The LM323 are three-terminal positive voltage regulators with a preset 5 V output and a load driving capability of 3 A. New circuit design and processing techniques are used to provide the high output current without sacrificing the regulation characteristics of lower current devices. The 3 A regulator is virtually blowout proof. Current limiting, power limiting and thermal shutdown provide high level of reliability. An overall worst case specification for the combined effects of input voltage, load current, ambient temperature, and power dissipation ensure that the LM323 will perform satisfactorily as a system element.