A low-dropout regulator is provided. The low-dropout regulator includes a
p-type depletion transistor as a pass device. The low-dropout regulator
further includes switch circuitry and a charge pump that provides, at its
output, a voltage greater than VDD. The source of the p-type depletion
transistor is coupled to VDD. Under normal operating conditions, the bulk
of the p-type depletion transistor is coupled to the source of the p-type
depletion transistor. However, if the voltage at the gate of the p-type
depletion transistor gets close to VDD, the switch circuitry causes the
bulk of the p-type transistor to be coupled to the output of the charge
pump instead.