Electronic – What happens to the output voltage of an unloaded linear regulator

datasheetlinear-regulator

I need a linear regulator for a project, for current sense reasons I need to select a regulator that passes its quiescent current into the load.

Most regulators like this have a minimum load current of a few mA. I cant seem to find anything on what happens if this condition is not met though.

Is it simply a case of regulation quality will degrade? Can I assume that since it is a parameter not listed in the absolute maximums that the chip will not be damaged.

We are currently looking at using the LD1086

I.e. if I don't care about tight regulation in no load condition can I safely use the part.

Best Answer

If you don't draw the minimum load current, the output voltage will likely rise out of regulation, which could damage the circuitry that is powered. The regulator itself won't care.

For this reason you should use the worst-case value which appears to be 10mA.