L7912CV Voltage Regulator

Product Description

The L7912CV Voltage Regulator is a linear negative voltage regulator designed to provide a fixed −12 V output with high stability and reliable performance. It belongs to the 79xx family of regulators and is widely used in power supply circuits where a stable negative voltage is required.

This regulator is ideal for applications such as analog circuits, op-amp systems, communication devices, and other electronic projects requiring a regulated negative voltage rail. With built-in overload protection and thermal shutdown, the L7912CV delivers consistent performance even under varying load conditions.

✨ Key Features

• Fixed −12 V output

• Easy to use — requires minimal external components

• Wide input voltage range for versatile application

• Internal current limiting for protection against overloads

• Thermal shutdown protection for safe operation

• Low noise and high regulation accuracy

• Compatible with standard through-hole PCB mounting

📐 Technical Specifications

• Model: L7912CV

• Output Voltage: −12 V (fixed)

• Output Current: Up to 1 A (typical)

• Input Voltage Range: Typically −14.5 V to −35 V (must be more negative than output)

• Regulation Type: Linear

• Voltage Tolerance: ±4% (typical)

• Dropout Voltage: ~2 V (typical)

• Quiescent Current: Low operating current

• Protection Features:

  • Overcurrent/short-circuit protection

  • Thermal overload shutdown

• Package Type: TO-220 (commonly)

• Mounting Style: Through-hole PCB mounting

• Operating Temperature Range: −40 °C to +125 °C (approximate)

🧰 Typical Applications

• Power supplies requiring −12 V regulation

• Dual supply analog circuits (±12 V systems)

• Operational amplifier (op-amp) based designs

• Communication and instrumentation electronics

• Audio amplifiers and signal processing circuits

📌 How It Works (Quick Overview)

1. Input Power: Connect an unregulated negative voltage that is at least a couple volts more negative than −12 V.

2. Regulation: The L7912CV stabilizes this input to deliver a steady −12 V output.

3. Protection: Built-in circuitry protects against overloads and excessive temperature.