Texas Instruments TLV431IDBVRG4

Overview

TLV431IDBVRG4 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. It functions as a programmable Zener replacement or error amplifier in isolated feedback loops for 3.3 V flyback SMPSs.

For engineers reviewing the TLV431IDBVRG4 datasheet, TLV431IDBVRG4 pinout, TLV431IDBVRG4 application, or TLV431IDBVRG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include reference accuracy over temperature (±6 mV from –40°C to 85°C), minimum cathode current (80 µA typical), ultra-small SC-70 package footprint, and compatibility with optocoupler-based secondary-side regulation.

Technical Context

The TLV431IDBVRG4 implements a bandgap-referenced error amplifier driving a Darlington sink output stage, enabling precise shunt regulation from 1.24 V to 6 V via two external resistors. Its internal architecture delivers sharp turn-on behavior and stable closed-loop operation without mandatory output capacitance.

It operates in two distinct functional modes: open-loop comparator mode (with integrated 1.24 V reference) and closed-loop shunt regulator mode (with feedback from cathode to reference pin). Thermal drift is specified as ±6 mV across –40°C to 85°C, matching its TLV431I grade rating.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TLV431IDBVRG4 is housed in an ultra-small SC-70 (DCK) package measuring 2.0 mm × 1.5 mm - 40% smaller than SOT-23-3 - with 6 terminals. Pin 1 is Cathode, Pin 3 is Reference, and Pin 6 is Anode; Pins 2, 4, and 5 are no-connect (NC) or substrate tie (Pin 2 must connect to Anode or remain open).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLV431IDBVRG4, TLV431ACDBVR offers superior accuracy at the expense of cost, while TLVH431IDBVR trades package size and pin count for extended voltage range and current capability - neither is pin-compatible, requiring PCB redesign.

Availability

TLV431IDBVRG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial power supplies, isolated DC-DC converters, and embedded voltage monitoring systems requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for TLV431IDBVRG4 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 delivering analog and embedded processing solutions, with leadership in precision analog, power management, and signal chain technologies.

The TLV431x family was designed specifically for low-voltage, high-accuracy shunt regulation in space-constrained power systems - targeting 3.3 V and lower-output isolated SMPSs, battery monitors, and comparator-based protection circuits.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage tolerance of TLV431IDBVRG4 at 25°C?

The TLV431IDBVRG4 has a reference voltage tolerance of ±1% at 25°C, corresponding to a 1.24 V nominal V_REF ranging from 1.228 V to 1.252 V. This specification is defined in Section 5.6 of the TI datasheet for the TLV431A grade, which applies to TLV431IDBVRG4 per its part number suffix 'I' (industrial temp) and 'A' (1% tolerance). The device maintains this accuracy across its operating temperature range.

Can TLV431IDBVRG4 replace a standard Zener diode?

Yes, TLV431IDBVRG4 can directly replace low-voltage Zener diodes (1.2 V–3.3 V) as a programmable shunt regulator. Unlike passive Zeners, it offers ±1% initial tolerance, 0.25 Ω dynamic impedance, and adjustable output from 1.24 V to 6 V using two resistors. Its sharp turn-on and low minimum cathode current (80 µA) make it especially effective in low-power and precision applications where Zener performance is inadequate.

What is the maximum cathode voltage for TLV431IDBVRG4?

The absolute maximum cathode-to-anode voltage (V_KA) for TLV431IDBVRG4 is 7 V, per Section 5.1 Absolute Maximum Ratings. However, the recommended operating range is 1.24 V to 6 V, as specified in Section 5.3. Operating above 6 V may compromise regulation accuracy and long-term reliability, and is not supported by electrical characteristics data in the datasheet.

Does TLV431IDBVRG4 require an output capacitor for stability?

No, TLV431IDBVRG4 is internally compensated and does not require an output capacitor between cathode and anode for basic stability. Its architecture allows stable closed-loop operation without external capacitance - a key advantage over many linear regulators. However, if an output capacitor is used for filtering, Figure 5-19 in the datasheet provides phase margin guidance to avoid oscillation with capacitive loads.

What package type is used for TLV431IDBVRG4?

TLV431IDBVRG4 uses the SC-70 (DCK) package - a 6-pin surface-mount outline measuring 2.0 mm × 1.5 mm. This ultra-small footprint is 40% smaller than SOT-23-3 and accommodates high-density PCB layouts. Pin configuration follows TI's DCK pinout: Pin 1 = Cathode, Pin 3 = Reference, Pin 6 = Anode, with Pins 2, 4, and 5 designated NC (Pin 2 must connect to Anode or remain open).