Is there a pin-compatible replacement for ME6231C18M5G?

Several LDOs like LP3987H-18B5F and RT9013-18GB-MS use the same SOT23-5 package and a common pinout. However, they are not electrically equivalent due to a significantly lower input voltage rating, so they are not drop-in replacements.

What risks should I check before replacing ME6231C18M5G?

The main risk is exceeding the maximum input voltage rating of alternatives, which is typically 5.5V-6V, far below the ME6231C18M5G's 18V. This can cause immediate device failure. Always verify your system's Vin against the candidate's datasheet.

ME6231C18M5G Alternatives, Datasheet & Cross Reference | MICRONE

ME6231C18M5G is a high-performance 1.8V, 500mA LDO regulator with a wide 3V to 18V input range. Finding a direct replacement requires careful matching of this wide input voltage, which is a key feature.

AI replacement insight

Electrical riskhigh

Candidate max input voltage is ~6V, while target is 18V. Overvoltage will cause failure.

Package risklow

Package and likely pinout are standard for this function, but verification is still needed.

Can it be replaced directly?

No direct, fully-compatible replacement was found. All candidates have a significantly lower maximum input voltage, limiting their use to applications where Vin is below 6V.

Best replacement path

Filter for LDOs with Vin_max ≥ 18V, Vout=1.8V, Iout ≥ 500mA in a SOT23-5 package. The wide input range is the most critical parameter to match.

Main risk

Exceeding the candidate's maximum input voltage rating (typically ~6V), which is much lower than the original part's 18V.

Recommended alternatives

A functional alternative with excellent PSRR, but only for systems where input voltage is under 5.5V.

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Alternative comparison matrix

Feature / factor	ME6231C18M5G	ETA5055V180DS2F	LP3987H-18B5F	Compatibility / risk
Package	SOT23-5	SOT23-5	SOT23-5	SOT23-5 — Package matches, pinout is likely compatible but requires verification.; LP3987H-18B5F: Package matches, pinout is likely compatible but requires verification.
Voltage	3.0V - 18V	1.8V - 5.5V	1.8V	1.8V - 5.5V — Candidate has a much narrower input voltage range.; LP3987H-18B5F: Fixed output voltage matches.
Current	0.5A	0.5A	0.6A	0.5A / 0.6A — Output current capability matches.; LP3987H-18B5F: Higher output current capability.
Psrr	65dB	102dB	-	102dB — Significantly better power supply rejection ratio.

Application & sourcing insights

Questions & answers

While no direct drop-in replacement has been identified, parts like LP3987H-18B5F offer similar output characteristics but with a much lower maximum input voltage (6V vs 18V). They are only suitable for low-voltage applications.