Texas Instruments LM3404HVMA/NOPB

Overview

LM3404HVMA/NOPB from Texas Instruments is a monolithic 1-A constant-current buck regulator IC designed for high-power LED driving in automotive and industrial lighting systems. It integrates a high-side N-channel MOSFET (R_DS(on) = 0.75 Ω typ), operates from 6 V to 75 V input, delivers up to 1.2 A output current, features hysteretic controlled on-time architecture with external R_ON programming, and includes PWM dimming, thermal shutdown, and open-LED protection.

For engineers reviewing the LM3404HVMA/NOPB datasheet, LM3404HVMA/NOPB pinout, LM3404HVMA/NOPB application, or LM3404HVMA/NOPB equivalent, key selection considerations include its 75-V max input rating, 200-mV current-sense threshold, 300-ns minimum off-time limiting maximum duty cycle, SO PowerPAD™-8 package thermal performance (R_θJA = 44.7°C/W), and compatibility with ceramic-only or capacitor-less LED output configurations.

Technical Context

The LM3404HVMA/NOPB implements a controlled-on-time (COT) architecture combining hysteretic current regulation with a voltage-dependent one-shot timer, eliminating need for loop compensation. Its CS pin compares sensed voltage across R_SNS against a precise 200-mV reference to control MOSFET conduction, while R_ON sets nominal on-time inversely proportional to VIN - enabling stable constant-current operation across wide input ranges without frequency drift in CCM.

It integrates a 7-V internal linear regulator (VCC) with UVLO (5.3 V), bypassed by ≥0.1-µF X5R/X7R ceramic, and uses bootstrap gate drive (BOOT–SW) with 10-nF external capacitor for high-side MOSFET control. Protection includes cycle-by-cycle current limit (1.5-A typ), thermal shutdown (165°C), and overvoltage/overcurrent comparator (300-mV CS threshold) for open-LED fault response.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM3404HVMA/NOPB is housed in an SO PowerPAD™-8 package (3.90 mm × 4.89 mm) with exposed thermal pad (DAP) that must be soldered to PCB ground plane using 4–6 thermal vias for optimal thermal performance (R_θJB = 24.5°C/W).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM3404MA/NOPB, the LM3404HVMA/NOPB adds 33-V headroom for automotive reliability; versus MPQ4425HGQ-P, it trades compensation complexity and package size for simpler, more robust capacitor-less implementation in high-input-voltage LED systems.

Availability

LM3404HVMA/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lighting, industrial high-bay fixtures, and outdoor streetlight systems requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceability.

Supply support for LM3404HVMA/NOPB 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader delivering analog, embedded processing, and connectivity solutions with emphasis on reliability, longevity, and automotive-grade qualification.

The LM3404HV product line was engineered specifically for high-voltage constant-current LED driving in harsh environments - targeting automotive front lighting, industrial area illumination, and infrastructure-grade outdoor lighting where input transients and thermal stress are dominant design constraints.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage supported by the LM3404HVMA/NOPB?

The LM3404HVMA/NOPB supports a maximum input voltage of 75 V, as specified in its absolute maximum ratings. This rating enables reliable operation in automotive applications subject to load-dump transients and industrial 48-V DC systems with safety margin. The standard LM3404 variant is limited to 45 V, making the HV version essential for high-input-voltage designs.

How does the LM3404HVMA/NOPB regulate LED current without a feedback loop compensator?

The LM3404HVMA/NOPB uses a controlled-on-time (COT) hysteretic architecture that compares the CS pin voltage against a 200-mV internal reference. When sensed voltage falls below threshold, the internal MOSFET turns on for a VIN- and RON-determined on-time; no external compensation components are needed. This simplifies design and improves transient response compared to traditional voltage-mode controllers.

Can the LM3404HVMA/NOPB operate without an output capacitor?

Yes, the LM3404HVMA/NOPB supports capacitor-less LED output configurations due to its current-regulation topology and inherent stability. The inductor directly controls LED current ripple, eliminating need for output capacitance to maintain regulation. A small 10-nF capacitor across the LED array may be added to dampen switching-node oscillation if EMI is a concern.

What thermal management is required for the LM3404HVMA/NOPB in 1.2-A operation?

At 1.2-A output, the LM3404HVMA/NOPB dissipates ~1.08 W in the MOSFET (based on 0.75-Ω R_DS(on)). Its SO PowerPAD™-8 package requires connection of the DAP thermal pad to a PCB ground plane via 4–6 vias to achieve R_θJB = 24.5°C/W. With 40°C ambient and 25°C rise allowance, ≥1.6 cm² of 2-oz copper is recommended under the DAP for reliable 125°C junction operation.

Does the LM3404HVMA/NOPB provide protection against open-circuit LED failure?

Yes, the LM3404HVMA/NOPB includes dedicated open-LED protection via its CS pin overvoltage comparator, which triggers at 300 mV. During an open-circuit event, CS voltage collapses, causing the controller to enter hiccup mode or clamp output voltage - preventing uncontrolled rise to VO(MAX) and protecting downstream components. External Zener-based clamping can further enhance this protection.