Texas Instruments TLVH431CDCKRG4

Overview

TLVH431CDCKRG4 from Texas Instruments is a low-voltage adjustable precision shunt regulator in SC-70 package, providing 1.24 V reference voltage with ±0.5% initial tolerance (B-grade), 0.25 Ω typical dynamic impedance, and operation down to 100 μA cathode current. It serves as an error amplifier or voltage reference in isolated flyback SMPS feedback loops, especially for 3.3 V output regulation.

For engineers reviewing the TLVH431CDCKRG4 datasheet, TLVH431CDCKRG4 pinout, TLVH431CDCKRG4 application, or TLVH431CDCKRG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include reference accuracy over –40°C to +125°C, ultra-low minimum cathode current, SC-70 footprint constraints, and compatibility with optocoupler-based secondary-side regulation topologies.

Technical Context

The TLVH431CDCKRG4 implements a bandgap-referenced error amplifier with Darlington output stage, enabling precise shunt regulation from 1.24 V to 18 V via two external resistors. Its open-loop gain supports comparator-mode operation with integrated 1.24 V threshold, while closed-loop behavior delivers stable regulation without mandatory output capacitance.

It operates across –40°C to +125°C (Q-grade), maintains 0.1–0.5 μA reference terminal current over temperature, and exhibits <31 mV VREF deviation across full range. The device achieves sharp turn-on characteristics and low leakage (<0.1 μA off-state cathode current), making it suitable for low-power monitoring and precision biasing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TLVH431CDCKRG4 uses the 6-pin SC-70 (DCK) package (2.00 mm × 1.25 mm), featuring a substrate-connected pin requiring connection to ANODE or floating per datasheet guidance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLVH431CDCKRG4, TLVH431IDCKR trades reference accuracy for cost in commercial-temp applications, while TLVH431QDBZR offers identical thermal and accuracy specs in a larger, more thermally efficient package with non-compatible pinout - requiring PCB redesign.

Availability

TLVH431CDCKRG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for isolated flyback SMPS, precision ADC reference, low-power voltage monitoring, and Zener replacement applications requiring stable component supply and guaranteed long-term sourcing.

Supply support for TLVH431CDCKRG4 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 leadership in precision analog ICs and power solutions.

The TLVH431 family was designed for low-voltage, high-accuracy shunt regulation in space-constrained and thermally demanding applications including isolated power supplies, data acquisition systems, and industrial monitoring circuits.

FAQ

What is the reference voltage tolerance of TLVH431CDCKRG4 at 25°C?

The TLVH431CDCKRG4 has a reference voltage tolerance of ±0.5% at 25°C, corresponding to its B-grade specification. This means VREF is guaranteed between 1.234 V and 1.246 V under nominal conditions, enabling high-accuracy feedback in precision power and measurement circuits. The TLVH431CDCKRG4 maintains this grade across its full operating temperature range.

Can TLVH431CDCKRG4 operate with cathode currents below 1 mA?

Yes, TLVH431CDCKRG4 is specifically optimized for ultra-low-current operation, with a minimum cathode current of only 100 μA for regulation - significantly lower than the 1 mA required by TL431. This makes TLVH431CDCKRG4 ideal for energy-efficient flyback converters, battery-backed monitors, and low-quiescent-current bias networks where TLVH431CDCKRG4 sustains regulation without compromising accuracy.

What package type does TLVH431CDCKRG4 use, and how does it compare to SOT-23?

TLVH431CDCKRG4 uses the 6-pin SC-70 (DCK) package measuring 2.00 mm × 1.25 mm, which is 40% smaller than the standard 3-pin SOT-23-3. While both are surface-mount, the SC-70 has distinct pinout (CATHODE/ANODE/REF/NC/NC/Substrate) and higher thermal resistance (259°C/W vs. ~206°C/W for SOT-23). TLVH431CDCKRG4's compact size benefits space-limited designs, though thermal design must account for its reduced heat dissipation capability.

Is TLVH431CDCKRG4 suitable for automotive applications?

Yes, TLVH431CDCKRG4 is qualified for automotive-grade operation with a specified temperature range of –40°C to +125°C (Q-grade). It meets stringent reliability requirements for under-hood and infotainment power supplies, offering stable 1.24 V reference performance, low drift, and robust ESD protection (±2000 V HBM). TLVH431CDCKRG4 is commonly used in automotive DC/DC converters requiring secondary-side regulation and fault-tolerant voltage monitoring.

How does TLVH431CDCKRG4 differ from TL431 in practical design?

TLVH431CDCKRG4 differs from TL431 by supporting lower operating voltage (1.24 V vs. 2.5 V reference), requiring less cathode current (100 μA vs. 1 mA), and offering smaller SC-70 packaging. Unlike TL431, TLVH431CDCKRG4 achieves stable regulation without mandatory output capacitance due to internal compensation. These differences make TLVH431CDCKRG4 preferable in modern low-voltage, low-power, and space-constrained designs where TL431 cannot meet performance or footprint requirements.