Texas Instruments TLVH431AQDBVRQ1 — Automotive Low-Voltage Adjustable Precision Shunt Regulator (SOT‑23‑5)
The Texas Instruments TLVH431AQDBVRQ1 is an AEC‑Q100 Grade 1, low‑voltage adjustable precision shunt regulator tailored for modern automotive and industrial power subsystems. Belonging to the TLVH431A‑Q1 family, it features a 1.24 V reference that enables accurate regulation from 1.24 V to 18 V and supports up to 80 mA cathode current. With its compact 5‑pin SOT‑23 (DBV) package and RoHS‑compliant construction, this device is a dependable choice for space‑constrained designs where stability, temperature performance, and quality grades matter.
Quick highlights
- Manufacturer/Brand: Texas Instruments (TI)
- MPN: TLVH431AQDBVRQ1 (TLVH431A‑Q1 family)
- Category: Voltage References — Shunt (Adjustable)
- Reference voltage (typ): 1.24 V
- Adjustable output range: 1.24 V to 18 V
- Maximum cathode current: 80 mA
- Qualification: AEC‑Q100, Grade 1
- Operating temperature range: −40°C to +125°C
- Package: SOT‑23‑5 (DBV); mounting: surface mount
- Packaging: Tape & Reel (TR)
- RoHS status: RoHS compliant
- Lifecycle status: Active
Where the TLVH431AQDBVRQ1 fits
Designers increasingly rely on compact, precision shunt regulators to implement low‑cost, flexible reference and regulation functions. The TLVH431AQDBVRQ1 extends the concept of the classic TL431‑style reference into lower‑voltage domains with a 1.24 V reference, making it a strong fit for:
- Automotive systems: Power rail trimming, sensor biasing, regulator feedback references, and monitoring functions across harsh temperature ranges, backed by AEC‑Q100 (Grade 1) qualification.
- Power supplies and regulation: Secondary‑side references in isolated supplies, linear and switching regulator feedback networks, and post‑regulation stages for precise output setpoints.
- Voltage monitoring and biasing: Threshold generation and precision triggers for comparators or microcontroller ADC references within the 1.24–18 V adjustment span.
- Battery‑powered equipment: Low‑voltage rails, precision references for charging or battery fuel‑gauging circuits, and compact regulation where board area is constrained.
Because the device operates with a 1.24 V reference and supports up to 80 mA of cathode current, it is versatile for both reference‑only roles and modest shunt‑regulation tasks that require sourcing capability within its current rating.
Key specifications and features
Electrical parameters
- Device type: Adjustable shunt regulator
- Reference voltage (typ): 1.24 V
- Adjustable output range: 1.24 V to 18 V
- Maximum cathode current: 80 mA
- Tolerance grade: A‑grade (tight tolerance)
How it is typically used: the output setpoint is established by a resistive divider. In common shunt‑reference practice, the setpoint follows the general TL431‑style relationship where the regulated voltage is derived from the internal reference through an external resistor divider network. Always consult the latest datasheet for exact equations, recommended operating conditions, and any compensation guidance.
Package, pins, and mounting
- Package code: DBV (SOT‑23‑5)
- Pin count: 5
- Mounting type: Surface mount
- Packaging: Tape & Reel (TR)
The small SOT‑23‑5 footprint helps minimize PCB area while supporting automated assembly flows common in high‑volume automotive and industrial production.
Environmental and quality
- AEC‑Q100: Qualified (Grade 1)
- Operating temperature range: −40°C to +125°C
Grade 1 qualification indicates the device is assessed for automotive environments consistent with the stated temperature range, enhancing confidence in long‑term reliability under thermal stress.
Compliance
- Environmental: RoHS compliant; Pb‑free/Green
RoHS compliance supports global market access and simplified materials management.
Design‑in considerations
Setting the output voltage
For adjustable shunt regulators of this class, the output voltage is programmed with an external resistor divider from the output node to the reference pin and ground. Using the 1.24 V internal reference, a typical design flow is:
- Choose a divider current that balances power consumption with noise immunity (for example, microamps to a fraction of a milliamp for low‑power rails; higher in noisier environments).
- Select a convenient bottom resistor value (R2) from the output to the reference pin to set the divider current.
- Compute the top resistor (R1) from the output to ground using the standard TL431‑style relation, accounting for the 1.24 V reference. A commonly cited form is: VOUT ≈ VREF × (1 + R1/R2), with an additional small term related to reference pin bias current that designers often include for precision; refer to the TI datasheet for the exact equation and recommended ranges.
- Validate the solution across temperature (−40°C to +125°C) and expected tolerances, keeping in mind this device’s A‑grade (tight tolerance) characteristic.
Illustrative example (for concept only; verify with TI’s datasheet): If you target 3.3 V, and choose R2 = 10 kΩ, then R1 is on the order of (VOUT/VREF − 1) × R2 ≈ (3.3/1.24 − 1) × 10 kΩ ≈ 16.6 kΩ. Select the nearest standard value and refine as needed based on the exact equation and tolerance analysis.
Cathode current and loop stability
- Ensure the application’s expected cathode current remains within device limits (up to 80 mA). Observe the device’s recommended minimum cathode current for regulation, compensation, and stability as specified by TI (not specified here; check the datasheet).
- Pay close attention to output capacitance and compensation recommendations from TI for stable operation over line, load, and temperature; some operating regions may require specific capacitor types or series resistance for stability.
Layout tips
- Place the resistor divider close to the device to minimize coupling and error from trace drops.
- Use a solid ground reference. If the output node carries significant current, route the sensing divider from a quiet sense point to reduce IR‑drop induced error.
- Keep high‑dI/dt nodes away from the reference pin. Decouple as recommended by TI to mitigate noise.
- For automotive designs, follow company EMC/EMI and ESD layout practices, and validate performance with system‑level tests.
Comparison and selection notes
The TLVH431AQDBVRQ1 leverages a lower 1.24 V reference compared with classic 2.5 V‑class shunt references. That makes it attractive when you need setpoints below 2 V or when you want to keep divider ratios modest for outputs in the 2–5 V region. Within TI’s ecosystem, the “VH” in TLVH431 indicates this low‑voltage reference family. If your application relies on circuits designed around a 2.5 V reference, you’ll need to recalculate the external divider values when migrating to this device. Also, consult the TI datasheet for any pinout or compensation differences before considering it as a drop‑in replacement for other shunt references.
If you need different tolerances, packages, or grades, review the broader TLVH431A‑Q1 family on TI’s product page. Specific alternates, drop‑in replacements, or second sources are not specified here; use TI’s parametric search and cross‑reference tools to identify options that meet your electrical and qualification requirements.
Lifecycle, supply, and ordering guidance
- Lifecycle status: Active
- Inventory quantity (current record): 0
- Packaging: Tape & Reel (TR)
- Package: SOT‑23‑5 (DBV)
Sourcing guidance:
- Lead times and pricing can vary for automotive‑qualified parts based on region, reel size, and qualification. Engage authorized distributors or TI directly for the most accurate availability and forecast information.
- If your production schedule is sensitive, consider placing NCNR (non‑cancelable, non‑returnable) schedule orders early and aligning deliveries with build plans.
- Keep an approved vendor list (AVL) up to date. Where possible, validate an engineering alternate from the same family to mitigate supply risk; ensure any alternates meet the same AEC‑Q100 Grade 1 requirement if automotive compliance is mandatory.
Pricing notes: Pricing is not displayed here and varies by order quantity, qualification, and logistics. Refer to TI’s product page or authorized distributors for quotations.
Compliance and environmental profile
- Automotive compliance: AEC‑Q100 qualified (Grade 1)
- Environmental compliance: RoHS compliant; Pb‑free/Green
- Operating temperature: −40°C to +125°C
These attributes support use in automotive ECUs, ADAS peripherals, and industrial installations with broad ambient ranges. Always confirm the latest compliance statements on TI’s website and retain documentation for your PPAP and quality records if required.
Applications and use cases
- Automotive systems:
- Sensor bias and precision references in engine, transmission, or body electronics operating across −40°C to +125°C.
- Feedback references in DC/DC converters used in infotainment or lighting modules where a small, accurate reference is needed.
- Voltage monitoring thresholds for protection circuits, using the adjustable 1.24–18 V range to match system requirements.
- Power supplies and regulation:
- Post‑regulation and fine trimming of rails (for example, 1.8 V, 3.3 V, or 5 V) where the 1.24 V reference enables comfortable divider ratios.
- Isolated supplies with optocoupler feedback, where the shunt reference provides the secondary‑side error signal.
- Voltage monitoring and biasing:
- Creating stable thresholds for window comparators or watchdog circuits.
- Biasing precision analog stages that require a tight‑tolerance A‑grade reference.
- Battery‑powered equipment:
- Charging accessories and portable instruments that benefit from a low reference voltage and small SOT‑23‑5 footprint.
In each case, ensure the expected cathode current stays within the device’s operating envelope and that compensation follows TI’s recommendations for stability.
Practical tips for procurement and engineering collaboration
- Align the engineering BOM with supply realities early. Confirm TLVH431AQDBVRQ1 availability and delivery windows with authorized channels.
- Document the exact package (DBV SOT‑23‑5) and packaging (Tape & Reel) to avoid substitutions that may affect placement programs or feeder setups.
- Capture the AEC‑Q100 Grade 1 requirement in your sourcing notes if you are supplying automotive assemblies.
- For sustaining engineering, freeze divider values and validate across the full −40°C to +125°C range to ensure production consistency.
Resources
- TI product page: https://www.ti.com/product/TLVH431A-Q1
- TI datasheet: https://www.ti.com/lit/gpn/tlvh431a-q1
Always consult the latest datasheet for electrical characteristics, recommended operating conditions, stability guidance, and packaging information before finalizing your design.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
-
What is the reference voltage of the TLVH431AQDBVRQ1?
-
1.24 V (typical).
-
What adjustable output range does it support?
-
From 1.24 V to 18 V, set via external resistors.
-
What is the maximum cathode current?
-
Up to 80 mA.
-
What package and mounting does this device use?
-
SOT‑23‑5 (DBV) in a surface‑mount configuration; supplied in Tape & Reel.
-
Is it automotive qualified?
-
Yes. AEC‑Q100 qualified, Grade 1.
-
What operating temperature range does it cover?
-
−40°C to +125°C.
-
Is it RoHS compliant?
-
Yes, RoHS compliant; Pb‑free/Green.
-
Is it a drop‑in replacement for a classic TL431?
-
Not necessarily. The internal reference is 1.24 V rather than about 2.5 V, so external resistor values and some compensation details will differ. Review the TI datasheet and verify pin compatibility and stability in your circuit.
-
What is the lifecycle status?
-
Active (per current data provided). Always verify on TI’s product page for the latest status.
-
Are there specified alternates or replacements?
-
Not specified here. Consult TI’s parametric search and cross‑reference tools for close matches within the TLVH431A‑Q1 family or related devices.
-
How should I approach pricing and lead time?
-
Pricing depends on quantity, reel size, and region. Contact TI or authorized distributors for current quotes and availability.
Notes: Key parameters (range and current) are per TI’s TLVH431A‑Q1 datasheet/product page. Always verify final design limits in the latest datasheet before production.