LM317 – What is it? Specifications, diagram, price and reviews

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LM317 is the short name for a linear stabilizer designed for THT through-hole mounting. The LM317 is used to supply circuits with voltages from 1.2 V to 37 V.

LM317 stabilizer - supply voltage range from 1.2 V to 37 V

The LM317 linear stabilizer is an electronic component with three leads in the form of wire feet. It allows the output voltage to range from 1.2 V to 37 V. LM317 is used in various types of electronic circuits that require a stable and regulated voltage for operation.

The linear stabilizer is enclosed in a TO-220 housing that guarantees efficient heat dissipation, allowing the component to operate safely during maximum load. The maximum output current of the LM317 stabilizer is equal to 1.5 A. The universal application, combined with simple assembly and a wide range of output voltage regulation, makes the stabilizer widely used by professionals and hobbyists.

LM317T 1.2-37V stabilizer - THT TO220 - 5pcs.

Examples of applications of the LM317 voltage stabilizer in TO-220 housing

The LM317 linear stabilizer can be used to build a simple and reliable regulated power supply on a prototype board. This type of power supply, due to its relatively high output current and wide regulation range, can be successfully used to provide stable and safe power to various types of electronic projects.

The next application calls for the LM337T chip, which makes it quick and easy to make a regulated power supply with positive and negative output voltages. Such a power supply is ideal for commissioning various types of circuits with operational amplifiers and allows to perform commissioning tests of electronic circuits. Another application of the LM317 linear stabilizer is in chargers designed to replenish energy in various types of batteries.

Advantages and disadvantages of the LM317 stabilizer

Among the most important advantages of power supply systems of this type are the ability to precisely regulate the output voltage and the stability of the voltage, independent of changes in input voltage and load.

The disadvantages, on the other hand, include energy losses in the form of heat, which can lead to the need for an additional heat sink for high load currents. Another disadvantage is the difference between the input and output voltage levels (the so-called drop-out voltage), which can slightly limit the adjustment range.

LM317 stabilizer - additional technical information

The maximum output current of the LM317 stabilizer is 1.5 A. However, it is worth remembering that this value may be limited due to exposure to high temperature. For the safe and stable operation of the stabilizer are responsible for built-in protections that protect not only from overheating, but also from current overload.

LM317 stabilizer - basic housing information

The LM317 stabilizer is enclosed in a TO-220 ( Transistor Outline 220) housing. This is one of the most common types of enclosures used to protect various types of electronic components. It is designed for easy installation and efficient dissipation of excess heat.

The TO-220 housing consists of a metal heat sink, or plate, to which the circuit is attached. The insulation part, on the other hand, is made of plastic. It contains three leads in the form of wire feet. The metal heat sink is not only designed to efficiently dissipate the heat generated by the chip during operation, but is also a structural component of the case.

Features of TO-220 housing

The LM317 stabilizer enclosed in a TO-220 housing is suitable for THT ( Through-Hole Technology) through-hole mounting. It provides quick and easy installation on the surface of a printed circuit board (PCB) or directly on a heat sink. In addition, the TO-220’s structure is designed for efficient heat dissipation, allowing for relatively high load currents.

In addition to LM317 linear voltage regulators, the TO-220 chassis is commonly used in various electronic applications such as motor controllers, power supplies, control systems and many others. The downside of the TO-220 enclosure is its relatively large size, which can make it difficult to install in confined spaces.

Through-hole assembly of LM317 linear stabilizer in TO-220 housing

THT assembly is a basic technique for soldering various types of electronic components with leads (wires), also known as feet. Assembly consists of leading the feet to the other side of the PCB through the holes. On the other side of the board there are solder fields to which leads should be soldered. The solder fields are connected to the conductive paths of the PCB. If necessary, an excessively long lead should be gently cut off.

In industrial applications, THT through-hole assembly has been supplanted by SMD technology, which is much faster. However, amateur projects still use THT assembly, which is easy to learn and perform, even by electronics novices. In addition, it does not require the purchase and use of expensive and difficult to operate equipment. Another advantage of through-hole assembly is the relatively high tolerance for soldering errors (most of which can be quickly and easily repaired).

What else is worth knowing about THT assembly?

A basic flask soldering iron and solder binder (e.g. tin) are required to mount the LM317 linear stabilizer in a TO-220 housing. It is also worth equipping yourself with accessories in the form of a blade cleaner and cutting pliers. After soldering the leads to the solder fields, make sure that the connection is electrically and mechanically correct. The next stages consist of quality control and testing of the completed connections.

THT assembly is still widely used, especially in hobbyist projects and prototypes. In addition, it is ideal for projects where easy servicing is key.

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