78XX vs 79XX-Difference between 78XX and 79XX voltage regulators

This page compares 78XX voltage regulator vs 79XX voltage regulator and mentions difference between 78XX and 79XX voltage regulators.

78XX voltage regulator

78XX Voltage Regulator

The figure-1 depicts 78XX voltage regulator pin diagram. It is manufactured by Fairchild. Following are the features of this 78XX voltage regulator:
• It is 3 terminal positive voltage regulator.
• Output current: 1 A
• Output voltages: 5/6/8/9/10/12/15/18/24V
• Thermal overload protection
• Short circuit protection
• Output transistor safe operating area protection

79XX voltage regulator

79XX Voltage Regulator

The figure-1 depicts 79XX voltage regulator pin diagram. It is manufactured by National Semiconductor. Following are the features of this 79XX voltage regulator:
• It is 3 terminal negative voltage regulator.
• Fixed output voltages: -5V/-8V/-12V/-15V
• Output current: 1.5 A
• Thermal, short circuit and safe area protection
• High ripple rejection
• This IC allows output voltage to be easily boosted above the preset value with a resistor divider.

Conclusion : In summary, 78xx series is positive voltage regulator where as 79xx series is negative voltage regulator.

Working of 78xx and 79xx voltage regulator circuits

78xx voltage regulator circuit diagram

Refer 78xx vs 79xx voltage regulator circuit >> for working operation of 78xx and 79xx series of voltage regulators.

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