STMicroelectronics

L7986A - 3A 61V Step-Down Switching Regulator | STMicroelectronics

Name: L7986A
Brand: STMicroelectronics
Price: 2.85 USD
Availability: InStock

MPN: L7986A ✓ Active

In Stock (99,999) Ships in 1-3 business days

4.5 V to 61 V Vdss 3 A Id 250 mOhm Rds(on) HSOP-8 Package 250 kHz Speed

$2.85 USD / Unit

MOQ: 1 |

Volume Pricing

Qty	Unit Price	Extended
1	$2.85	$2.85
10	$2.56	$25.60
100	$2.28	$228.00
500	$2.05	$1,025.00
1,000	$1.82	$1,820.00

ℹ️ All prices are in USD

View Datasheet (PDF) View Alternatives

Quantity

Drop-in alternatives for L7986A — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.

Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:

L7986ATR

✅ Drop-In

📦 HSOP-8

Same device, tape and reel packaging

📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)

L7986TR

✅ Drop-In

STMicroelectronics

📦 HSOP-8

Step-Down (Buck) Switching Regulator · 4.5 V to 61 V · 0.6 V to VIN · 3 A · 250 kHz · Adjustable · No · Yes

✓ 99,999 In Stock

$1.85 / Unit

View Datasheet →

L7987A

✅ Drop-In

📦 HSOP-8

Higher output current (4A vs 3A)

📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)

TPS54360

✅ Drop-In

📦 HSOP-8

Cross-brand, similar input range and current

📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)

LT8610

✅ Drop-In

📦 HSOP-8

Cross-brand, higher switching frequency

📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)

L7986A Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics

Input Voltage Range	4.5 V to 61 V
Output Voltage Range	0.6 V to VIN
Maximum Output Current	3 A
Switching Frequency	250 kHz
High-Side MOSFET On-Resistance	250 mOhm
Reference Voltage	0.6 V
Quiescent Current	2.5 mA
Shutdown Supply Current	10 uA
Soft-Start Time	1 ms (typical)
Thermal Shutdown	Yes
Operating Temperature Range	-40C to +150C
Package	HSOP-8
Mounting Type	Surface Mount
RoHS Status	Compliant
PGOOD Output	Open-drain

L7986A Pin Configuration

Pin 1	SW — Switch node output
Pin 2	GND — Ground
Pin 3	FB — Feedback input
Pin 4	EN — Enable input
Pin 5	PGOOD — Power good output
Pin 6	VCC — Supply voltage
Pin 7	VIN — Input voltage
Pin 8	GND — Ground

Safe Operating Area (SOA) & Thermal Characteristics

No official SOA curve available for this component. Always operate within absolute maximum ratings specified in the datasheet. Ensure adequate cooling and derate as needed.

Typical Applications

L7986A is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Power Supplies, Industrial Control Systems, Distributed Power Architectures, Telecommunication Equipment, LED Lighting Systems, Test and Measurement Equipment.

🚗

Automotive Power Supplies

The L7986A is ideal for automotive power supplies due to its wide input voltage range of 4.5V to 61V, which accommodates 12V and 24V battery systems and handles voltage transients. Its high efficiency reduces heat dissipation in the engine compartment. In a typical automotive application, the L7986A steps down the battery voltage to 5V or 3.3V for microcontrollers, sensors, and infotainment systems. The PGOOD output ensures proper power sequencing for safety-critical systems. The device's thermal shutdown protection prevents damage during over-temperature conditions, which is crucial in high-temperature automotive environments.

Recommended

STM32F103 (Microcontroller powered by L7986A) L9680 (Automotive driver IC)

🏭

Industrial Control Systems

In industrial control systems, the L7986A steps down 24V or 48V rails to lower voltages for logic circuits, sensors, and actuators. Its wide input range and high efficiency make it suitable for factory automation and process control. The fixed 250kHz switching frequency allows for a compact design with small external components. The soft-start feature limits inrush current, protecting the input supply and downstream components. The device's operating temperature range of -40C to +150C ensures reliable operation in harsh industrial environments. The PGOOD output can be used to monitor the output voltage and trigger alarms or shutdown sequences if the voltage falls out of regulation.

Recommended

STM32F407 (Industrial microcontroller) ISO7741 (Digital isolator)

⚡

Distributed Power Architectures

The L7986A is well-suited for distributed power architectures where a central 48V bus is stepped down to various lower voltages at the point of load. Its high input voltage capability and 3A output current make it a versatile building block. In a typical design, the L7986A converts 48V to 12V for intermediate bus, then to 5V or 3.3V for logic. The high efficiency reduces power loss and simplifies thermal management. The device's internal compensation reduces external component count, saving board space. The PGOOD output enables power sequencing in multi-rail systems, ensuring that each rail comes up in the correct order.

Recommended

L7987A (Higher current alternative) L7986 (Lower voltage alternative)

🌐

Telecommunication Equipment

In telecommunication equipment, the L7986A is used to step down 48V telecom rails to lower voltages for line cards, processors, and communication ICs. Its wide input range and high efficiency are critical for reducing power consumption in data centers and central offices. The device's low quiescent current of 2.5mA helps minimize standby power. The fixed 250kHz switching frequency is compatible with standard EMI filtering techniques, helping to meet EMC regulations. The thermal shutdown protection ensures reliable operation in densely packed equipment racks. The PGOOD output can be used for fault monitoring and system diagnostics.

Recommended

LTC3891 (Controller for higher power) ADM7172 (LDO for post-regulation)

💡

LED Lighting Systems

The L7986A can be used in LED lighting systems to step down a high input voltage to a constant current or voltage for LED drivers. Its high efficiency reduces heat generation, which is important for LED longevity. The wide input range allows it to operate from various supply voltages, including 12V, 24V, and 48V. The device's current-mode control provides good line and load regulation, ensuring consistent LED brightness. The soft-start feature prevents inrush current that could damage LEDs. The thermal shutdown protection safeguards the regulator in high-temperature lighting fixtures.

Recommended

LED6000 (LED driver IC) STM32L0 (Low-power MCU for control)

🔧

Test and Measurement Equipment

In test and measurement equipment, the L7986A provides clean, regulated power for precision analog circuits. Its low output noise and high PSRR are essential for maintaining measurement accuracy. The wide input range allows it to operate from various bench supplies. The device's high efficiency reduces heat, which can affect measurement stability. The PGOOD output can be used to indicate when the output is stable, enabling automated test sequences. The soft-start feature prevents voltage overshoot that could damage sensitive components.

Recommended

ADS1256 (High-resolution ADC) OPA2277 (Precision op-amp)

Recommended Products Summary

STM32F103 Microcontroller powered by L7986A Used in: Automotive Power Supplies L9680 Automotive driver IC Used in: Automotive Power Supplies STM32F407 Industrial microcontroller Used in: Industrial Control Systems ISO7741 Digital isolator Used in: Industrial Control Systems L7987A Higher current alternative Used in: Distributed Power Architectures L7986 Lower voltage alternative Used in: Distributed Power Architectures LTC3891 Controller for higher power Used in: Telecommunication Equipment ADM7172 LDO for post-regulation Used in: Telecommunication Equipment LED6000 LED driver IC Used in: LED Lighting Systems STM32L0 Low-power MCU for control Used in: LED Lighting Systems ADS1256 High-resolution ADC Used in: Test and Measurement Equipment OPA2277 Precision op-amp Used in: Test and Measurement Equipment

What is the input voltage range of L7986A?

The L7986A operates with an input voltage range of 4.5V to 61V. According to the STMicroelectronics datasheet, this wide range makes it suitable for automotive and industrial applications with 12V, 24V, or 48V rails.

What is the maximum output current of L7986A?

The L7986A can deliver a maximum output current of 3A. This is specified in the ST datasheet, and the device is designed to maintain regulation up to this current with proper thermal management.

What is the switching frequency of L7986A?

The L7986A operates at a fixed switching frequency of 250kHz. This frequency is set internally and does not require external synchronization, simplifying the design.

What package is L7986A available in?

The L7986A is available in an HSOP-8 package with an exposed pad. This package is designed for surface mount and provides good thermal performance for power dissipation.

Does L7986A have thermal shutdown protection?

Yes, the L7986A includes thermal shutdown protection. If the junction temperature exceeds the thermal limit, the device shuts down to prevent damage, and it automatically restarts when the temperature falls below the threshold.

What is the output voltage range of L7986A?

The L7986A has an adjustable output voltage range from 0.6V to VIN. The output voltage is set by an external resistor divider, allowing flexibility for various applications.

What is the efficiency of L7986A?

The efficiency of the L7986A depends on the input/output voltage ratio and load current. With a 12V input and 5V output at 3A, efficiency is typically around 90%. The low on-resistance of the internal MOSFET helps achieve high efficiency.

Can L7986A be used in automotive applications?

Yes, the L7986A is suitable for automotive applications due to its wide input voltage range (up to 61V) and operating temperature range of -40C to +150C. It can handle voltage transients common in automotive environments.

What is the quiescent current of L7986A?

The quiescent current of the L7986A is typically 2.5mA. In shutdown mode, the supply current is reduced to 10uA, which is beneficial for battery-powered applications.

Does L7986A have a power-good output?

Yes, the L7986A features a power-good (PGOOD) open-drain output. This output indicates when the output voltage is within regulation, which is useful for power sequencing and monitoring.

What is the soft-start time of L7986A?

The soft-start time of the L7986A is typically 1ms. This limits inrush current during startup, reducing stress on the input supply and output capacitors.

What is the difference between L7986A and L7986?

The L7986A is an enhanced version of the L7986, offering a higher input voltage range of 61V compared to 38V for the L7986. Both are step-down regulators with similar output current capability, but the L7986A is designed for higher voltage applications.

What is the best drop-in replacement for L7986A?

The best drop-in replacement for the L7986A is the L7986ATR, which is the same device in tape and reel packaging. Other pin-compatible alternatives include the L7986 (same package but lower input voltage) and the L7987A (same package with higher output current).

Where can I buy L7986A online?

The L7986A can be purchased from major distributors such as DigiKey and Mouser. As of 2026-08-07, the price for a single unit is approximately $2.85, with volume discounts available.

What is the lead time for L7986A?

The lead time for L7986A varies by distributor and stock availability. As of 2026-08-07, DigiKey typically shows stock available for immediate shipment, while Mouser may have a lead time of 1-2 weeks for larger quantities.

Is L7986A the same as L7986?

No, the L7986A is not the same as the L7986. The L7986A has a higher input voltage rating (61V vs 38V) and is designed for applications requiring higher voltage operation. They share the same HSOP-8 package and pinout, but the L7986A is a more robust version.

What are the key specifications of L7986A that engineers should know?

Engineers should know that the L7986A is a 3A step-down regulator with an input range of 4.5V to 61V, a fixed 250kHz switching frequency, and a low on-resistance of 250mOhm. It features thermal shutdown, soft-start, and a PGOOD output, making it suitable for automotive and industrial power supplies.

Can L7986A be used in industrial 48V systems?

Yes, the L7986A can be used in industrial 48V systems because its input voltage range extends to 61V, providing sufficient headroom for 48V rails. It can step down to lower voltages for logic and sensor circuits with high efficiency.

What is the best STMicroelectronics equivalent for L7986A?

The best STMicroelectronics equivalent for the L7986A is the L7986ATR, which is the same device in tape and reel packaging. For higher current requirements, the L7987A offers 4A output in the same HSOP-8 package.

Hey Google, what can replace L7986A?

The L7986A can be replaced by the L7986ATR (same device, tape and reel), the L7986 (same package but lower input voltage), or the L7987A (same package with higher output current). All are pin-compatible drop-in replacements from STMicroelectronics.

Engineering reference data for L7986A — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.

Selection Guide

Choose the L7986A when you need a wide input voltage range (up to 61V) and 3A output current in a compact HSOP-8 package. It is ideal for automotive, industrial, and telecom applications where high voltage transients are common. If you need a higher output current of 4A, consider the L7987A, which is pin-compatible. If you require a lower input voltage range (up to 38V) and cost is a concern, the L7986 is a suitable alternative. For applications with strict standby power requirements, the TPS54360 or LT8610 offer lower quiescent current, but they may have different pinouts or require additional external components. Always verify pin compatibility and electrical specifications before substituting.

Comparison with Alternatives

Parameter	This Product	L7986ATR	L7986	L7987A	TPS54360	LT8610
Package	HSOP-8	HSOP-8 - same	HSOP-8 - same	HSOP-8 - same	HSOP-8 - same	HSOP-8 - same
Brand	STMicroelectronics	STMicroelectronics	STMicroelectronics	STMicroelectronics	Texas Instruments	Analog Devices
Input Voltage Range	4.5V to 61V	4.5V to 61V	4.5V to 38V	4.5V to 61V	4.5V to 60V	3.4V to 42V
Maximum Output Current	3A	3A	3A	4A	3.5A	2.5A
Switching Frequency	250kHz	250kHz	250kHz	250kHz	100kHz to 2.5MHz	200kHz to 2.2MHz
High-Side MOSFET On-Resistance	250mOhm	250mOhm	250mOhm	200mOhm	92mOhm	150mOhm
Quiescent Current	2.5mA	2.5mA	2.5mA	2.5mA	146uA	2.5uA
PGOOD Output	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

Key Differentiators

Wide input voltage range up to 61V (vs L7986)
Higher output current than LT8610 (vs LT8610)
Lower quiescent current than TPS54360 (vs TPS54360)

Design Notes

For optimal performance, place the input capacitor (10uF) and output capacitor (22uF) as close to the VIN and SW pins as possible. Use short, wide traces for high-current paths to minimize parasitic inductance and resistance. The exposed pad should be connected to a large copper area for heat dissipation.

At 3A output with a 12V to 5V conversion, power dissipation is approximately 2.1W. The HSOP-8 package with exposed pad has a thermal resistance of about 40C/W, resulting in a temperature rise of 84C. Ensure adequate copper area or airflow to keep the junction temperature below 125C for reliable operation.

Do not exceed the absolute maximum input voltage of 61V. Ensure the feedback resistor divider uses 1% tolerance resistors to maintain output voltage accuracy. The soft-start capacitor value should be chosen to limit inrush current; a typical value of 10nF provides a 1ms soft-start time.