Low power on-chip load tracking-zero compensation method for low dropout regulator

Abstract

This paper describes a novel frequency compensation method for a low dropout regulator (LDO). The proposed load tracking-zero compensation circuit not only eliminates the need for a bulky external off-chip capacitor that is typically employed in conventional compensation techniques, but also consumes very low additional quiescent current of 7.5μA that makes this method highly suitable for integrated SoC power management applications. It is demonstrated that this compensation technique, designed for the LDO in 130-nm CMOS technology, improves the stability and enhances the load regulation of the low dropout regulator.