The LM2673 series of regulators are monolithic integrated circuits which provide all of the active functions for a step-down (buck) switching regulator capable of driving up to 3A loads with excellent line and load regulation characteristics. High efficiency ( > 90%) is obtained through the use of a low ON-resistance DMOS power switch. The series consists of fixed output voltages of 3.3V, 5V and 12V and an adjustable output version. The SIMPLE SWITCHER concept provides for a complete design using a minimum number of external components. A high fixed frequency oscillator (260KHz) allows the use of physically smaller sized components. A family of standard inductors for use with the LM2673 are available from several manufacturers to greatly simplify the design process. Other features include the ability to reduce the input surge current at power-ON by adding a softstart timing capacitor to gradually turn on the regulator. The LM2673 series also has built in thermal shutdown and resistor programmable current limit of the power MOSFET switch to protect the device and load circuitry under fault conditions. The output voltage is guaranteed to a 2% tolerance. The clock frequency is controlled to within a 11% tolerance.