The LM2596-5.0V is the fixed 5V output version of Texas Instruments' LM2596 Simple Switcher® series - a 150kHz step-down (buck) regulator delivering 3A at 5V with up to 90% efficiency. It accepts an input voltage range of 7V to 40V (5V + dropout margin), requires only 4 external components (inductor, Schottky diode, input/output capacitors), and needs no feedback resistors - the 5V output is internally set with ±4% accuracy. The integrated 150kHz oscillator is factory-trimmed, eliminating the need for external frequency-setting components. In the surface-mount TO-263 (D²PAK) package, it occupies minimal PCB space while maintaining excellent thermal performance via the exposed metal tab. Ideal for USB power, 5V logic rails, and general-purpose step-down from 12V/24V buses. ICMASS stocks the LM2596-5.0V with pricing starting at $0.42/unit (1K quantity).

What Are the Technical Specifications of LM2596-5.0V?

What Are the Alternatives to LM2596-5.0V?

How Much Does LM2596-5.0V Cost and Is It in Stock?

Last updated: 2026-06-08 | Warehouse: Shenzhen

What Are the Typical Applications of LM2596-5.0V?

• USB Power Hubs: Clean 5V/3A from any 12V or 24V input - ideal for multi-port USB chargers, car USB adapters, and industrial USB power supplies.
• 5V Logic Rail from 12V/24V Bus: Industrial control systems, PLCs, and automation equipment typically run on a 24V bus. The LM2596-5.0V efficiently steps down to 5V.
• Car/Vehicle USB Charger: 12V automotive input to 5V/3A for device charging. The -40°C to +125°C range covers automotive environment requirements.
• Point-of-Load Regulation: 12V bus to 5V local rail on PCBs where a linear regulator would dissipate 21W of heat.
• SBC and Linux Board Power: Provides 5V/3A from a range of input sources for single-board computers and 3D printer controllers.

Why Buy LM2596-5.0V from ICMASS?

• Genuine TI parts with verification: Every LM2596-5.0V is tested for switching frequency, output voltage accuracy at 3A, and thermal shutdown threshold.
• Both package options in stock: TO-263 (surface mount) and TO-220 (through-hole) available for design flexibility.
• Cross-reference support: Need higher frequency? We can recommend MP1584 (1.5MHz, smaller inductor). Need higher current? XL4015 (5A).
• Fast dispatch: Shenzhen warehouse ships within 1-3 business days. Express delivery to NA, EU, ME, SEA.

Frequently Asked Questions About LM2596-5.0V

Q1: What is the minimum input voltage for LM2596-5.0V?
A: The minimum operating input is 7V (5V output + ~2V dropout for the internal regulator). Below 7V, the IC may not start or regulate properly.

Q2: Does LM2596-5.0V need feedback resistors?
A: No. The 5.0V version has an internal resistor divider laser-trimmed for 5V output. Only the adjustable version (LM2596S-ADJ) needs external resistors.

Q3: What inductor size does LM2596-5.0V need for 12V→5V?
A: For 12V input, 5V output at 3A: a 33µH inductor with saturation current ≥4.5A. For 24V→5V: 47µH.

Q4: What's the difference between LM2596-5.0V and LM2596T-5.0?
A: Package difference only. LM2596-5.0V = TO-263 (D²PAK, surface mount). LM2596T-5.0 = TO-220-5 (through-hole).

Q5: What Schottky diode is recommended?
A: A 3A/40V Schottky - 1N5822 (through-hole), SS34 (SMC), or MBR340 (axial). Do NOT use 1N4007 - its slow recovery will cause excessive switching losses.

Q6: How efficient is LM2596-5.0V at light loads?
A: At 3A: ~88% with 12V input. At 100mA: drops to ~60–70%. For applications with long light-load periods, consider a PFM-mode regulator like MP1584.

Q7: Can LM2596-5.0V power a Raspberry Pi?
A: Yes. The LM2596-5.0V provides 5V at up to 3A - sufficient for most single-board computers.

Q8: Is LM2596-5.0V pin-compatible with LM2596S-ADJ?
A: Yes, they share the same TO-263-5 pinout. Drop-in compatible at the PCB level.

Q9: Does LM2596-5.0V require a minimum load?
A: No minimum load required for regulation. At no-load, output ripple may be higher (~30mVpp).

Q10: What is the startup behavior?
A: The LM2596 has internal soft-start - no external capacitor needed. Output voltage ramps up over approximately 100µs.

Q11: Can LM2596-5.0V be used in parallel for more current?
A: Not directly. For >3A, use a single higher-current regulator like LM2678 (5A).

Q12: What is the output ripple voltage?
A: Typical output ripple is 15–30mVpp at 3A load with recommended components.

Q13: Does LM2596-5.0V have enable/shutdown control?
A: The standard LM2596-5.0V does not have an enable pin. For shutdown capability, use the adjustable version.

Q14: What is the thermal performance in TO-263?
A: θ_JC ≈ 3°C/W, θ_JA ≈ 35°C/W with moderate copper. At 12V→5V, 3A (4W dissipation), a heatsink or forced air is needed.

Q15: Is LM2596-5.0V suitable for 24V industrial applications?
A: Yes. The 40V input range covers 24V industrial buses including transients. The -40°C to +125°C range meets industrial requirements.

Internal Links

• LM2596S-ADJ Product Page - Adjustable version
• LM317T Product Page - Linear adjustable alternative
• LDO vs DC-DC vs Adjustable Comparison - Power regulator selection guide