Texas Instruments TLV431BCDBVRG4

Overview

TLV431BCDBVRG4 from Texas Instruments is a low-voltage adjustable precision shunt regulator with 1.24 V reference voltage, ±0.5% initial tolerance at 25°C, 0.25 Ω typical dynamic impedance, and operation down to 1.24 V cathode-anode voltage - used as an integrated reference in isolated flyback feedback loops, Zener replacement circuits, and voltage monitoring systems.

For engineers reviewing the TLV431BCDBVRG4 datasheet, TLV431BCDBVRG4 pinout, TLV431BCDBVRG4 application, or TLV431BCDBVRG4 equivalent, key selection considerations include its SC-70-6 (DCK) package, 55–100 µA minimum cathode current requirement, –40°C to 85°C industrial temperature range (TLV431BI), and compatibility with optocoupler-based secondary-side regulation in 3.3 V SMPS designs.

Technical Context

The TLV431BCDBVRG4 implements a bandgap-referenced error amplifier driving a Darlington sink output stage, enabling precise shunt regulation via external resistor feedback between cathode and reference pins. Its internal architecture supports both open-loop comparator operation (with integrated 1.24 V threshold) and closed-loop error amplification modes without requiring external compensation.

It operates with cathode-anode voltage (VKA) from 1.24 V to 6 V and cathode current (IK) from 55 µA to 15 mA, delivering stable reference behavior across –40°C to 85°C with ≤6 mV total VREF deviation over that range. The device achieves sharp turn-on and low output impedance due to active output circuitry, not passive Zener conduction.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TLV431BCDBVRG4 uses the SC-70-6 (DCK) package - 2.0 mm × 1.5 mm footprint, 0.95 mm height - offering 40% smaller area than SOT-23-3 while supporting six terminals including NC and substrate connection.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar shunt regulator applications.

Compared with TLV431BCDBVRG4, TLV431BIDBVR trades package compatibility for pin-count reduction and eliminates substrate handling, while TLVH431ACDBVR extends voltage/current capability at the cost of reference precision - making TLV431BCDBVRG4 optimal for compact, low-voltage, high-accuracy shunt regulation.

Availability

TLV431BCDBVRG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for isolated flyback power supplies, voltage monitoring circuits, and Zener diode replacement designs requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term industrial temperature support.

Supply support for TLV431BCDBVRG4 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 company specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management technologies, with leadership in precision analog ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The TLV431 family was designed specifically for low-voltage shunt regulation and integrated reference applications - targeting space-constrained, energy-efficient systems needing accuracy below 2.5 V, such as USB-powered devices and 3.3 V SMPS secondary-side control.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for TLV431BCDBVRG4?

The TLV431BCDBVRG4 is specified for industrial operation from –40°C to +85°C (TLV431BI grade). Its reference voltage maintains ≤6 mV total deviation across this range, and minimum cathode current remains ≤100 µA. This makes TLV431BCDBVRG4 suitable for deployment in harsh ambient environments without derating.

How does TLV431BCDBVRG4 differ from standard TL431 shunt regulators?

TLV431BCDBVRG4 differs from TL431 by featuring a lower 1.24 V reference voltage (vs 2.5 V), reduced minimum cathode current (55–100 µA vs 1 mA), and operation down to 1.24 V cathode-anode voltage. These traits allow TLV431BCDBVRG4 to regulate in sub-2.5 V systems where TL431 cannot function, such as 1.8 V logic rails or 3.3 V isolated supplies.

Can TLV431BCDBVRG4 be used without an output capacitor?

Yes, TLV431BCDBVRG4 is internally compensated and stable without an output capacitor between cathode and anode - unlike many linear regulators. Stability testing confirms phase margin >45° up to 10 nF capacitive load. Adding a capacitor is optional and only recommended if specific noise filtering or transient response shaping is required in the TLV431BCDBVRG4 application.

What is the purpose of Pin 2 (Substrate) on TLV431BCDBVRG4?

Pin 2 on TLV431BCDBVRG4 is the die substrate connection - it must be connected to the ANODE node or left electrically open. It is not a signal pin but provides mechanical anchoring and thermal path integrity. Leaving it unconnected or tying it to incorrect potentials may cause parametric shifts or reliability issues, so adherence to TI's DCK package guidelines is mandatory for TLV431BCDBVRG4 designs.

Is TLV431BCDBVRG4 pin-compatible with other TLV431 variants in SC-70?

Yes, TLV431BCDBVRG4 shares identical SC-70-6 (DCK) pinout and footprint with all TLV431x variants offered in that package - including TLV431A and TLV431 versions. The 'B' suffix denotes ±0.5% reference tolerance, but electrical pin functions (CATHODE, REF, ANODE, NC, Substrate) and physical layout are fully consistent across TLV431BCDBVRG4, TLV431ACDBVR, and TLV431CDBVR.