The L78xx series of three-terminal positive regulators is available in TO-220, TO-220FP,
TO-3, D2PAK and DPAK packages and several fixed output voltages, making it useful in a wide
range of applications. These regulators can provide local on-card regulation, eliminating the
distribution problems associated with single point regulation. Each type employs internal current
limiting, thermal shut-down and safe area protection, making it essentially indestructible. If
adequate heat sinking is provided, they can deliver over 1 A output current. Although designed
primarily as fixed voltage regulators, these devices can be used with external components to
obtain adjustable voltage and currents.
The ST Micro L7812CV is a 12 volt positive linear regulator. It has amperage of 1, a 2% tolerance and comes in a TO-220 package.