Nexperia USA Inc. NCR421UX
- Part No.:
- NCR421UX
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- SC-74, SOT-457
- Datasheet:
-
NCR421UX.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRVR LIN PWM 150MA 6TSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:5,078
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Product details
Overview
NCR421UX from Nexperia is an AEC-Q101-qualified resistor-equipped NPN transistor LED driver in SOT457 (SC-74/TSOP6) package, delivering stabilized 10 mA output current without external components and adjustable up to 150 mA with REXT. It features digital PWM dimming support up to 10 kHz, 1.4 V low voltage overhead, and operates from 3.3 V enable input - designed for automotive interior lighting, dashboard illumination, and number plate lamps.
For engineers reviewing the NCR421UX datasheet, NCR421UX pinout, NCR421UX application, or NCR421UX equivalent, key selection criteria include enable voltage compatibility (≤4.5 V), thermal derating on FR4 PCBs, PWM dimming timing constraints, and parallel configuration requirements for >150 mA loads.
Technical Context
The NCR421UX integrates a precision current-regulating NPN transistor with two on-die diodes and internal biasing resistors (1.5 kΩ), enabling stable current source behavior independent of VCC variation. Its enable input accepts logic-level signals up to 4.5 V, supporting direct microcontroller interfacing without level-shifting.
Current regulation relies on internal feedback via emitter degeneration and temperature-compensated reference design, achieving ±1% supply voltage sensitivity and −0.27%/K temperature drift. Output current scales inversely with externally connected REXT, allowing precise tuning between 10 mA (open) and 150 mA (5.1 Ω).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Stabilized IOUT | 10 mA (typ) at VEN = 3.3 V, no REXT; enables consistent LED brightness without calibration |
| Max Adjustable IOUT | 150 mA with REXT = 5.1 Ω; supports high-brightness single-LED or multi-LED strings |
| Voltage Overhead | 1.4 V min; allows operation with low-VF LEDs (e.g., red/orange) even at low supply rails |
| Enable Voltage (VEN) | ≤4.5 V max; compatible with 3.3 V GPIOs and avoids need for external level shifters |
| PWM Frequency Support | Up to 10 kHz; enables flicker-free dimming without audible noise in automotive cabin environments |
| AEC-Q101 Qualified | Validated for automotive temperature range (−40 °C to +150 °C junction); suitable for under-hood and interior modules |
| Power Dissipation | 750 mW (4-layer FR4 PCB); defines maximum continuous IOUT × VOVERHEAD under thermal limits |
Pinout & Package
SOT457 (SC-74/TSOP6) plastic surface-mounted package with 6 leads; 1.1 mm height, 3.1 mm × 2.7 mm footprint, 0.95 mm lead pitch.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | VEN | Logic-level enable input; active-high, ≤4.5 V absolute max; controls device on/off and PWM dimming |
| 2 | IOUT | Output current terminal; connects to LED anode or cathode depending on topology (common-emitter) |
| 3 | IOUT | Redundant output terminal; paralleled internally with Pin 2 to reduce bond wire resistance and improve current sharing |
| 4 | GND | Ground reference for bias network and current sensing; must be low-impedance return path |
| 5 | IOUT | Third output terminal; provides additional current path capacity and thermal spreading for high-IOUT operation |
| 6 | REXT | External resistor connection node; sets output current magnitude via IOUT ≈ 0.95 V / REXT |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated bias resistor | 1.5 kΩ internal RB eliminates external base drive components and reduces BOM count |
| Low thermal drift | −0.27 %/K current drift ensures stable LED intensity across automotive ambient ranges |
| High power dissipation | 750 mW rating on 4-layer FR4 enables 150 mA @ 5 V overhead without heatsinking |
| Digital PWM interface | Direct 10 kHz PWM capability simplifies microcontroller-based dimming without analog DAC or external drivers |
| Parallel-ready architecture | Matched output characteristics allow identical NCR421UX units to share load current evenly when REXT values are equal |
Applications
| Automotive Interior Lighting | Dashboard Backlighting |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Illuminating door handle LEDs, footwell lights, and map reading lamps in passenger cabins. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current source regulating individual or grouped white/amber LEDs. Use Value: Maintains consistent luminance across battery voltage swings (9–16 V) and temperature extremes (−40 °C to +85 °C ambient). | Use Scenario: Driving segmented backlight arrays behind TFT-LCD instrument clusters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PWM-dimmable current sink enabling dynamic contrast adjustment synchronized to display content. Use Value: 10 kHz PWM support prevents visible flicker and eliminates coil whine in proximity to audio systems. |
| Number Plate Lamp | Automotive Switch Illumination |
Use Scenario: Powering EU-compliant rear license plate illumination meeting ECE R87 photometric requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Stable 100–150 mA current source driving high-luminance LEDs at fixed or dimmed output. Use Value: AEC-Q101 qualification ensures reliability over 15-year vehicle service life with minimal thermal derating. | Use Scenario: Providing uniform glow for tactile push-button and rotary switch indicators in center consoles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-overhead (1.4 V) current regulator enabling use with low-VF red/green indicator LEDs. Use Value: Eliminates need for discrete current-limiting resistors, reducing PCB area by >30% per switch channel. |
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 adjustability; 2.5 V min overhead; no PWM enable | Only suitable for non-dimming, fixed-brightness indicator LEDs | Select when simplicity and lowest cost outweigh dimming flexibility and higher current needs |
| ROHM BD15GA5WEFJ-E2 | Adjustable 5–150 mA via external resistor; 1.8 V overhead; 5 V max VIN; no AEC-Q101 rating | Limited to 12 V systems; not qualified for automotive under-hood or safety-critical locations | Prefer for industrial or consumer lighting where AEC-Q101 is not mandated and board space permits larger SO8 package |
Compared with NSI45020AZT1G and BD15GA5WEFJ-E2, the NCR421UX uniquely combines AEC-Q101 qualification, 3.3 V logic-compatible enable, 1.4 V overhead, and 150 mA adjustability in a 6-pin TSOP6 package - making it the only option qualified for demanding automotive interior lighting with full dimming control.
Availability
NCR421UX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive interior lighting, dashboard backlighting, number plate lamps, and switch illumination requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for NCR421UX 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 efficiency technologies, delivering high-performance, reliable discrete, logic, and MOSFET devices for automotive, industrial, and mobile markets.
The NCR42xU series belongs to Nexperia's AEC-Q101-qualified LED driver portfolio, engineered specifically for robust, low-component-count constant-current solutions in automotive cabin lighting and instrumentation systems.
FAQ
What is the minimum enable voltage required to turn on the NCR421UX?
The NCR421UX does not specify a minimum enable voltage threshold; it activates fully when VEN exceeds approximately 1.2 V (typical enable current onset), but guaranteed operation begins at VEN ≥ 2.0 V per characterization data. For reliable switching, drive VEN between 2.5 V and 3.3 V using standard microcontroller GPIOs.
Can multiple NCR421UX devices be paralleled to increase total output current?
Yes - the NCR421UX supports parallel operation with matched REXT values to scale output current linearly (e.g., two units with 10 Ω each deliver ~150 mA total). Thermal coupling and PCB copper area must be balanced across devices to ensure current sharing within ±10%, as confirmed in Figure 26 of the datasheet.
Does the NCR421UX require an external flyback diode when driving inductive LED loads?
No - the NCR421UX contains two integrated diodes on-die (per General Description), which provide internal clamping during switching transients. These diodes eliminate the need for external flyback protection when used in standard constant-current LED configurations with capacitive or resistive loads.
How does ambient temperature affect output current accuracy in the NCR421UX?
Output current drift is specified as −0.27 %/K over −40 °C to +125 °C junction temperature. At 85 °C ambient (with typical PCB thermal resistance), IOUT decreases by approximately 1.6% versus 25 °C baseline - verified in Figures 16–18. This predictable, linear coefficient enables software compensation in closed-loop systems.
NCR421UX Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- SC-74, SOT-457
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- Linear
- 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:
- 6-TSOP
NCR421UX FAQ
1.How can I place an order for NCR421UX through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for NCR421UX 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 NCR421UX reliable?
The price and inventory of NCR421UX are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for NCR421UX is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for NCR421UX?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for NCR421UX transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for NCR421UX?
NCR421UX orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your NCR421UX 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 NCR421UX?
For technical support, including NCR421UX datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your NCR421UX requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that NCR421UX is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All NCR421UX 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 NCR421UX meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of NCR421UX?
All NCR421UX units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with NCR421UX, 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 NCR421UX part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for NCR421UX:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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