Texas Instruments LM3404MA/NOPB
- Part No.:
- LM3404MA/NOPB
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
LM3404MA/NOPB.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRIVER RGLTR PWM 1A 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,035
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Product details
Overview
LM3404MA/NOPB from Texas Instruments is a monolithic 1-A constant-current buck regulator IC designed for driving high-power LED arrays in automotive and industrial lighting systems. It integrates a high-side N-channel MOSFET (RDS(on) = 0.75 Ω typ), operates from 6 V to 42 V input, delivers up to 1.2 A output current, features hysteretic controlled on-time architecture with external RON programming, and includes PWM dimming and thermal shutdown protection.
For engineers reviewing the LM3404MA/NOPB datasheet, LM3404MA/NOPB pinout, LM3404MA/NOPB application, or LM3404MA/NOPB equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated pin functions, application-specific implementation insights, and confirmed alternative options for LED driver selection.
Technical Context
The LM3404MA/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 RSNS against a precise 200-mV reference to control MOSFET conduction, while RON sets tON inversely proportional to VIN (e.g., 2.75 µs at 10 V, 675 ns at 40 V).
It integrates a self-biased 7-V linear regulator (VCC) with UVLO (5.3 V threshold), supports ceramic-only or capacitor-less outputs, and uses bootstrap gate drive (via BOOT–SW 10-nF capacitor) to enable high-side N-MOSFET switching. Thermal shutdown activates at 165°C (25°C hysteresis), and cycle-by-cycle current limiting engages at 1.5-A typical peak.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VIN Range | 6 V to 42 V - supports 12 V/24 V automotive and industrial DC supplies without pre-regulation. |
| Output Current | 1.2 A continuous - sufficient for single-string high-power LEDs (e.g., 3–10 white LEDs @ 350 mA–1 A). |
| CS Reference | 200 mV ±3 mV - enables accurate current setting with low-value, high-precision sense resistors (e.g., 0.2 Ω for 1 A). |
| RDS(on) | 0.75 Ω max - limits conduction loss to ≤0.9 W at 1.2 A, reducing thermal load on SOIC-8 package. |
| Switching Frequency | Programmable via RON - adjusts tON from 3.4 µs (low VIN) to 515 ns (high VIN), enabling 100 kHz–1 MHz operation. |
| Thermal Shutdown | 165°C with 25°C hysteresis - protects IC during overload or poor heatsinking; resumes operation after cooldown. |
| PWM Dimming | TTL-compatible DIM input (VIH = 2.2 V, VIL = 0.8 V) - allows direct microcontroller interface without level-shifting. |
Pinout & Package
LM3404MA/NOPB is housed in an SOIC-8 package (3.91 mm × 4.90 mm) with exposed PowerPAD (DAP) for enhanced thermal dissipation. The DAP must be soldered to PCB ground plane using 4–6 thermal vias.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| SW | Switch node | Connects to inductor and Schottky diode cathode; carries high di/dt switching current - requires tight layout and Kelvin sensing. |
| BOOT | Bootstrap supply | Drives high-side MOSFET gate; requires 10-nF ceramic capacitor to SW - critical for reliable gate turn-on above VIN. |
| DIM | PWM dimming input | TTL-level logic control; 75-µA internal pullup ensures default ON state - eliminates external pullup resistor. |
| GND | Power and signal ground | Reference for CS, RON, DIM; connects to DAP - must be low-impedance star point near power components. |
| CS | Current sense feedback | Monitors voltage across RSNS; 200-mV threshold sets LED current - sensitive node requiring short, shielded trace. |
| RON | On-time control | Resistor from RON to VIN programs tON; determines switching frequency and max duty cycle - sets minimum off-time limit (300 ns). |
| VCC | Internal bias supply | 7-V regulated output powers internal circuitry; bypass with 0.1-µF X5R/X7R capacitor - stabilizes startup and gate drive. |
| VIN | Main input supply | Accepts 6–42 V DC; powers VCC regulator and switch - requires ≥10-µF bulk capacitance with low ESR. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| No control loop compensation required | Hysteretic COT architecture eliminates external compensation network - reduces BOM count and layout sensitivity. |
| Supports capacitor-less outputs | Direct inductor-to-LED connection enabled by continuous conduction mode - cuts cost and size in space-constrained lighting modules. |
| Integrated 1-A MOSFET | Reduces external component count and PCB area - eliminates need for discrete high-side switch and driver IC. |
| Separate PWM dimming and shutdown | DIM pin controls brightness; RON pin enables low-power shutdown (IIN = 95 µA) - allows independent brightness and system power control. |
| Built-in open-LED protection | OVP/OCP comparator disables MOSFET if CS > 300 mV - prevents runaway output voltage during LED string breakage. |
Applications
| Automotive Headlamp Driver | Industrial High-Bay Lighting |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Constant-current driver for 4–8 series white LEDs in 12 V/24 V vehicle headlamp modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Buck regulator IC providing regulated 700 mA–1 A output with PWM dimming for adaptive driving beams. Use Value: Enables compact, thermally robust design meeting AEC-Q100 ambient temperature requirements (–40°C to +125°C junction). | Use Scenario: LED driver for 100–200 W high-bay luminaires in warehouses and factories powered from 24–48 V DC distribution rails. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary current controller delivering stable 1 A output across wide input range with thermal foldback at elevated ambient. Use Value: Eliminates need for isolated AC/DC front-end - simplifies system architecture and improves efficiency over linear solutions. |
| Commercial Streetlight Module | UV-C Disinfection System |
Use Scenario: Outdoor-rated LED driver for smart streetlights using 12–24 series LEDs, operating from 36–57 V SELV supplies. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Hysteretic buck controller maintaining ±3% current accuracy over line/load/temperature - critical for consistent lumen output. Use Value: Supports programmable tON via RON to optimize EMI profile for EN55015 compliance without filter redesign. | Use Scenario: Precision current source for pulsed UV-C LED arrays (265–280 nm) used in surface disinfection equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-response current regulator enabling microsecond-scale PWM dimming for dose-controlled irradiation cycles. Use Value: TTL-compatible DIM input and <300 ns MOSFET turn-off delay ensure accurate pulse-width fidelity for germicidal efficacy validation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar constant-current LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM3404HVMA/NOPB | Wider VIN range (6–75 V); identical pinout, package, and functional architecture. | Suitable for 48 V telecom or 60 V industrial bus systems where LM3404MA/NOPB's 42 V max is insufficient. | Select LM3404HVMA/NOPB only when input exceeds 42 V - otherwise LM3404MA/NOPB offers better cost and thermal performance at lower VIN. |
| MPQ4425AGU-AEC1-P | Pin-compatible 1.2 A buck LED driver (Monolithic Power Systems); AEC-Q100 qualified; integrated current sense amplifier. | Offers higher integration (no external CS resistor needed) and automotive qualification - but requires different compensation and layout. | Choose MPQ4425AGU-AEC1-P for new automotive designs requiring AEC-Q100 certification; LM3404MA/NOPB remains optimal for cost-sensitive industrial lighting. |
Compared with LM3404HVMA/NOPB, the LM3404MA/NOPB trades input voltage headroom for lower thermal resistance and reduced BOM cost at ≤42 V inputs; versus MPQ4425AGU-AEC1-P, it offers simpler layout and proven field reliability in non-automotive applications but lacks integrated current sensing and automotive qualification.
Availability
LM3404MA/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive headlamps, industrial high-bay fixtures, commercial streetlights, and UV-C disinfection systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for LM3404MA/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 specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management technologies, with decades of expertise in LED driver innovation and automotive-grade IC design.
The LM3404MA/NOPB belongs to TI's high-reliability LED driver product line, engineered specifically for constant-current regulation in harsh-environment lighting applications where thermal stability, dimming fidelity, and failure-mode safety are critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum input voltage supported by the LM3404MA/NOPB?
The LM3404MA/NOPB supports a maximum input voltage of 42 V, as specified in its Recommended Operating Conditions. This rating is distinct from the LM3404HV variant (75 V max). Exceeding 42 V may trigger absolute maximum stress conditions and cause permanent damage. Always maintain ≥3 V margin below 45 V absolute maximum rating per datasheet Section 6.1.
Does the LM3404MA/NOPB require external compensation components?
No, the LM3404MA/NOPB does not require external compensation components. Its Controlled On-Time (COT) hysteretic architecture inherently stabilizes the control loop without needing external RC networks. This simplifies design, reduces bill-of-materials cost, and improves immunity to layout parasitics - a key advantage confirmed in Section 7.1 and Feature List of the official datasheet.
How is LED current set on the LM3404MA/NOPB?
LED current is set by the voltage drop across an external sense resistor (RSNS) connected between the CS pin and GND. The LM3404MA/NOPB regulates this voltage to 200 mV (±3 mV), so current equals 0.2 V ÷ RSNS. For example, a 0.2 Ω resistor sets 1 A output. This method is explicitly defined in Section 6.5 (Electrical Characteristics) and Figure 17 of the LM3404MA/NOPB datasheet.
Can the LM3404MA/NOPB operate without an output capacitor?
Yes, the LM3404MA/NOPB supports capacitor-less operation - a documented capability in Section 8.1.3 and Feature List. Because it regulates LED current (not voltage), the inductor and LED form a direct series path. However, a small 10-nF capacitor across the LED array is recommended to dampen ringing during open-circuit transients, as noted in Section 7.3.9.
What thermal management is required for the LM3404MA/NOPB in 1-A operation?
At 1-A output and 24-V input, the LM3404MA/NOPB dissipates ~0.75 W in the MOSFET (based on RDS(on) = 0.75 Ω). With SOIC-8 RθJA = 106.8°C/W, junction rise would exceed 125°C without heatsinking. TI specifies mandatory use of the exposed PowerPAD (DAP) soldered to a 4–6 via ground plane (Section 5, Pin Functions) to achieve RθJB = 48.7°C/W - essential for reliable 1-A operation.
LM3404MA/NOPB Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- DC DC Regulator
- Topology:
- Step-Down (Buck)
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 6V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 42V
- Voltage - Output:
- 40V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 1A
- Frequency:
- 1MHz
- Dimming:
- PWM
- Applications:
- Lighting
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
LM3404MA/NOPB FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LM3404MA/NOPB through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LM3404MA/NOPB 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 LM3404MA/NOPB reliable?
The price and inventory of LM3404MA/NOPB are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LM3404MA/NOPB is usually 5 days.
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LM3404MA/NOPB orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LM3404MA/NOPB 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 LM3404MA/NOPB?
For technical support, including LM3404MA/NOPB datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LM3404MA/NOPB requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LM3404MA/NOPB is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LM3404MA/NOPB 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 LM3404MA/NOPB meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LM3404MA/NOPB?
All LM3404MA/NOPB units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LM3404MA/NOPB, 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 LM3404MA/NOPB part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LM3404MA/NOPB:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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