The LT3012 is a high voltage, micropower low dropout linear regulator. The device is capable of supplying 250mA of output current with a dropout voltage of 400mV. Designed for use in battery-powered or high voltage systems, the low quiescent current (40A operating and 1A in shutdown) makes the LT3012 an ideal choice. Quiescent current is also well controlled in dropout. Other features of the LT3012 include the ability to operate with very small output capacitors. The regulator is stable with only 3.3F on the output while most older devices require between 10F and 100F for stability. Small ceramic capacitors can be used without any need for series resistance (ESR) as is common with other regulators. Internal protection circuitry includes reverse-battery protection, current limiting, thermal limiting and reverse current protection.