LM338 5A adjustable regulator

The LM338 is a high-current adjustable voltage regulator designed to provide a stable and regulated output voltage with high current capabilities. It can supply up to 5A of output current and is commonly used in power supplies and voltage regulation applications where adjustable output voltage is required. The LM338 offers flexibility in design and ease of use, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Key Features:

• Adjustable output voltage for customizable applications
• High current capability up to 5A
• Low dropout voltage for improved performance in low-voltage applications
• Built-in thermal overload protection and short-circuit protection
• Simple design with minimal external components
• Compatible with a wide range of input and output voltages

Technical Specifications:

• Input Voltage Range: Up to 40V
• Output Voltage Range: Adjustable from 1.2V to 37V
• Output Current: Up to 5A
• Dropout Voltage: Typically 2V (depends on output current and temperature)
• Line Regulation: Typically 0.01%/V
• Load Regulation: Typically 0.1% (at 5A load)
• Thermal Overload Protection: Integrated
• Short-Circuit Protection: Integrated
• Package Type: Available in TO-220, TO-3, and other packages

Applications:

• Power supplies for electronic devices
• Adjustable voltage regulators
• Battery chargers
• Voltage regulation in DC-DC converters
• Laboratory power supplies
• Testing and prototyping

Usage:

1. Connect the input voltage to the appropriate pins of the LM338, ensuring the input voltage is within the specified range.
2. Use external resistors to set the desired output voltage according to the formula provided in the datasheet.
3. Connect the load to the output and ensure that the current requirements do not exceed the regulator’s maximum capacity.
4. Implement appropriate heat sinking if operating at high currents to ensure thermal stability and prevent overheating.

Caution:

• Verify the input and output voltage ratings are within the specified limits to avoid damage.
• Properly size and place external components (e.g., capacitors, resistors) to achieve desired performance and stability.
• Ensure adequate cooling and heat dissipation to prevent thermal shutdown and ensure reliable operation.

Datasheet:
For detailed technical specifications, refer to the LM338 Datasheet.