MIC5504-3.3YM5: A 300mA Low-Dropout Voltage Regulator for Space-Constrained Applications

In the rapidly evolving world of electronics, the relentless drive towards miniaturization places immense pressure on power management design. Engineers are constantly challenged to deliver clean, stable power to sensitive ICs within ever-shrinking PCB footprints. Addressing this critical need, the MIC5504-3.3YM5 emerges as a premier solution, a 300mA low-dropout (LDO) voltage regulator engineered specifically for space-constrained applications.

The cornerstone of the MIC5504-3.3YM5's appeal is its remarkably small package. Housed in a 1.0mm x 1.5mm WCSP-4 (Wafer Chip Scale Package), this LDO occupies a minimal board area, making it an ideal candidate for portable devices such as smartphones, wearables, IoT sensors, and other compact electronics where every square millimeter is precious. Despite its tiny size, it does not compromise on performance or ease of use.

Performance and Key Features

This regulator is designed to provide a fixed 3.3V output from an input supply ranging from 2.7V to 5.5V. Its low dropout voltage—typically 120mV at 100mA load and 300mA at 200mA—ensures high efficiency and allows it to continue regulating even when the input voltage dips very close to the output level. This is crucial for battery-powered applications, as it extends battery life by enabling operation until the battery is nearly depleted.

Beyond its small size, the MIC5504-3.3YM5 integrates several features that enhance system reliability and simplify design:

Excellent Load and Line Regulation: It maintains a stable output voltage despite variations in input voltage or output current.

Low Quiescent Current: Consuming only 55µA typical quiescent current under load, it maximizes efficiency in always-on applications.

Internal Current Limit and Thermal Shutdown: These built-in protection features safeguard the regulator and the downstream circuitry from damage due to overloads or excessive temperatures.

Stable with a Small 1µF Ceramic Capacitor: It requires only a small, low-ESR output capacitor for stability, further saving board space and cost.

Application Highlights

The primary strength of the MIC5504-3.3YM5 lies in powering noise-sensitive sub-circuits that require a clean voltage rail derived from a higher system voltage. Common use cases include:

Providing a clean 3.3V rail for microcontrollers (MCUs), sensors, and RF modules from a noisy 5V or a draining Li-Ion battery rail.

Serving as a localized point-of-load (PoL) regulator to avoid noise propagation across the PCB.

Acting as a secondary power regulator in portable consumer electronics to isolate analog and digital power domains.

ICGOODFIND Summary

The MIC5504-3.3YM5 stands out as an exceptional power management component that perfectly balances miniature form factor, robust performance, and critical protection features. It is a top-tier choice for designers who must achieve high power integrity in the most demanding space-constrained environments, ensuring both device reliability and extended battery runtime.

Keywords: Low-Dropout Regulator, Space-Constrained Applications, 300mA LDO, WCSP Package, Power Management