TEXAS INSTRUMENTS 7905 -5V Linear Voltage Regulator, TO-92-3

The TEXAS INSTRUMENTS 7905 Linear Voltage Regulator is a high-performance, 3-terminal negative voltage regulator designed to deliver a stable and fixed -5V output from an input voltage range of -20V to -7V. It is engineered using advanced techniques to optimise thermal and electrical performance, ensuring reliable operation in a variety of electronic applications. The device is capable of supplying output currents in excess of 100mA, making it suitable for powering low-power circuits and components.

Key Features & Protection

This regulator incorporates comprehensive self-protection circuitry for enhanced durability and safety. It features safe operating area (SOA) protection to limit output transistor power dissipation, a temperature-independent short-circuit current limit to control peak output current, and an integrated thermal shutdown circuit to prevent excessive junction temperature. When used with a minimum 0.1µF output capacitor, it provides excellent transient response, along with superior line regulation of 0.07% VO/V and load regulation of 0.01% VO/mA.

Versatility & Performance

While designed as a fixed voltage regulator, it can be easily combined with simple external components to create boosted or adjustable voltage and current outputs. The preset output voltage maintains an error of less than ±5% across variations in load, input line, and operating temperature. Its through-hole TO-92-3 package facilitates easy mounting and integration into prototyping boards and permanent circuits.

Applications

Primarily intended for power management in industrial and general electronic designs, this green-compliant component (free from antimony and bromine) is an excellent choice for creating reliable, negative voltage rails in power supplies, audio equipment, instrumentation, and other sensitive electronic systems where stable voltage is critical.