12V Negative Voltage Regulator
Learn how a 12V negative voltage regulator works. Circuit, applications, pinout, and FAQ included. Ideal for power supply stabilization in electronics projects.

negative voltage converter
To assure a stable 12V output, the 12V Negative Voltage Regulator circuit is important to the analog and audio electronics. It also protects devices against variations in voltage and provides stable operations. This tutorial and design guide you through how to design, compute, and test a very simple 12V regulator circuit utilizing elements such as the LM7912, capacitors, and an appropriate transformer or DC power supply.
Formula & Table Summary:
- Output Voltage (Vout) = -12V (regulated by LM7912)
- Input Voltage (Vin) = -14V to -30V DC
- Capacitor Input: 0.33μF (recommended at regulator input)
- Capacitor Output: 0.1μF (recommended at regulator output)
- Max Output Current: ~1A (with proper heat sink)
12v negative voltage regulator
To obtain a stable 12V DC signal out of a higher negative DC supply, a 12V Negative Voltage Regulator may work with ICs, such as LM7912. These regulators are critical in applications where two polarity power supplies are critical, like in an operational amplifier application. Input fluctuations and different load currents can make the output stable; due to this, sensitive components are protected against voltage destruction by the regulator.
7912 voltage regulator circuit
| Parameter | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Input Voltage | -18 | V |
| Output Voltage | -12 | V |
| Output Current | 0.5 | A |
| Ripple Voltage | 50 | mV |
Frequently Asked Questions - 12V Negative Voltage Regulator:
What is a 12V negative voltage regulator?
It regulates output to a constant -12V from a negative input voltage.
Which IC is used for -12V regulation?
The 7912 voltage regulator IC is commonly used.
What is the difference between 7812 and 7912?
7812 provides +12V output; 7912 gives -12V output.
Can I use 7912 with a 12V battery?
No, it requires a negative input voltage around -15V to output -12V.
Where is 7912 used?
Used in op-amp circuits, dual power supplies, and analog designs.
What are the pinouts of 7912?
Pin 1: Ground, Pin 2: Input, Pin 3: Output.
Is a heat sink needed for 7912?
Yes, under high current loads to prevent overheating.
Can I connect 7912 with 7812 for dual supply?
Yes, they provide symmetrical +12V and -12V.
What is the dropout voltage of 7912?
Typically around 2V, input should be at least -14V.
Is the 7912 a linear regulator?
Yes, it's a linear regulator with fixed negative output.
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