Texas Instruments TLV431IDBVRE4

Overview

TLV431IDBVRE4 from Texas Instruments is a low-voltage adjustable precision shunt regulator with 1.24 V reference voltage, ±1% 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 secondary-side regulation, Zener replacement, and voltage monitoring circuits.

For engineers reviewing the TLV431IDBVRE4 datasheet, TLV431IDBVRE4 pinout, TLV431IDBVRE4 application, or TLV431IDBVRE4 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, SC-70 package details, functional mode distinctions (open-loop comparator vs. closed-loop shunt regulator), thermal performance data, and real-world design implications for 3.3 V SMPS feedback and low-voltage sensing.

Technical Context

The TLV431IDBVRE4 implements a bandgap-referenced error amplifier with Darlington sink output, enabling precise voltage regulation via external resistor divider feedback between cathode and reference pins. It operates in two distinct functional modes: open-loop comparator (with internal 1.24 V reference) and closed-loop shunt regulator (with adjustable output from 1.24 V to 6 V).

Its ultra-low 80 µA typical minimum cathode current enables operation in energy-constrained designs, while its 0.25 Ω dynamic impedance ensures tight regulation under load transients. The device is internally compensated and stable without output capacitance, though phase margin vs. capacitive load curves guide stability optimization when using CL > 1 nF.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TLV431IDBVRE4 uses the SC-70 (DCK) 6-pin package with substrate-connected pin 2. Pin 1 is cathode (shunt current input), pin 3 is anode (common ground node), and pin 6 is reference (threshold input). Pins 4 and 5 are no-connect; pin 2 must be tied to anode or left floating per TI layout guidance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLV431ACDBVR, TLV431IDBVRE4 trades 0.5% initial accuracy for lower cost and sufficient stability for commercial-temperature power supervision; compared with TL431CDBZR, it enables regulation down to 1.24 V and operates at 1/12.5 the minimum cathode current - making it irreplaceable in modern low-voltage, low-power systems.

Availability

TLV431IDBVRE4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for isolated flyback SMPS feedback, Zener diode replacement, and voltage monitoring applications requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term manufacturing continuity.

Supply support for TLV431IDBVRE4 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 and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in precision analog ICs, power management, and industrial interface solutions.

The TLV431IDBVRE4 belongs to TI's precision shunt regulator product line, designed specifically for low-voltage, low-power feedback and reference applications in switching power supplies, battery management, and sensor signal conditioning.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage tolerance of TLV431IDBVRE4 at 25°C?

The TLV431IDBVRE4 has a reference voltage tolerance of ±1% at 25°C, corresponding to a V_REF range of 1.228 V to 1.252 V. This is confirmed in Section 5.6 of the TI datasheet SLVS139Z for the TLV431A grade, which TLV431IDBVRE4 implements. The 'I' suffix denotes industrial temperature range (–40°C to 85°C), and the 'A' grade specifies the 1% initial accuracy bin.

Can TLV431IDBVRE4 replace a standard Zener diode in a 3.3 V regulator circuit?

Yes, TLV431IDBVRE4 can directly replace a Zener diode in 3.3 V regulator circuits - but with critical advantages: it achieves adjustable output from 1.24 V to 6 V using two resistors, offers ±1% initial tolerance (vs. typical 5% Zener), and maintains 0.25 Ω dynamic impedance for superior load regulation. Unlike Zeners, TLV431IDBVRE4 requires a minimum 80 µA cathode current and proper REF pin biasing.

What package type does TLV431IDBVRE4 use, and how many pins are functional?

TLV431IDBVRE4 uses the SC-70 (DCK) 6-pin package. Three pins are functional: Pin 1 (CATHODE), Pin 3 (REF), and Pin 6 (ANODE). Pins 4 and 5 are no-connect; Pin 2 is the substrate connection, which must be tied to ANODE or left floating per TI layout guidelines. The 2.0 mm × 1.5 mm footprint is 40% smaller than SOT-23-3.

How does TLV431IDBVRE4 behave in open-loop versus closed-loop configurations?

In open-loop mode, TLV431IDBVRE4 acts as a comparator: the REF pin voltage is compared to the internal 1.24 V reference, producing a saturated open-collector output at CATHODE. In closed-loop mode, feedback from CATHODE to REF creates a shunt regulator that maintains precise output voltage (1.24 V to 6 V) - enabled only when ≥80 µA cathode current flows and REF is properly biased.

What is the minimum cathode current required for TLV431IDBVRE4 to regulate accurately?

The TLV431IDBVRE4 requires a minimum cathode current of 80 µA typical (up to 100 µA maximum over temperature) to enter and maintain regulation. Below this threshold, gain drops significantly, causing slow response and inaccurate reference tracking. This value is specified in Section 5.5 (IK(min)) of the datasheet for the TLV431A grade, which applies to TLV431IDBVRE4.