AAT3238
300mA MicroPower™
High Performance LDO Linear Regulator
Functional Block Diagram
OUT
IN
Active
Feedback
Control
Over-Current
Protection
Over-
Temperature
Protection
+
Error
Amplifier
-
Fast
Start
Control
Voltage
Reference
EN
BYP
GND
required. This rapid transient response behavior is
accomplished through the implementation of an
active error amplifier feedback control. This propri-
etary circuit design is unique to this MicroPower LDO
regulator.
Functional Description
The AAT3238 is intended for LDO regulator applica-
tions where output current load requirements range
from no load to 300mA.
The LDO regulator output has been specifically opti-
mized to function with low-cost, low-ESR ceramic
capacitors. However, the design will allow for opera-
tion over a wide range of capacitor types.
The advanced circuit design of the AAT3238 has
been specifically optimized for very fast start-up and
shutdown timing. This proprietary CMOS LDO has
also been tailored for superior transient response
characteristics. These traits are particularly important
for applications that require fast power supply timing,
such as GSM cellular telephone handsets.
A bypass pin has been provided to allow the addition
of an optional voltage reference bypass capacitor to
reduce output self noise and increase power supply
ripple rejection. Device self noise and PSRR will be
improved by the addition of a small ceramic capacitor
in this pin. However, increased values of CBYPASS
may slow down the LDO regulator turn-on time.
The high-speed turn-on capability of the AAT3238 is
enabled through the implementation of a fast start
control circuit, which accelerates the power-up behav-
ior of fundamental control and feedback circuits with-
in the LDO regulator.
This LDO regulator has complete short-circuit and
thermal protection. The integral combination of these
two internal protection circuits gives the AAT3238 a
comprehensive safety system to guard against
extreme adverse operating conditions. Device power
dissipation is limited to the package type and thermal
Fast turn-off response time is achieved by an active
output pull-down circuit, which is enabled when the
LDO regulator is placed in the shutdown mode. This
active fast shutdown circuit has no adverse effect on
normal device operation.
dissipation properties.
Refer to the Thermal
The AAT3238 has very fast transient response char-
acteristics, which is an important feature for applica-
tions where fast line and load transient response is
Considerations section of this datasheet for details on
device operation at maximum output current loads.
8
3238.2006.11.1.6