Texas Instruments TLV431IDBVTE4

Overview

TLV431IDBVTE4 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 TLV431IDBVTE4 datasheet, TLV431IDBVTE4 pinout, TLV431IDBVTE4 application, or TLV431IDBVTE4 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 constraints for stable feedback implementation.

Technical Context

The TLV431IDBVTE4 implements a bandgap-referenced error amplifier with Darlington output stage, enabling precise shunt regulation from 1.24 V to 6 V via two external resistors. Its internal reference is trimmed to 1.24 V with ±1% accuracy (TLV431A grade) and exhibits 6 mV max VREF deviation over –40°C to +85°C.

It operates in two distinct functional modes: open-loop comparator mode (with integrated 1.24 V reference) requiring ≥55 µA cathode current for full gain, and closed-loop shunt regulator mode where feedback from cathode to REF sets output voltage - both modes are stable without external compensation capacitors.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TLV431IDBVTE4 is housed in a 6-pin SC-70 (DCK) package measuring 2.0 mm × 1.5 mm - 40% smaller than SOT-23-3 - with exposed substrate pad connected internally to ANODE or left floating per layout guidance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLV431IDBVTE4, TLV431ACDBVR offers tighter reference accuracy and broader temperature coverage but shares identical pinout and SC-70 footprint; TLVH431IDBVR extends voltage and current capability at the cost of reduced accuracy (1%) and different 3-pin SOT-23 packaging.

Availability

TLV431IDBVTE4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for secondary-side regulation in isolated SMPS, voltage monitoring in industrial control panels, and Zener replacement in battery-powered IoT nodes requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for TLV431IDBVTE4 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 and power management solutions.

The TLV431 family was designed specifically for low-voltage, high-accuracy shunt regulation and integrated reference applications - targeting space- and power-constrained systems in industrial, computing, and communications infrastructure.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage tolerance of TLV431IDBVTE4 at 25°C?

The TLV431IDBVTE4 is a TLV431A-grade device with a reference voltage tolerance of ±1% at 25°C, meaning its VREF falls between 1.228 V and 1.252 V under nominal conditions. This tolerance expands to ±6 mV over the full –40°C to +85°C operating range, supporting reliable performance in industrial environments.

Can TLV431IDBVTE4 replace a standard 3.3 V Zener diode?

Yes, TLV431IDBVTE4 can directly replace a 3.3 V Zener diode when configured with R1 = 16.2 kΩ and R2 = 10 kΩ (standard E96 values), yielding VO ≈ 3.3 V. Its 0.25 Ω dynamic impedance and 6 mV temperature drift significantly outperform typical 5% Zeners, especially under varying load and temperature conditions.

What is the minimum cathode current required for regulation in TLV431IDBVTE4?

The TLV431IDBVTE4 requires a minimum cathode current (I_K(min)) of 55 µA to maintain regulation at 25°C, rising to 80 µA across the full –40°C to +85°C range. This value determines the maximum resistance allowed in the feedback divider and influences bias network design in ultra-low-power applications.

Does TLV431IDBVTE4 require an output capacitor for stability?

No, TLV431IDBVTE4 is internally compensated and remains stable without an output capacitor between cathode and anode. However, if a capacitor is added (e.g., for noise filtering), Figure 5-19 in the datasheet provides phase margin vs. capacitive load curves to guide selection and avoid oscillation - particularly relevant in optocoupler-coupled feedback loops.

How does the SC-70 package of TLV431IDBVTE4 compare to SOT-23-3 in size?

The TLV431IDBVTE4 uses a 6-pin SC-70 (DCK) package measuring 2.0 mm × 1.5 mm, which is 40% smaller in footprint than the standard 3-pin SOT-23-3 (2.92 mm × 2.37 mm). Though pin count differs, the SC-70's compact size benefits high-density layouts in portable and modular power designs.