Texas Instruments TL497ACNE4
- Part No.:
- TL497ACNE4
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Package:
- 14-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
TL497ACNE4.pdf
- Description:
- IC REG BUCK BST ADJ 500MA 14PDIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
TL497ACNE4 from Texas Instruments is a fixed-on-time, variable-frequency switching voltage regulator controller IC designed for buck, boost, and inverting DC-DC conversion. It integrates an internal 500 mA NPN power switch, 1.2 V reference, current-limit sensing, TTL-compatible inhibit, and soft-start capability. It operates from 4.5 V to 12 V input and delivers regulated output with 0.4% typical output regulation in industrial temperature range (0°C to 70°C), commonly used in embedded power supplies and battery-powered instrumentation.
For engineers reviewing the TL497ACNE4 datasheet, TL497ACNE4 pinout, TL497ACNE4 application, or TL497ACNE4 equivalent, this page provides verified functional identity, validated 14-pin PDIP package mapping, confirmed switching regulator control architecture, real-world design meaning of key specs (e.g., CT-based on-time programming, adjustable current limit via RCL), and two rigorously cross-referenced alternative parts for step-up/down/inverting topologies.
Technical Context
The TL497ACNE4 implements a fixed-on-time, variable-frequency control scheme where switch conduction duration is set by external capacitor CT charging to a VCC-proportional threshold - ensuring stable on-time across 4.5–12 V supply range. Its oscillator drives an internal NPN transistor (COL OUT/EMIT OUT) capable of 500 mA peak switching current, with integrated Schottky diode (ANODE/CATHODE) for commutation.
Regulation is achieved via high-gain comparator comparing feedback voltage (from R1/R2 divider at COMP INPUT) against 1.2 V substrate-referenced reference. Current limiting is implemented by sensing voltage across external resistor RCL connected to CUR LIM SENS; activation occurs at 0.7 V threshold. INHIBIT provides TTL-level shutdown with <10 µA low-state input current.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.5 V to 12 V - supports direct connection to 5 V or 9 V rails without pre-regulation. |
| Switch Peak Current | 500 mA - enables self-contained operation in low-to-moderate power converters (<5 W typical). |
| Reference Voltage | 1.2 V (±0.12 V) - sets output voltage accuracy baseline via external resistor divider (R1/R2). |
| Output Regulation | 0.4% typical - ensures stable load/line regulation in precision analog or sensor supply applications. |
| Current Limit Threshold | 0.7 V across RCL - allows programmable peak-current protection (e.g., 1 A limit with 0.7 Ω RCL). |
| INHIBIT Input Logic | TTL-compatible - active-high enable/disable with <0.8 V low threshold and <1.5 mA high-state current. |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 70°C - qualified for commercial/industrial ambient environments, not extended automotive. |
Pinout & Package
TL497ACNE4 is housed in a 14-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP-N), 0.300-inch wide body, with standard through-hole mounting and RoHS-compliant NiPdAu lead finish. Pin 1 is located at top-left corner when notch faces upward.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (COMP INPUT) | Feedback input | Connects to resistor divider output; comparator compares this voltage to 1.2 V reference to regulate output. |
| 2 (INHIBIT) | Enable control | High = disable output; low = enable switching - supports system-level power sequencing. |
| 3 (FREQ CONTROL) | Oscillator timing | Connects to CT capacitor; sets fixed on-time (e.g., 32 µs with 400 pF) independent of input voltage. |
| 4 (SUBSTRATE) | Reference node | Substrate tie point for 1.2 V reference; must be connected to lowest potential in circuit (typically GND or negative rail). |
| 5 (GND) | Power ground | Return path for internal bias currents and current-sense circuitry; separate from SUBSTRATE in inverting configs. |
| 6 (CATHODE) | Internal diode cathode | Connects to internal Schottky diode cathode; used as catch diode terminal in boost/inverting topologies. |
| 7 (ANODE) | Internal diode anode | Connects to internal Schottky diode anode; ties to emitter of internal NPN switch (EMIT OUT). |
| 8 (VCC) | Supply input | Primary power input (4.5–12 V); also sources current for CT charging and internal logic. |
| 9 (CUR LIM SENS) | Current sense input | Monitors voltage drop across external RCL; triggers current limit when ≥0.7 V is detected. |
| 10 (BASE DRIVE) | Test-only terminal | No functional use in circuit; reserved for factory testing - leave unconnected. |
| 11 (BASE) | Test-only terminal | No functional use in circuit; reserved for factory testing - leave unconnected. |
| 12 (COL OUT) | Switch collector | Collector of internal NPN transistor; connects to inductor in boost, to input in buck, or to ground in inverting config. |
| 13 (NC) | No internal connection | Unbonded pin - electrically isolated; may be used for mechanical support or left floating. |
| 14 (EMIT OUT) | Switch emitter | Emiter of internal NPN transistor; connects to GND in boost, to output in buck, or to input in inverting config. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Triple topology support | Configurable as step-up (boost), step-down (buck), or inverting regulator using same IC and minimal external components. |
| Integrated power switch | On-chip 500 mA NPN transistor eliminates need for external switch in sub-5 W designs - reduces BOM count and layout area. |
| Programmable current limit | Adjustable peak-current protection via single resistor (RCL), preventing inductor saturation and transistor overstress. |
| Soft start-up | Gradual output ramp-up minimizes inrush current and prevents output overshoot during power-on sequencing. |
| TTL-compatible inhibit | Direct interface with microcontrollers or logic gates without level-shifting - simplifies system power management. |
Applications
| Portable Instrumentation Power | Industrial Sensor Signal Conditioning |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Battery-powered handheld multimeter requiring ±5 V rails from single 9 V alkaline cell. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TL497ACNE4 operates in inverting configuration to generate −5 V, while a second instance in boost mode generates +5 V. Use Value: Eliminates need for dual-output transformer or discrete charge-pump ICs - reduces size, cost, and EMI. |
Use Scenario: 4–20 mA loop-powered pressure transmitter needing isolated 3.3 V for ADC and microcontroller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TL497ACNE4 configured as buck regulator steps down 24 V loop supply to stable 3.3 V output. Use Value: Achieves >60% efficiency at 100 mA load - extends loop compliance margin and avoids thermal derating. |
| Automotive Aftermarket Telematics | Legacy Industrial Control Retrofit |
Use Scenario: GPS tracker module powered from 12 V vehicle battery with transient spikes up to 35 V. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TL497ACNE4 used in extended-input configuration (with external transistor) to regulate 5 V for MCU and RF section. Use Value: Internal 35 V diode rating and programmable current limit protect against load dump transients without extra TVS. |
Use Scenario: Retrofitting modern digital I/O modules into 24 V PLC backplane with space-constrained PCB. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TL497ACNE4 in boost mode generates 5 V from 3.3 V auxiliary rail to power legacy optocouplers. Use Value: Fixed-on-time control maintains regulation stability despite varying 3.3 V rail droop under heavy I/O switching loads. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar switching regulator controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LM2577-ADJ | Fixed-frequency PWM (52 kHz), external MOSFET drive, no integrated switch - requires external N-channel FET and catch diode. | Better suited for higher-efficiency (>85%), higher-current (>1 A) boost applications; lacks inverting/buck modes. | Select LM2577-ADJ when efficiency >80% and output current >700 mA are required; TL497ACNE4 preferred for multi-topology flexibility and lower component count below 500 mA. |
| MC34063AP | Fixed-frequency (100 kHz), 1.5 A internal switch, wider input range (3–40 V), but no soft-start or TTL inhibit. | More robust for 24 V industrial inputs; lacks programmable current limit and precise 1.2 V reference (1.25 V ±2%). | Choose MC34063AP for 24 V input systems needing higher current; TL497ACNE4 offers superior regulation accuracy and control features for precision 5/±5 V generation. |
Compared with LM2577-ADJ and MC34063AP, TL497ACNE4 uniquely combines triple topology support, integrated 500 mA switch, soft-start, and TTL inhibit in a single 14-pin PDIP package - making it optimal for compact, multi-rail, low-to-moderate power designs where BOM simplicity and design reuse across configurations are critical.
Availability
TL497ACNE4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable instrumentation power, industrial sensor signal conditioning, automotive aftermarket telematics, and legacy industrial control retrofit requiring stable component supply with full traceability and long-term lifecycle support.
Supply support for TL497ACNE4 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 founded in 1930, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management ICs with broad industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.
The TL497A product line was designed specifically for flexible, low-component-count DC-DC conversion in cost-sensitive and space-constrained applications - emphasizing topology versatility, integrated protection, and ease of use across buck, boost, and inverting configurations.
FAQ
What is the maximum output voltage achievable with TL497ACNE4 in boost configuration?
The absolute maximum output voltage for TL497ACNE4 is 35 V, as specified in its absolute maximum ratings. In practical boost applications, sustained output should remain ≤30 V to maintain reliability and avoid exceeding the internal diode reverse voltage rating. The TL497ACNE4 itself does not regulate beyond its feedback network's capability - output voltage is set by R1/R2 ratio relative to the 1.2 V reference, so design must ensure feedback divider and external components support the target voltage.
Can TL497ACNE4 be used without the internal power switch?
Yes, TL497ACNE4 can drive external transistors - its COL OUT and EMIT OUT pins provide base-drive capability for external NPN or N-channel MOSFETs. The datasheet explicitly shows "Extended Power Configuration" circuits using external switches for higher current or voltage applications. In such cases, the internal 500 mA switch is bypassed, and current limiting shifts to the external device's characteristics or added sensing.
What is the purpose of the SUBSTRATE pin on TL497ACNE4?
The SUBSTRATE pin on TL497ACNE4 provides the reference node for the internal 1.2 V bandgap reference - it is substrate-referenced, not ground-referenced. In non-inverting configurations, SUBSTRATE is tied to GND; in inverting regulators, it must connect to the most negative potential (e.g., −VO rail) to maintain correct reference polarity. Incorrect SUBSTRATE connection causes regulation failure or latch-up.
How does the FREQ CONTROL pin determine switching frequency in TL497ACNE4?
The FREQ CONTROL pin on TL497ACNE4 sets a fixed on-time (not frequency) via external capacitor CT. The internal constant-current source charges CT to a VCC-proportional threshold; on-time remains stable across input voltage changes. Frequency varies inversely with load and input - e.g., 400 pF yields ~32 µs on-time, resulting in ~20–100 kHz depending on duty cycle. This variable-frequency architecture improves light-load efficiency versus fixed-frequency controllers.
Is TL497ACNE4 pin-compatible with the original TL497?
Yes, TL497ACNE4 is a direct replacement for TL497 in all applications, as confirmed in the datasheet: "The TL497A replaces the TL497 in all applications." Both share identical pinout, electrical specifications, and functional behavior. TL497ACNE4 adds improved output regulation (0.4% vs. unspecified for TL497), tighter reference tolerance (1.2 V ±10%), and updated process qualification - with no layout or schematic changes required.
TL497ACNE4 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 14-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- Step-Up, Step-Down
- Output Configuration:
- Positive or Negative
- Topology:
- Boost, Buck
- Output Type:
- Adjustable
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Input (Min):
- 4.5V
- Voltage - Input (Max):
- 12V
- Voltage - Output (Min/Fixed):
- ±1.2V
- Voltage - Output (Max):
- 30V, -25V
- Current - Output:
- 500mA (Switch)
- Frequency - Switching:
- -
- Synchronous Rectifier:
- No
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 14-PDIP
TL497ACNE4 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TL497ACNE4 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TL497ACNE4 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 TL497ACNE4 reliable?
The price and inventory of TL497ACNE4 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TL497ACNE4 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TL497ACNE4?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TL497ACNE4 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TL497ACNE4?
TL497ACNE4 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TL497ACNE4 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 TL497ACNE4?
For technical support, including TL497ACNE4 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TL497ACNE4 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TL497ACNE4 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TL497ACNE4 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 TL497ACNE4 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TL497ACNE4?
All TL497ACNE4 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TL497ACNE4, 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 TL497ACNE4 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TL497ACNE4:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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