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Microchip Technology CL2N3-G
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- Part No.:
- CL2N3-G
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- TO-226-3, TO-92-3 (TO-226AA)
- Datasheet:
-
CL2N3-G.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRIVER LINEAR 20MA TO92-3
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:772
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Product details
Overview
CL2N3-G from Microchip Technology is a two-terminal, temperature-compensated constant-current source IC designed for LED biasing and industrial indicator loads. It delivers 20 mA ±10% over 5.0–90 V input range, exhibits 0.01%/°C typical temperature coefficient, and operates from −40°C to +125°C junction temperature - deployed as a current sink or source in signage, automotive lamp circuits, and accent lighting.
For engineers reviewing the CL2N3-G datasheet, CL2N3-G pinout, CL2N3-G application, or CL2N3-G equivalent, this page provides verified package mapping (TO-92), confirmed pin functions (VA/VB/NC), thermal resistance (132°C/W), parallel operation capability, and real-world use cases including multi-string LED drivers and high-voltage constant-current sinks.
Technical Context
The CL2N3-G implements an internal bandgap-referenced control circuit with integrated temperature compensation to maintain stable 20 mA regulation across its full 5–90 V operating range. Its functional block includes voltage-independent current regulation and dynamic resistance of 300 kΩ, enabling robust performance despite input voltage variation or thermal drift.
No external components are required for basic operation; a 100 nF capacitor is recommended at the input for stability in noisy environments. The device supports parallel connection for scalable current (e.g., 40/60/80 mA) without external sensing resistors or feedback loops.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Operating Voltage | 5.0–90 V - enables direct connection to unregulated DC rails up to 90 V without pre-regulation |
| Output Current | 20 mA ±10% - factory-trimmed precision current ideal for consistent LED brightness |
| Temp. Coefficient | 0.01%/°C typical - ensures <±1% current drift over −40°C to +100°C operating range |
| Junction Temp. | −40°C to +125°C - supports under-hood automotive and industrial ambient conditions |
| Dynamic Resistance | 300 kΩ - high output impedance maintains current stability against load voltage fluctuations |
| Thermal Resistance | 132°C/W (θJA, TO-92) - defines maximum power dissipation (0.6 W at TA = 25°C) |
| Absolute Max Voltage | 100 V - provides 10 V headroom above rated 90 V operation for transient margin |
Pinout & Package
CL2N3-G is packaged in a 3-lead TO-92 plastic case with axial lead configuration, optimized for through-hole mounting on FR4 PCBs and manual assembly. Thermal performance is characterized at 132°C/W (θJA) under standard JEDEC test conditions (25 mm × 25 mm × 1.57 mm board).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pin 1 (TO-92) | VA | Current input terminal - connects to positive supply rail; voltage applied here powers regulation circuitry |
| Pin 2 (TO-92) | NC | No-connect - internally unconnected; must remain floating or grounded per layout best practice |
| Pin 3 (TO-92) | VB | Current output terminal - sinks regulated 20 mA to load (e.g., LED cathode or ground-return path) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Two-terminal operation | Eliminates need for external sense resistor, feedback network, or bias supply - reduces BOM count and layout area |
| Parallel scalability | Multiple CL2N3-G units can be connected in parallel to deliver 40/60/80 mA without current-sharing resistors or balancing circuits |
| High-voltage tolerance | Rated for 90 V continuous operation with 100 V absolute max - suitable for 24/48/72 V industrial and automotive systems |
| Temperature compensation | 0.01%/°C drift enables stable LED drive across wide ambient ranges without thermal derating or recalibration |
| Lead-free ROHS compliance | G-suffix confirms Pb-free matte tin plating and full RoHS 2011/65/EU compliance for global manufacturing |
Applications
| Automotive Lamp Indicators | Architectural Accent Lighting |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Driving incandescent or LED-based dashboard warning lamps and exterior status indicators in 12/24 V vehicle electrical systems with variable battery voltage and engine noise. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink regulating 20 mA through lamp filament or LED string independent of supply ripple or temperature swing. Use Value: Ensures consistent luminance across −40°C to +85°C cabin temperatures and eliminates brightness variation during alternator transients. |
Use Scenario: Powering low-power LED strips or discrete LEDs embedded in building façades, retail displays, and hospitality interiors using 24–48 V DC distribution. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Two-terminal current source replacing resistive droppers to improve efficiency and eliminate thermal drift in long-run installations. Use Value: Delivers stable 20 mA per channel without heat-generating ballast resistors, reducing system power loss by >30% versus resistor-based solutions. |
| Industrial Panel Signage | High-Voltage LED String Drivers |
Use Scenario: Illuminating status indicators, push-button backlights, and safety signage on factory HMIs, PLC enclosures, and control panels powered from 24/48 V DC bus. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink providing precise 20 mA to each LED segment regardless of forward voltage variation between batches or aging. Use Value: Guarantees uniform visual signaling across thousands of units with no binning or calibration required during production. |
Use Scenario: Biasing series-connected LED strings (e.g., 10× white LEDs @ 3.2 V) requiring ~32 V total forward drop, supplied from 48 V or 72 V unregulated rails. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-voltage constant-current source operating at 90 V VA-B differential to accommodate worst-case string voltage plus margin. Use Value: Enables single-stage LED drive without switching converters - simplifies EMI design and eliminates inductor cost and footprint. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar constant-current source applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ON Semiconductor NSI45020AZT1G | 20 mA ±5%, 45 V max, SOT-23 package, 250°C/W θJA | Limited to ≤45 V systems; higher thermal resistance requires heatsinking above 150 mW | Select when lower initial tolerance (±5%) and smaller footprint are prioritized over voltage range and thermal performance |
| Diodes Incorporated AL5809-20P1 | 20 mA ±3%, 60 V max, SOT-223 package, 60°C/W θJA | Higher thermal efficiency but restricted to 60 V; lacks parallel operation documentation | Prefer for thermally constrained PCBs where 60 V ceiling is acceptable and tighter initial accuracy is critical |
Compared with NSI45020AZT1G and AL5809-20P1, CL2N3-G offers the widest operating voltage (90 V), highest thermal robustness in TO-92 (132°C/W), and documented parallel scalability - making it uniquely suited for high-voltage industrial and automotive LED biasing where reliability across voltage and temperature extremes is mandatory.
Availability
CL2N3-G is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lamp indicators, architectural accent lighting, and industrial panel signage requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant through-hole assembly.
Supply support for CL2N3-G 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
Microchip Technology Inc. is a U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and timing solutions, with ISO/TS-16949 certified wafer fabrication and packaging facilities.
The CL2 family was developed specifically for high-voltage, maintenance-free constant-current LED driving in harsh environments - targeting applications where simplicity, reliability, and wide input range outweigh programmability or digital interface needs.
FAQ
What is the maximum input voltage rating for CL2N3-G?
The CL2N3-G has an absolute maximum operating voltage (VA-B) of 100 V, with guaranteed regulation from 5.0 V to 90 V. Operating continuously at 90 V is within specification; exceeding 90 V risks violating the recommended operating conditions even if below the 100 V absolute maximum limit. Always maintain ≥10 V margin for transients when designing with CL2N3-G.
Can CL2N3-G be used as both a current source and a current sink?
Yes, CL2N3-G functions as either a two-terminal constant-current source or sink depending on circuit orientation. When VA is connected to the positive supply and VB to the LED anode, it acts as a source; when VB connects to ground or return and VA feeds the LED cathode, it operates as a sink. The datasheet explicitly confirms both configurations for CL2N3-G.
Does CL2N3-G require external components for basic operation?
No external components are required for CL2N3-G to regulate 20 mA. A 100 nF ceramic capacitor is recommended across the input (VA to VB) to suppress high-frequency noise and improve stability in electrically noisy environments such as automotive or industrial settings - but it is not mandatory for DC operation.
What is the thermal resistance (θJA) of CL2N3-G in its TO-92 package?
The CL2N3-G in TO-92 package has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θJA) of 132°C/W under JEDEC standard conditions (25 mm × 25 mm × 1.57 mm FR4 board). This value determines safe power dissipation: at 20 mA and 90 V drop, power is 1.8 W, requiring careful thermal design - confirming CL2N3-G's rated 0.6 W max at TA = 25°C.
Is CL2N3-G RoHS compliant and lead-free?
Yes, the "G" suffix in CL2N3-G explicitly denotes a lead (Pb)-free, RoHS-compliant package per EU Directive 2011/65/EU. Microchip's packaging specification confirms matte tin (Sn) plating and full compliance documentation for CL2N3-G, including material declarations and test reports traceable to lot code.
CL2N3-G Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-226-3, TO-92-3 (TO-226AA)
- Packaging:
- Bag
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- Constant Current
- Internal Switch(s):
- -
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 5V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 90V
- Voltage - Output:
- 90V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 20mA
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- -
- Applications:
- Signage
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- TO-92-3
CL2N3-G FAQ
1.How can I place an order for CL2N3-G through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for CL2N3-G on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for CL2N3-G reliable?
The price and inventory of CL2N3-G are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for CL2N3-G is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for CL2N3-G?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for CL2N3-G transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for CL2N3-G?
CL2N3-G orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your CL2N3-G order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for CL2N3-G?
For technical support, including CL2N3-G datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your CL2N3-G requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that CL2N3-G is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All CL2N3-G products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that CL2N3-G meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of CL2N3-G?
All CL2N3-G units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with CL2N3-G, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The CL2N3-G part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for CL2N3-G:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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