Infineon Technologies BCR401RE6327HTSA1

Overview

BCR401RE6327HTSA1 from Infineon Technologies is a constant-current linear LED driver in SOT143R package, delivering 10 mA nominal output with external resistor adjustment up to 60 mA, 1.2 V minimum supply overhead, ±10% current accuracy at 25°C, and -0.3%/K negative thermal coefficient for LED lifetime protection. It targets low-power signage, decorative lighting, and appliance illumination.

For engineers reviewing the BCR401RE6327HTSA1 datasheet, BCR401RE6327HTSA1 pinout, BCR401RE6327HTSA1 application, or BCR401RE6327HTSA1 equivalent, key selection factors include its fixed-internal-resistor architecture (79 Ω typ), 18 V max supply voltage, GND-referenced dimming capability via external transistor, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive-adjacent lighting systems.

Technical Context

The BCR401RE6327HTSA1 implements a monolithic bipolar constant-current source with integrated reference resistor (R_int = 79 Ω typ) and temperature-compensated current regulation. Its output current is set by external R_ext connected between I_OUT and GND, enabling precise 10–60 mA tuning while maintaining <2% variation over 10–18 V supply range.

It operates as a two-terminal current sink with VS and I_OUT pins sourcing current through the LED string, while GND and R_ext terminals establish the feedback path. The device exhibits inherent thermal foldback (−0.3%/K) and requires no external capacitors, eliminating EMI concerns typical of switching drivers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT143R is a 4-pin plastic surface-mount package with gull-wing leads, 0.95 mm pitch, and exposed die pad for thermal conduction. Pin 1 marked by reverse bar; pin 1 = GND, pin 2 = I_OUT, pin 3 = V_S, pin 4 = R_ext.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar constant-current LED driver applications.

Compared with BCR401RE6327HTSA1, the BCR402R offers channel integration at the expense of higher supply current, while the NSIC2020BT1G trades adjustability and thermal protection for minimal size and lower unit cost in fixed-brightness systems.

Availability

BCR401RE6327HTSA1 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for channel letter signage, aircraft interior lighting, and refrigerator illumination requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q101 compliance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for BCR401RE6327HTSA1 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Infineon Technologies AG is a German semiconductor manufacturer specializing in power management, automotive electronics, and industrial control ICs, with global manufacturing and quality certification infrastructure.

The BCR401R belongs to Infineon's low-cost LED driver product line, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, thermally robust constant-current LED biasing in non-switching lighting applications.

FAQ

Can the BCR401RE6327HTSA1 drive multiple LEDs in series?

Yes - it can drive series-connected LEDs as long as the total forward voltage remains ≤16 V and the supply voltage exceeds the sum of LED V_F plus 1.2 V overhead. For example, five 3.2 V white LEDs (16 V total) require ≥17.2 V supply. The device regulates current regardless of V_F variation across the string.

How is dimming implemented with this driver?

Dimming is achieved by inserting an NPN transistor or MOSFET between the R_ext pin and GND, then applying PWM or analog voltage to the transistor's base/gate. This modulates the feedback path, proportionally reducing output current without disrupting regulation stability or introducing switching noise.

What is the maximum allowable PCB temperature at the solder point?

The maximum permissible solder point temperature is defined by the thermal resistance R_thJS = 225 K/W and maximum junction temperature T_J = 150°C. At 60 mA output and 12 V supply, power dissipation is ~0.25 W; thus, solder point temperature must stay ≤75°C to maintain safe junction margin under continuous operation.

Does the BCR401RE6327HTSA1 require input or output capacitors?

No - the device is internally compensated and operates stably without input or output capacitors. Adding bulk capacitance on V_S is optional for ripple suppression but unnecessary for regulation stability. No capacitor is needed at I_OUT or R_ext terminals.