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Nexperia USA Inc. NCR321PASX
- Part No.:
- NCR321PASX
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 6-UDFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
NCR321PASX.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRVR LIN PWM 250MA 6DFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:3,523
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Product details
Overview
NCR321PAS from Nexperia is a resistor-equipped NPN transistor LED driver with integrated diodes in a DFN2020D-6 (SOT1118D) package, delivering stabilized 10 mA output current without external components and up to 250 mA with REXT, featuring digital PWM dimming support up to 10 kHz and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive interior lighting.
For engineers reviewing the NCR321PAS datasheet, NCR321PAS pinout, NCR321PAS application, or NCR321PAS equivalent, this page provides verified pin functions, thermal derating behavior, enable voltage threshold (4.5 V max), output current accuracy over temperature (−0.27 %/K), and parallelization capability for higher-current LED strings.
Technical Context
The NCR321PAS integrates an NPN transistor with on-die biasing resistors and two diodes, forming a constant-current sink with internal reference and feedback. Its enable input accepts logic-level PWM signals up to 10 kHz, enabling direct microcontroller control without external level-shifting.
Current regulation relies on internal resistor (RINT = 95 Ω typ) and external REXT in series with the emitter, setting IOUT ≈ VBE/REXT. The 1.4 V minimum overhead enables operation with low-VF LEDs, while thermal resistance of 179 K/W (4-layer PCB, 1 cm² pad) supports 530 mW continuous dissipation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stabilized IOUT | 10 mA (no REXT); adjustable to 250 mA with REXT = 3 Ω - enables single-part scalability across LED brightness tiers |
| VEN max | 4.5 V - compatible with 3.3 V logic systems without level translation |
| VOUT,min | 1.4 V - allows use with red/amber LEDs (VF ≈ 1.8–2.2 V) at low supply headroom |
| IOUT temp drift | −0.27 %/K - ensures <±3% current variation from −40 °C to 85 °C for stable LED luminance |
| PTOT (4-layer PCB) | 530 mW - supports 250 mA @ 2.12 V drop (e.g., 1× white LED + 0.2 V margin) |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Validated for automotive interior lighting per stress test requirements - no additional qualification needed for dashboard/number plate applications |
| PWM frequency support | Up to 10 kHz - avoids audible noise and enables smooth dimming without visible flicker |
Pinout & Package
DFN2020D-6 (SOT1118D) is a 2.0 × 2.0 × 0.65 mm leadless thermally enhanced package with solderable side pads; body thickness 0.59–0.65 mm, pitch 0.65 mm, and 6 functional terminals (pins 1–6 active; pins 3, 4, 8 are NC).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | VEN | Enable input: TTL-compatible; device enabled when VEN ≥ 1.2 V (IEN = 1.2 mA typ at 3.3 V) |
| 2 | REXT | External current-setting resistor connection: ties to emitter; sets IOUT ≈ 0.95 V / REXT |
| 3 | N/C | No connection - electrically isolated; no PCB trace required |
| 4 | N/C | No connection - electrically isolated; no PCB trace required |
| 5 | GND | Ground reference for internal bias network and thermal path - must connect to large copper pour |
| 6 & 7 | IOUT | Output current sink terminals (dual bond wires): paralleled internally; connects to LED cathode |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated bias resistor | 1.5 kΩ typ - eliminates external base resistor, reducing BOM count and layout area |
| Low overhead voltage | 1.4 V - enables operation with 3.3 V supply driving single red LED (VF = 1.9 V) and 0.5 V margin |
| Thermal performance | Rth(j-a) = 179 K/W (4-layer PCB, 1 cm² pad) - sustains 250 mA continuously at Tamb ≤ 65 °C |
| Digital enable interface | Direct 3.3 V logic compatibility with 10 kHz PWM - removes need for gate drivers or optocouplers in micro-controlled lighting |
| Parallel operation support | Matched IOUT drift (−0.27 %/K) and identical RINT - enables precise current sharing when multiple units drive same LED string |
Applications
| Automotive Interior Lighting | Dashboard Backlighting |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Driving 3–5 white LEDs in door handle illumination or footwell lighting modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink regulating LED brightness independent of battery voltage fluctuations (9–16 V). Use Value: Eliminates need for external current-sense resistor and op-amp, reducing solution size by >40% vs. discrete transistor+resistor approach. |
Use Scenario: Uniform backlighting for segmented LCD displays in instrument clusters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PWM-dimmable current source synchronized to MCU timer outputs for dynamic contrast control. Use Value: 10 kHz PWM support prevents audible coil whine and ensures flicker-free display under camera capture. |
| Number Plate Illumination | Commercial Vehicle Cab Lighting |
|
Use Scenario: EU-compliant rear number plate lighting meeting ECE R87 photometric requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: AEC-Q101-qualified current regulator maintaining ±5% luminous flux over −40 °C to 85 °C ambient. Use Value: Qualified operation eliminates requalification effort for Tier 1 suppliers targeting global automotive programs. |
Use Scenario: Modular cab lighting system with field-replaceable LED boards powered from 24 V truck battery. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Parallel-configured current sinks (2× NCR321PAS) delivering 500 mA total to high-brightness LED arrays. Use Value: Matched thermal drift ensures balanced current sharing without external balancing resistors, improving reliability. |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| ON Semiconductor NSI45020AZT1G | Fixed 20 mA output; no REXT adjustment; 2.5 V min overhead; SOD-123 package | Limited to low-current indicator LEDs; unsuitable for PWM dimming or >100 mA loads | Select only for cost-sensitive, non-dimmable status indicators where 20 mA suffices |
| ROHM BD18336EFV-M | 36 V input range; IOUT adjustable 10–350 mA; built-in thermal shutdown; HTSOP-J8 package | Requires external MOSFET for high-side switching; larger footprint; higher BOM cost | Choose when operating above 16 V or requiring overtemperature protection in unventilated enclosures |
Compared with NSI45020AZT1G and BD18336EFV-M, the NCR321PAS uniquely balances AEC-Q101 compliance, 3.3 V logic compatibility, 10 kHz PWM support, and ultra-compact DFN2020D-6 packaging - making it optimal for space-constrained automotive LED modules requiring scalable current and direct MCU control.
Availability
NCR321PAS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive interior lighting, dashboard backlighting, number plate illumination, and commercial vehicle cab lighting requiring stable component supply and AEC-Q101 assurance.
Supply support for NCR321PAS 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
Nexperia is a leading semiconductor manufacturer specializing in high-volume, high-reliability discrete and analog devices, with core expertise in logic, power management, and automotive-qualified components.
The NCR32xPAS product line delivers integrated constant-current LED drivers optimized for automotive interior lighting applications, combining precision current regulation, thermal robustness, and compact packaging to reduce system complexity and validation effort.
FAQ
What is the maximum safe operating current for NCR321PAS at 85 °C ambient?
At Tamb = 85 °C, the maximum continuous IOUT is 180 mA when mounted on a 4-layer FR4 PCB with 1 cm² collector pad (derated from 250 mA at 25 °C using Rth(j-a) = 179 K/W and Tj,max = 150 °C). This assumes VOUT = 1.4 V and no additional board-level heating.
Can NCR321PAS drive multiple LEDs in series?
No - NCR321PAS is a single-ended current sink with 16 V VCE breakdown and 1.4 V minimum overhead. It supports only one LED (or parallel LEDs) per device. For series strings, use higher-voltage drivers like BD18336EFV-M or implement multi-stage regulation.
How does the enable pin behave during PWM dimming?
The VEN pin responds to logic-level edges with <100 ns propagation delay. At 10 kHz, the device fully switches between on/off states without current droop or overshoot, provided the MCU GPIO drives ≥1.2 mA into VEN (verified at 3.3 V with 1.5 kΩ internal bias).
Is NCR321PAS pin-compatible with NCR320PAS?
Yes - both share identical DFN2020D-6 (SOT1118D) pinout and mechanical footprint. However, NCR320PAS has 10 kΩ internal bias and 25 V VEN max, making it incompatible with 3.3 V logic; substitution requires verifying enable voltage and current-sense resistor values.
NCR321PASX Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 6-UDFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- Constant Current
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- -
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 16V
- Voltage - Output:
- 16V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 250mA
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- PWM
- Applications:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DFN2020D-6
NCR321PASX FAQ
1.How can I place an order for NCR321PASX through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for NCR321PASX 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 NCR321PASX reliable?
The price and inventory of NCR321PASX are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for NCR321PASX is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for NCR321PASX?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for NCR321PASX transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for NCR321PASX?
NCR321PASX orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your NCR321PASX 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 NCR321PASX?
For technical support, including NCR321PASX datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your NCR321PASX requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that NCR321PASX is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All NCR321PASX 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 NCR321PASX meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of NCR321PASX?
All NCR321PASX units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with NCR321PASX, 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 NCR321PASX part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for NCR321PASX:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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