 , LM338

PRODUCTION DATA.  

  1. 1 Features
  2. 2 Applications
  3. 3 Description
  4. 4 Revision History
  5. 5 Pin Configuration and Functions
  6. 6 Specifications
    1. 6.1 Absolute Maximum Ratings
    2. 6.2 Recommended Operating Conditions
    3. 6.3 Thermal Information
    4. 6.4 Electrical Characteristics: LM138
    5. 6.5 Electrical Characteristics: LM338
    6. 6.6 Typical Characteristics
  7. 7 Detailed Description
    1. 7.1 Overview
    2. 7.2 Functional Block Diagram
    3. 7.3 Feature Description
      1. 7.3.1 NPN Darlington Output Drive
      2. 7.3.2 Overload Block
      3. 7.3.3 Programmable Feedback
    4. 7.4 Device Functional Modes
      1. 7.4.1 Normal Operation
      2. 7.4.2 Operation With Low Input Voltage
      3. 7.4.3 Operation at Light Loads
      4. 7.4.4 Operation in Self Protection
  8. 8 Application and Implementation
    1. 8.1 Application Information
    2. 8.2 Typical Applications
      1. 8.2.1 Constant 5-V Regulator
        1. 8.2.1.1 Design Requirements
        2. 8.2.1.2 Detailed Design Procedure
          1. 8.2.1.2.1 External Capacitors
          2. 8.2.1.2.2 Load Regulation
          3. 8.2.1.2.3 Protection Diodes
        3. 8.2.1.3 Application Curves
    3. 8.3 System Examples
  9. 9 Power Supply Recommendations
  10. 10Layout
    1. 10.1 Layout Guidelines
    2. 10.2 Layout Example
  11. 11Device and Documentation Support
    1. 11.1 Receiving Notification of Documentation Updates
    2. 11.2 Related Links
    3. 11.3 Community Resources
    4. 11.4 Trademarks
    5. 11.5 Electrostatic Discharge Caution
    6. 11.6 Glossary
  12. 12Mechanical, Packaging, and Orderable Information

Package Options

Mechanical Data (Package|Pins)
Thermal pad, mechanical data (Package|Pins)
Orderable Information

9 Power Supply Recommendations

The input supply to LM138 and LM338 must be kept at a voltage level such that its maximum input to output differential voltage rating is not exceeded. The minimum dropout voltage must also be met with extra headroom when possible to keep the LM138 and LM338 in regulation. TI recommends a capacitor be placed at the input to bypass noise.