Texas Instruments TLV431BILPE3

Overview

TLV431BILPE3 from Texas Instruments is a low-voltage adjustable precision shunt regulator with 1.24 V reference voltage, 0.5% initial tolerance at 25°C, and operation from 1.24 V to 6 V output range. It delivers 0.25 Ω typical dynamic impedance, 80 µA typical cathode current, and supports industrial temperature range (–40°C to 85°C). It serves as a Zener replacement and error amplifier in isolated flyback SMPS feedback loops.

For engineers reviewing the TLV431BILPE3 datasheet, TLV431BILPE3 pinout, TLV431BILPE3 application, or TLV431BILPE3 equivalent, key selection criteria include reference accuracy, cathode current headroom, thermal drift (6 mV over –40°C to 85°C), SC-70 package footprint, and open-loop comparator capability with integrated reference.

Technical Context

The TLV431BILPE3 implements a bandgap-referenced transconductance amplifier driving a Darlington sink output stage. Its internal reference is trimmed to 1.24 V ±0.5% at 25°C and exhibits 6 mV total deviation over –40°C to 85°C. The device operates in two functional modes: open-loop comparator (with integrated 1.24 V threshold) and closed-loop shunt regulator (using external resistor divider for adjustable output).

It requires ≥55 µA minimum cathode current for regulation and maintains stability without an output capacitor due to internal compensation. The SC-70 (DCK) package enables ultra-small footprint while supporting thermal resistance of 87°C/W (junction-to-ambient).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TLV431BILPE3 is packaged in SC-70 (DCK), a 6-pin surface-mount package measuring 2.0 mm × 1.5 mm. Pin 1 is CATHODE, Pin 3 is REF, Pin 6 is ANODE; Pins 2, 4, and 5 are NC (no internal connection).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLV431AILPE3, TLV431BILPE3 provides tighter reference accuracy for precision feedback loops; compared with TLVH431ILP, it offers smaller footprint and lower quiescent current but sacrifices voltage and current headroom - selection depends on accuracy, voltage range, and space constraints.

Availability

TLV431BILPE3 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, isolated DC-DC converters, and precision voltage monitoring applications requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for TLV431BILPE3 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 decades of leadership in precision references and power ICs.

The TLV431 family was designed specifically for low-voltage, high-accuracy shunt regulation and integrated comparator functions in space-constrained industrial and communications power systems.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage tolerance of TLV431BILPE3 at 25°C?

The TLV431BILPE3 has a reference voltage tolerance of ±0.5% at 25°C, meaning its VREF is guaranteed between 1.234 V and 1.246 V under those conditions. This tighter tolerance distinguishes it from the TLV431A (±1%) and standard TLV431 (±1.5%) variants, making TLV431BILPE3 optimal for precision feedback loops where regulation accuracy is critical.

Can TLV431BILPE3 be used as a standalone comparator?

Yes, TLV431BILPE3 can operate in open-loop mode as a comparator with integrated 1.24 V reference. When supplied with ≥55 µA cathode current, it compares the voltage at the REF pin to its internal reference and sinks current when the REF voltage exceeds VREF. This eliminates the need for an external reference IC in threshold-detection circuits - a key capability of TLV431BILPE3.

What is the minimum cathode current required for regulation in TLV431BILPE3?

The TLV431BILPE3 requires a minimum cathode current of 55 µA to maintain regulation, with typical operation starting at 80 µA. Below this threshold, the device may exit linear regulation and exhibit reduced gain or delayed response. This low IK(min) enables efficient operation in ultra-low-power applications - a defining feature of TLV431BILPE3 versus older shunt regulators like TL431.

Which package does TLV431BILPE3 use, and how does it compare to SOT-23-3?

TLV431BILPE3 uses the SC-70 (DCK) package - a 6-pin surface-mount outline measuring 2.0 mm × 1.5 mm. It offers a 40% smaller footprint than the 3-pin SOT-23-3 variant while maintaining compatibility with standard reflow processes. Though pin count differs, the SC-70 version retains functional equivalence for TLV431BILPE3's core shunt regulator operation.

Does TLV431BILPE3 require an output capacitor for stability?

No, TLV431BILPE3 does not require an output capacitor for stability due to internal compensation. Its architecture remains stable across capacitive loads up to at least 1 nF without oscillation - verified in TI's Figure 5-19 and 5-21. However, if larger capacitive loads are used, phase margin data in the TLV431BILPE3 datasheet should guide selection to avoid instability.