Adafruit 3.3V 800mA Linear Voltage Regulator - LD1117-3.3 TO-220

The LD1117 is your reliable solution for efficiently reducing voltage from 4-15V batteries or adapters to a steady 3.3V with 1% accuracy. Designed in the durable TO-220 package, this regulator offers up to 800mA output with robust internal current limiting and thermal shut-down protection.

With a linear dropout of approximately 1V, it's an excellent choice for converting a 5V power supply to a 3.3V output while conserving space and resources. The device inherently draws a constant current of 5mA, ensuring consistent performance over time.

To ensure optimal function and avoid overheating, implementing suitable heat sinks is crucial, particularly at higher input voltages or output currents. For instance, reducing from 9V at 0.5A requires robust heat dissipation as it generates 2.85 Watts of heat. Conversely, using a 5V power source results in minimal heat generation of only 0.85 Watts, often eliminating the need for additional cooling.

Equipping the LD1117 with at least 10uF electrolytic capacitors on both the input and output ensures stability and peak performance. This makes it a versatile choice for a variety of electronic applications requiring dependable voltage regulation without the hassle of complex setup procedures.