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Nexperia USA Inc. NCR420ZAX
- Part No.:
- NCR420ZAX
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- TO-261-4, TO-261AA
- Datasheet:
-
NCR420ZAX.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRV LIN PWM 150MA SOT223
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,905
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Product details
Overview
NCR420ZAX from Nexperia is a resistor-equipped NPN transistor LED driver with integrated diodes in SOT223 (SC-73) package, delivering stabilized 10 mA output current without external components and up to 150 mA with REXT, featuring 1.4 V voltage overhead, 40 V max supply, and AEC-Q101 qualification for automotive interior lighting.
For engineers reviewing the NCR420ZAX datasheet, NCR420ZAX pinout, NCR420ZAX application, or NCR420ZAX equivalent, this device serves as a compact, thermally robust constant-current source for LED biasing where supply stability, low component count, and automotive-grade reliability are critical selection criteria.
Technical Context
The NCR420ZAX implements a monolithic resistor-equipped NPN transistor architecture with two on-die diodes, enabling precise current regulation via internal feedback without requiring external sense resistors. Its enable input operates directly at system rail voltage (up to 40 V), eliminating level-shifting circuitry.
Current stabilization relies on internal resistor (95 Ω typ) and emitter-base voltage tracking, achieving ±1% current variation over supply voltage changes and −0.27%/K temperature coefficient. The device functions as a two-terminal current sink when REXT is omitted, or a four-terminal adjustable sink when REXT is connected between Pin 2 and GND.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stabilized IOUT (no REXT) | 10 mA typical - provides fixed LED bias without external components, reducing BOM count and layout area |
| Max IOUT with REXT | 150 mA - supports high-brightness LED strings when paired with 5.1 Ω external resistor |
| Voltage overhead (VOUT, min) | 1.4 V - enables operation with low-VF LEDs (e.g., red/orange) while maintaining regulation margin |
| Supply voltage range | Up to 40 V - compatible with 12 V/24 V automotive systems and industrial DC rails without pre-regulation |
| Power dissipation (PTOT) | 1250 mW on 4-layer FR4 PCB - supports sustained 150 mA drive at ambient ≤75 °C with standard thermal pad |
| Thermal resistance Rth(j-a) | 70 K/W (4-layer PCB, 1 cm² collector pad) - enables predictable junction temperature rise under continuous load |
| AEC-Q101 qualified | Qualified per automotive stress test standard - validated for under-hood and cabin applications including instrument clusters and license plate lighting |
Pinout & Package
SOT223 (SC-73) plastic surface-mounted package with increased heatsink; 4 leads, exposed collector tab for thermal conduction to PCB copper.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 - VEN | Enable voltage input | Direct connection to system supply (up to 40 V); device active when VEN ≥ 1.5 V; no logic-level translation required |
| 2 - REXT | External current-setting resistor terminal | Connects to one end of REXT; sets IOUT = 0.95 V / REXT (typical); open-circuit yields 10 mA default |
| 3 - GND | Ground reference | Common return path for enable current, internal bias, and output current sink; must be low-impedance for stable regulation |
| 4 - IOUT | Constant-current output sink | Collector terminal delivering regulated current to LED anode; connects to cathode of LED string or load |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated current-setting resistor | 95 Ω typical - eliminates need for external sense resistor in base configuration, reducing footprint and cost |
| Low voltage overhead | 1.4 V minimum - allows use with single red LED (VF ≈ 2.0 V) from 3.3 V or 5 V supplies |
| High power dissipation capability | 1250 mW on optimized PCB - supports 150 mA × 1.4 V = 210 mW drop plus headroom for higher VLED strings |
| Supply voltage tolerance | 40 V absolute max - accommodates load-dump transients in 24 V automotive systems without external clamping |
| Automotive qualification | AEC-Q101 compliant - verified for temperature cycling, humidity, mechanical shock, and lifetime reliability in automotive environments |
Applications
| Automotive Interior Lighting | Dashboard Backlighting |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Driving white LED arrays behind analog gauge clusters in passenger vehicles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink regulating 20–30 mA per LED segment to maintain uniform brightness across temperature and supply variance. Use Value: Eliminates discrete current mirrors or op-amp-based regulators, reducing component count by 4× and PCB area by >30%. |
Use Scenario: Biasing edge-lit LCD backlight LEDs in center console displays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision current source ensuring consistent luminance across 8–12 parallel LED strings during PWM dimming cycles. Use Value: Maintains ±1% current matching between strings without trimming, avoiding visible brightness gradients at low dimming levels. |
| License Plate Illumination | Commercial Vehicle Marker Lights |
Use Scenario: Powering dual-red LED modules mounted on rear vehicle frames for regulatory-compliant illumination. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust current sink operating from 9–16 V battery rail, surviving cold cranking (6.5 V) and load dump (40 V). Use Value: AEC-Q101 qualification ensures 15-year field life in outdoor mounting locations with wide ambient temperature swings (−40 °C to +85 °C). |
Use Scenario: Driving amber LED arrays in side marker lights for Class 8 trucks and trailers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability current regulator supporting 150 mA peak drive for high-intensity flash patterns. Use Value: 1250 mW thermal rating enables continuous 150 mA operation on standard FR4 without heatsinks, simplifying mechanical design. |
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; 3.3 V max enable voltage; lower PTOT (500 mW) | Limited to low-current indicator LEDs; unsuitable for 150 mA loads or 24 V automotive rails | Select only for space-constrained 3.3 V indicator applications where adjustable current is unnecessary |
| ROHM BD15GA5WEFJ-E2 | Adjustable 5–150 mA via external resistor; 45 V max supply; 1.2 V overhead; requires separate enable logic | Needs external MOSFET for high-side switching; lacks integrated enable voltage tolerance up to 40 V | Prefer when system requires high-side control or tighter overhead (<1.2 V), but adds complexity vs. NCR420ZAX's direct-enable simplicity |
Compared with NSI45020AZT1G and BD15GA5WEFJ-E2, the NCR420ZAX uniquely combines 40 V direct-enable operation, 150 mA adjustability, and AEC-Q101 qualification in a single SOT223 package-enabling drop-in deployment in automotive LED modules without redesigning enable interface or thermal layout.
Availability
NCR420ZAX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive interior lighting, dashboard backlighting, license plate illumination, and commercial vehicle marker lights requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for NCR420ZAX 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 global semiconductor expert focused on essential semiconductors, delivering high-performance, reliable components for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications.
The NCR420ZAX belongs to Nexperia's AEC-Q101-qualified LED driver family, engineered specifically for robust, low-component-count constant-current biasing in automotive lighting systems where thermal resilience and supply rail tolerance are critical.
FAQ
What is the minimum supply voltage required for stable 10 mA operation?
The NCR420ZAX requires VCC ≥ VLED + 1.4 V to maintain regulation. For a typical red LED with VF = 2.0 V, minimum supply is 3.4 V. Below this, output current drops nonlinearly due to insufficient headroom across the internal transistor and resistor.
Can NCR420ZAX be used in parallel for higher current drive?
Yes-NCR420ZAX devices can be paralleled by connecting all VEN, GND, and IOUT pins together and using identical REXT values. This configuration splits current evenly and doubles power handling; thermal derating must follow the 4-layer PCB 1800 mW limit per device pair.
Does NCR420ZAX support PWM dimming?
No-NCR420ZAX lacks digital enable timing specifications for fast switching. For PWM dimming, use the pin-compatible NCR421Z variant, which specifies 10 kHz max input frequency and defined enable current behavior across temperature.
How does ambient temperature affect output current accuracy?
Output current drifts at −0.27 %/K over −40 °C to +85 °C ambient. At 85 °C, 10 mA nominal becomes ~9.3 mA; at −40 °C, it rises to ~10.7 mA. For precision applications, this drift must be factored into LED brightness calibration or compensated via system-level feedback.
NCR420ZAX Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- TO-261-4, TO-261AA
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- Shift Register
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- -
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 40V
- Voltage - Output:
- 40V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 150mA
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- PWM
- Applications:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -55°C ~ 150°C (TA)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q101
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- SOT-223
NCR420ZAX FAQ
1.How can I place an order for NCR420ZAX through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for NCR420ZAX 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 NCR420ZAX reliable?
The price and inventory of NCR420ZAX are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for NCR420ZAX is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for NCR420ZAX?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for NCR420ZAX transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for NCR420ZAX?
NCR420ZAX orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your NCR420ZAX 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 NCR420ZAX?
For technical support, including NCR420ZAX datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your NCR420ZAX requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that NCR420ZAX is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All NCR420ZAX 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 NCR420ZAX meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of NCR420ZAX?
All NCR420ZAX units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with NCR420ZAX, 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 NCR420ZAX part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for NCR420ZAX:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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