The UC1835/6 families of linear controllers are optimized for the design of low cost, low dropout, linear regulators. Using an external pass element, dropout voltages of less than 0.5V are readily obtained. These devices contain a high gain error amplifier, a 250mA output driver, and a precision reference. In addition, current sense with foldback provides for a 2.5A peak output current dropping to less than 0.5A at short circuit.