Although the device’s maximum operating voltage is limited, (18V for a
2.85V device, 20V for a 5V device, and 25V for adjustable and12V devices) the
devices are guaranteed to withstand transient input voltages up to 30V. For
input voltages greater than the maximum operating input voltage some
degradation of specifications will occur. For fixed voltage devices operating at
input/output voltage differentials greater than 15V, a minimum external load
of 5mA is required to maintain regulation.