How to Connect LM338 IC in Parallel to Increase Output Current

The LM338 is an adjustable 3-terminal positive voltage regulator capable of providing up to 5 amperes of output current. To increase the output current capability, you can connect multiple LM338 ICs in parallel.

When you connect them in parallel, each IC will share the load current, allowing you to achieve higher total current handling capacity.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to connect IC LM338 in parallel:

Note: When working with electronic components and circuits, always follow proper safety precautions. Double-check the datasheet and specifications of the LM338 IC for your specific application.

Materials Needed:

LM338 voltage regulator ICs (as many as needed for your desired current capacity)

Heat sinks for each LM338 IC

Suitable transformer and rectifier circuit to provide input power

Capacitors for input and output filtering (optional but recommended for stability)

Step 1: Heat Sinks

Ensure that each LM338 IC has an appropriate heat sink to dissipate heat effectively. The heat sink's size and thermal characteristics should be selected based on the maximum current and temperature rise requirements of the LM338 IC.

Step 2: Input Power Supply

Use a suitable input power supply to provide the required voltage and current for the all parallel connected LM338 ICs. This will require a transformer to step down the AC voltage, a bridge rectifier circuit to convert AC to DC, and input filter capacitors to smooth output the voltage.

Step 3: Provide Input and Output Capacitors (Optional)

You may add capacitors to the LM338 IC to improve its performance and maintain the power stable.

Connect one capacitor to the input of each LM338 and a second capacitor to the ground pin of the devices.

Connect another capacitor to the output of each LM338 and the ground pin of the devices. Simply select the capacitor sizes that apply to your device and refer to the datasheet for recommendations.

Step 4: Connect the LM338 ICs in Parallel

To connect the LM338 ICs in parallel, follow these steps in accordance with the following circuit diagram:

• Connect the Adjust (ADJ) pins of all the LM338 ICs together.
• Connect the Output (OUT) pins of all the LM338 ICs together.
• Connect the Input (IN) pins of all the LM338 ICs together.
• Connect a 120 ohm or 220 Ohm resistor between the outputs of the all the LM338 and the ADJ pin of all the LM338 ICs.
• Connect a 10 K potentiometer between the ADJ connections of all the LM338 ICs and the common Ground line.

Step 5: Individual Current-Limiting Resistors (Optional)

If you want to balance the load current between the parallel-connected LM338 ICs, you can add small current-limiting resistors in series with the ADJ pins of each IC.

This can help ensure that each IC contributes proportionally to the total output current. The value of the current-limiting resistor can be calculated using Ohm's law based on the desired current-sharing ratio.

Step 6: Mount the LM338 ICs on Heat Sinks

Mount each LM338 IC on its respective heat sink using suitable thermal compound and hardware. Ensure that the heat sinks are properly insulated to avoid any short circuits.

Step 7: Test and Monitor

Before connecting the load, test the parallel connection of LM338 ICs with a low current load and monitor the output voltage and current.

Ensure that the load is within the safe operating limits of each IC and that the output voltage is stable and regulated.

By following these steps, you can connect IC LM338 in parallel to increase the current-handling capability for your application.

Always refer to the LM338 datasheet and application notes for specific guidelines and precautions.