Texas Instruments TLV431IDBVTG4

Overview

TLV431IDBVTG4 from Texas Instruments is a low-voltage adjustable precision shunt regulator with 1.24 V reference voltage, ±1% 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 minimum cathode current, and supports secondary-side regulation in isolated flyback SMPSs.

For engineers reviewing the TLV431IDBVTG4 datasheet, TLV431IDBVTG4 pinout, TLV431IDBVTG4 application, or TLV431IDBVTG4 equivalent, key selection considerations include reference accuracy over temperature (±6 mV from –40°C to 85°C), ultra-small SC-70 package footprint, open-loop comparator capability with integrated reference, and compatibility with optocoupler-based feedback in 3.3 V supply systems.

Technical Context

The TLV431IDBVTG4 implements a three-terminal adjustable shunt reference architecture with an internal bandgap reference and high-gain NPN-based error amplifier. Its functional modes include closed-loop regulation (as a voltage-controlled current sink) and open-loop comparator operation-both enabled by the same reference and amplification core.

It operates with cathode-to-anode voltage (VKA) as low as 1.24 V and requires ≥55 µA cathode current for regulation across its full industrial temperature range (–40°C to 85°C). The device is internally compensated and stable without external capacitors, though phase margin vs. capacitive load is characterized up to 1 nF.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TLV431IDBVTG4 is housed in a 6-pin SC-70 (DCK) package measuring 2.0 mm × 1.5 mm - 40% smaller than SOT-23-3 - with thermal resistance R_θJA = 87°C/W. Pin 1 is CATHODE, Pin 3 is REF, Pin 6 is ANODE; Pins 2 and 4–5 are NC or substrate connection (must tie to ANODE or leave open).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLV431IDBVTG4, TLV431ACDBVR offers higher accuracy at lower cost in commercial environments, while TLVH431IDBVR trades package size and precision for extended voltage and current capability-making each suitable for distinct design constraints in power feedback and sensing.

Availability

TLV431IDBVTG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for isolated SMPS regulation, low-voltage rail monitoring, and programmable current source designs requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for TLV431IDBVTG4 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 as a low-voltage, low-power alternative to TL431 for modern energy-efficient systems-targeting 3.3 V and lower supply domains in industrial, telecom, and computing applications.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage tolerance of TLV431IDBVTG4 at 25°C?

The TLV431IDBVTG4 has a reference voltage tolerance of ±1% at 25°C, corresponding to a VREF range of 1.228 V to 1.252 V. This specification is confirmed in Section 5.6 of the official TI datasheet SLVS139Z and applies specifically to the TLV431A-grade variant denoted by the "I" suffix in TLV431IDBVTG4.

Which package type does TLV431IDBVTG4 use, and what are its dimensions?

TLV431IDBVTG4 uses the SC-70 (DCK) package, a 6-pin surface-mount outline measuring 2.0 mm × 1.5 mm. This ultra-compact footprint is 40% smaller than standard SOT-23-3 and features a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of 87°C/W, as documented in TI's Package Information table and Thermal Metrics section.

Can TLV431IDBVTG4 operate as a comparator, and how is it configured?

Yes, TLV431IDBVTG4 can operate as an open-loop comparator with integrated reference. Configure it by applying a voltage to the REF pin while supplying ≥55 µA cathode current; the CATHODE pin then swings between ~1 V (low) and the supply rail (high). This mode is explicitly supported in Section 7.4.1 and Figure 8-2 of the TLV431 datasheet.

What is the minimum cathode current required for regulation in TLV431IDBVTG4?

The minimum cathode current (IK(min)) for regulation in TLV431IDBVTG4 is 55 µA at –40°C to 85°C, with a typical value of 80 µA at 25°C. This parameter is specified in Section 5.5 (TLV431) and Section 5.6 (TLV431A) of the datasheet and reflects the lowest current needed to maintain linear operation and reference accuracy.

How does TLV431IDBVTG4 differ from TL431 in terms of operating voltage and current?

TLV431IDBVTG4 operates down to 1.24 V cathode-to-anode voltage and draws as little as 55 µA minimum cathode current, whereas TL431 requires ≥2.5 V and ≥1 mA. This makes TLV431IDBVTG4 suitable for 1.8 V–3.3 V systems where TL431 cannot regulate, as stated in Section 7.1 and the Functional Description of the TI datasheet.