LM3431AQMH/NOPB [TI]

具有集成升压控制器的 3 通道汽车类 LED 恒流驱动器 | PWP | 28 | -40 to 125;
LM3431AQMH/NOPB
型号: LM3431AQMH/NOPB
厂家: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS    TEXAS INSTRUMENTS
描述:

具有集成升压控制器的 3 通道汽车类 LED 恒流驱动器 | PWP | 28 | -40 to 125

驱动 控制器 开关 光电二极管 驱动器
文件: 总39页 (文件大小:1985K)
中文:  中文翻译
下载:  下载PDF数据表文档文件
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
3-Channel Constant Current LED Driver with Integrated Boost Controller  
Check for Samples: LM3431  
1
FEATURES  
DESCRIPTION  
The LM3431 is a 3-channel linear current controller  
combined with a boost switching controller ideal for  
driving LED backlight panels in space critical  
applications. The LM3431 drives 3 external NPN  
transistors or MOSFETs to deliver high accuracy  
constant current to 3 LED strings. Output current is  
adjustable to drive strings in excess of 200 mA. The  
LM3431 can be expanded to drive as many as 6 LED  
strings.  
2
LM3431Q/LM3431AQ are Automotive Grade  
Products that are AEC-Q100 Grade 1 Qualified  
(–40°C to 125°C operating junction  
temperature)  
3-Channel Programmable LED Current  
High Accuracy Linear Current Regulation  
Analog and Digital PWM Dimming Control  
Up to 25kHz Dimming Frequency  
>100:1 Contrast Ratio  
The boost controller drives an external NFET switch  
for step-up regulation from input voltages between 5V  
and 36V. The LM3431 features LED cathode  
feedback to minimize regulator headroom and  
optimize efficiency.  
Integrated Boost Controller  
5V-36V Input Voltage Range  
Adjustable Switching Frequency up to 1MHz  
LED Short and Open Protection  
A DIM input pin controls LED brightness from analog  
or digital control signals. Dimming frequencies up to  
25 kHz are possible with a contrast ratio of 100:1.  
Contrast ratios greater than 1000:1 are possible at  
lower dimming frequencies.  
Selectable Fault Shutdown or Automatic  
Restart  
Programmable Fault Delay  
Programmable Cycle by Cycle Current Limit  
Output Over Voltage Protection  
No Audible Noise  
The LM3431 eliminates audible noise problems by  
maintaining constant output voltage regulation during  
LED dimming. Additional features include LED short  
and open protection, fault delay/error flag, cycle by  
cycle current limit, and thermal shutdown for both the  
IC and LED array. The enhanced LM3431A features  
reduced offset voltage for higher accuracy LED  
current.  
Enable Pin  
LED Over-Temperature Shutdown Input  
Thermal Shutdown  
TSSOP-28 Exposed Pad Package  
APPLICATIONS  
Automotive Infotainment Displays  
Small to Medium Format Displays  
TYPICAL APPLICATION CIRCUIT  
Vin: 5V to 36V  
+
VIN  
EN  
LG  
CS  
VCC  
MODE/F  
DIM  
LEDOFF  
ILIM  
PGND  
THM  
PWM Dim  
input  
LM3431  
AFB  
SC  
CFB  
NDRV1  
SNS1  
NDRV2  
SNS2  
NDRV3  
SNS3  
REF  
REFIN  
COMP  
FF  
VCC  
RT  
SS/SH  
DLY  
SGND  
Ch.2/  
Ch.3  
Ch.2  
Ch.3  
1
Please be aware that an important notice concerning availability, standard warranty, and use in critical applications of  
Texas Instruments semiconductor products and disclaimers thereto appears at the end of this data sheet.  
2
All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.  
PRODUCTION DATA information is current as of publication date.  
Products conform to specifications per the terms of the Texas  
Instruments standard warranty. Production processing does not  
necessarily include testing of all parameters.  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
CONNECTION DIAGRAM  
VIN  
PGND  
VCC  
1
2
3
28 EN  
27 DIM  
26 THM  
25 NDRV1  
24 SNS1  
LG  
CS  
4
5
6
7
23 NDRV2  
22 SNS2  
ILIM  
MODE/F  
21 NDRV3  
20 SNS3  
FF  
8
9
RT  
REF 10  
REFIN 11  
COMP 12  
SGND 13  
AFB 14  
19 LEDOFF  
18 SC  
17 CFB  
16 DLY  
15 SS/SH  
Exposed Pad  
Connect to SGND  
Figure 1. 28 Lead Plastic Exposed Pad TSSOP  
Top View  
See Package Number PWP0028A  
PIN DESCRIPTIONS  
Pin No.  
Pin Name  
VIN  
Description  
1
2
3
4
5
6
Power supply input.  
PGND  
VCC  
LG  
Power ground pin. Connect to ground.  
Internal reference voltage output. Bypass to PGND with a minimum 4.7 µF capacitor.  
Boost controller gate drive output. Connect to the NFET gate.  
CS  
Boost controller current sense pin. Connect to the top side of the boost current sense resistor.  
ILIM  
Boost controller current limit adjust pin. Connect a resistor from this pin to the Boost current sense resistor to set  
the current limit threshold.  
7
8
9
MODE/F  
FF  
Dimming mode selection pin. Pull high for digital PWM control. Or connect to a capacitor to GND to set the  
internal dimming frequency.  
Feedforward pin. Connect to a resistor to ground to control the output voltage over/undershoot during PWM  
dimming.  
RT  
Frequency adjust pin. Connect a resistor from this pin to ground to set the operating frequency of the boost  
controller.  
10  
11  
12  
13  
14  
REF  
REFIN  
COMP  
SGND  
AFB  
Reference voltage. Use this pin to provide the REFIN voltage.  
This pin sets the LED current feedback voltage. Connect to a resistor divider from the REF pin.  
Output of the error amplifier. Connect to the compensation network.  
Signal ground pin. Connect to ground.  
Anode feedback pin. The boost controller voltage feedback during LED off time. Connect this pin to a resistor  
divider from the output voltage.  
15  
16  
17  
SS/SH  
DLY  
Soft-start and sample-hold pin. Connect a capacitor from this pin to ground to set the soft-start time.  
Fault delay pin. Connect a capacitor from this pin to ground to set the delay time for shutdown.  
CFB  
Cathode feedback pin. The boost controller voltage feedback. Connect through a diode to the bottom cathode of  
each LED string.  
18  
19  
SC  
LED short circuit detection pin. Connect through a diode to the bottom cathode of each string.  
LEDOFF  
A dual function pin. The LEDOFF signal controls external drivers during PWM dimming. Or connect to ground to  
enable automatic fault restart.  
20  
21  
22  
23  
SNS3  
NDRV3  
SNS2  
Current feedback for channel 3. Connect to the top of the channel 3 current sense resistor.  
Base drive for the channel 3 current regulator. Connect to the NPN base or NFET gate.  
Current feedback for channel 2.  
NDRV2  
Base drive for the channel 2 current regulator.  
2
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
PIN DESCRIPTIONS (continued)  
Pin No.  
24  
Pin Name  
SNS1  
NDRV1  
THM  
Description  
Current feedback for channel 1.  
Base drive for the channel 1 current regulator.  
25  
26  
LED thermal monitor input pin. When pulled below 1.2V, device enters standby mode.  
PWM dimming input pin. Accepts a digital PWM or analog voltage level input to control LED current duty cycle.  
Enable pin. Connect to VIN through a resistor divider to set an external UVLO threshold. Pull low to shutdown.  
Exposed pad. Connect to SGND.  
27  
DIM  
28  
EN  
EP  
These devices have limited built-in ESD protection. The leads should be shorted together or the device placed in conductive foam  
during storage or handling to prevent electrostatic damage to the MOS gates.  
(1)  
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS  
If Military/Aerospace specified devices are required, contact the Texas Instruments Semiconductor Sales Office/  
Distributors for availability and specifications.  
VALUE / UNIT  
VIN  
–0.3V to 37V  
–0.3V to 10V  
–0.3V to 7V  
–0.3V to 7V  
–0.3V to 7V  
–0.3V to 7V  
–0.3V to 7V  
–0.3V to 7V  
–0.3V to 7V  
–0.3V to 7V  
-0.3V to 40V  
–0.3V to 7V  
–0.3V to 7V  
–0.3V to 7V  
–65°C to +150°C  
20sec, 240°C  
75sec, 219°C  
2 kV  
EN  
DIM  
MODE/F  
REFIN  
THM  
DLY  
Voltages from the indicated pins to SGND:  
SNSx  
NDRVx  
CFB  
SC  
AFB  
CS  
VCC  
Storage Temperature  
Infrared  
Soldering Dwell Time, Temperature  
ESD Rating Human Body Model(2)  
Vapor Phase  
(1) Absolute Maximum Ratings are limits beyond which damage to the device may occur. Operating Ratings are conditions under which  
operation of the device is intended to be functional. For ensured specifications and test conditions, see the ELECTRICAL  
CHARACTERISTICS.  
(2) The human body model is a 100pF capacitor discharged through a 1.5 kresistor into each pin.  
(1)  
RECOMMENDED OPERATING CONDITIONS  
VALUE / UNIT  
VIN  
4.5V to 36V  
-40°C to +125°C  
32°C/W  
Junction Temperature Range  
Thermal Resistance (θJA  
Power Dissipation (3), TSSOP-28  
)
(2), TSSOP-28 (0.5W)  
3.1W  
(1) Absolute Maximum Ratings are limits beyond which damage to the device may occur. Operating Ratings are conditions under which  
operation of the device is intended to be functional. For specifications and test conditions, see the ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS.  
(2) The Thermal Resistance specifications are based on a JEDEC standard 4-layer pcb. θJA will vary with board size and copper area.  
(3) The maximum allowable power dissipation is a function of the maximum junction temperature, TJ_MAX, the junction-to-ambient thermal  
resistance, θJA, and the ambient temperature, TA. The maximum allowable power dissipation at any ambient temperature is calculated  
using: PD_MAX = (TJ_MAX – TA)/θJA. The maximum power dissipation is determined using TA = 25°C, and TJ_MAX = 125°C.  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
3
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS  
Specifications in standard type are for TJ = 25°C only, and limits in boldface type apply over the junction temperature (TJ)  
range of -40°C to +125°C. Unless otherwise stated, VIN = 12V. Minimum and Maximum limits are specified through test,  
design, or statistical correlation. Typical values represent the most likely parametric norm at TJ = 25°C, and are provided for  
(1)  
reference purposes only.  
Parameter  
Test Conditions  
Min  
Typ  
Max  
4.85  
Units  
SYSTEM  
IQ  
(2)  
Operating VIN Current  
DIM = 5V  
EN = 1V  
4.0  
3.7  
15  
mA  
mA  
µA  
V
IQ_SB  
Standby mode VIN current  
Shutdown mode VIN Current  
VCC voltage  
IQ_SD  
VCC  
EN = 0V, Vin = 36V  
23  
Iload = 25 mA, Vin = 5.5 to 36V  
4.80  
5
5.24  
VCCILIM  
UVLO  
VCC current limit  
72  
mA  
V
UVLO threshold  
VIN rising, measured at VCC  
4.36  
0.28  
0.75  
4.50  
hysteresis  
V
VEN_ST  
VEN  
Enable pin Standby threshold  
Enable pin On threshold  
hysteresis  
EN rising  
EN rising  
V
1.185 1.230 1.275  
V
115  
165  
mV  
LINEAR CURRENT CONTROLLER  
VREF  
Reference Voltage  
IREF < 300 µA  
2.45  
2.5  
14  
2.55  
80  
V
IREFIN  
REFIN input bias current  
REFIN = 300 mV  
5.5V < VIN < 36V  
nA  
ΔVREF / ΔVIN Line regulation  
0.000  
1
%/V  
VNDRV  
NDRVx drive voltage capability  
INDRVx = 5 mA  
3.7  
6
V
INDRV_SK  
INDRV_SC  
ISNS  
NDRVx drive sink current  
NDRVX = 0.9V  
4
8
20  
30  
+5  
+3  
5.5  
6
mA  
mA  
µA  
NDRVx drive source current  
SNSx input bias current  
NDRVX = 0.9V  
10  
15  
20  
SNSx = 300 mV  
VOS  
SNSx amp offset voltage  
REFIN = 300 mV (LM3431)  
REFIN = 300 mV (LM3431A)  
REFIN = 300 mV, 25°C (LM3431)  
-5  
-3  
mV  
mV  
mV  
mV  
VOS  
SNSx amp offset voltage  
(3)  
(3)  
VOS_DELTA  
VOS_DELTA  
Ch. To Ch. offset voltage mismatch  
Ch. To Ch. offset voltage mismatch  
REFIN = 300 mV, -40°C to +125°C  
(LM3431)  
(3)  
(3)  
VOS_DELTA  
VOS_DELTA  
Ch. To Ch. offset voltage mismatch  
Ch. To Ch. offset voltage mismatch  
REFIN = 300 mV, 25°C (LM3431A)  
3.5  
mV  
mV  
REFIN = 300 mV, -40°C to +125°C  
(LM3431A)  
4
bw  
SNSx amp bandwidth  
LEDOFF voltage  
DIM threshold  
At unity gain  
DIM low  
2
5
MHz  
V
VLEDOFF  
VDIM  
MODE/F > 4V  
1.9  
0.8  
0.4  
100  
90  
2.3  
V
hysteresis  
V
(4)  
TDIM  
Minimum internal DIM pulse width  
DIM to NDRV delay time  
DIM to NDRV delay time  
MODE/F threshold  
µs  
ns  
ns  
V
DIMDLY_R  
DIMDLY_F  
THMODE/F  
IMODE/F  
DIM rising  
DIM falling  
For Digital Dimming control  
3.8  
40  
MODE/F source/sink current  
MODE/F minimum voltage  
MODE/F peak voltage  
uA  
V
VMODE_L  
VMODE_H  
Analog dimming mode  
Analog dimming mode  
0.37  
2.5  
V
(1) All room temperature limits are 100% production tested. All limits at temperature extremes are specified through correlation using  
standard Statistical Quality Control (SQC) methods. All limits are used to calculate Average Outgoing Quality Level (AOQL).  
(2) IQ specifies the current into the VIN pin and applies to non-switching operation.  
(3) VOS_DELTA specifies the maximum absolute difference between the offset of any pair of SNS amplifiers.  
(4) The minimum DIM pulse width is an internal signal. Any pulse width may be applied to the DIM pin or generated via analog dimming  
mode. A pulse width less than 0.4 µs will be internally extended to 0.4 µs.  
4
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)  
Specifications in standard type are for TJ = 25°C only, and limits in boldface type apply over the junction temperature (TJ)  
range of -40°C to +125°C. Unless otherwise stated, VIN = 12V. Minimum and Maximum limits are specified through test,  
design, or statistical correlation. Typical values represent the most likely parametric norm at TJ = 25°C, and are provided for  
reference purposes only. (1)  
Parameter  
Test Conditions  
Min  
Typ  
Max  
Units  
PROTECTION  
VSC_SHORT  
VSC_OPEN  
IDLY_SC  
IDLY_SK  
VDLY  
SC high threshold  
LED short circuit fault, SC rising  
LED open circuit fault, SC rising  
DLY = 1.0V  
5.7  
3.16  
39  
6
6.2  
3.87  
73  
V
V
SC open clamp voltage  
DLY source current  
3.50  
57  
µA  
µA  
V
DLY sink current  
DLY = 1.0V  
1.8  
2.8  
350  
1.6  
1.23  
9.6  
40  
DLY threshold voltage  
DLY reset threshold voltage  
DLY blank time  
DLY rising  
2.40  
1.19  
3.16  
1.27  
VDLY_reset  
TDLY_BLK  
VTHM  
DLY falling  
mV  
µs  
V
DIM rising  
THM threshold  
ITHM  
THM hysteresis current  
ILIM max source current  
AFB overvoltage threshold  
AFB undervoltage threshold  
Thermal shutdown threshold  
THM = 1V  
µA  
µA  
V
IILIM  
COMP = 2.0V  
31  
46  
VAFB_max  
VAFB_UVP  
TSD  
1.87  
0.73  
2.0  
0.85  
160  
2.22  
0.98  
AFB falling  
V
°C  
BOOST CONTROLLER  
VCFB CFB voltage  
ICFB  
DIM high  
DIM high  
1.60  
35  
1.71  
50  
1.82  
65  
V
µA  
CFB source current  
CFBTC  
CFB temperature coefficient  
-2.6  
0.001  
19  
mV/°C  
%/V  
µA  
ΔVCFB / ΔVIN CFB Line regulation  
5.5V < VIN < 36V  
At EN going high  
At end of soft-start cycle  
RRT = 34.8 kΩ  
ISS/SH  
VSS_END  
VRT  
SS/SH source current  
SS/SH voltage  
13  
24  
1.80  
1.85  
1.22  
700  
200  
1000  
170  
85  
1.90  
V
RT voltage  
V
FSW  
Switching Frequency  
Minimum Switching Frequency  
Maximum Switching Frequency  
Minimum on time  
RRT = 34.8 kΩ  
651  
180  
900  
749  
220  
kHz  
RRT = 130 kΩ  
RRT = 22.6 kΩ  
1100  
230  
Ton_min  
DMAX  
ns  
%
Maximum duty cycle  
80  
ILIMgm  
Vslope  
ICOMP_SC  
ICOMP_SK  
EAgm  
ILIM amplifier transconductance  
Slope compensation  
COMP to ILIM gain  
85  
umho  
mV  
µA  
µA  
umho  
Peak voltage per cycle  
75  
COMP source current  
COMP sink current  
VCOMP = 1.2V, AFB = 0.5V  
VCOMP =1.2V, AFB = 1.5V  
CFB to COMP gain, DIM high  
Source Current = 200 mA, VIN = 5.5V  
Sink Current = 200 mA  
155  
150  
230  
6.4  
Error amplifier transconductance  
Gate Drive On Resistance  
RLG  
2.2  
ILG  
Driver Output Current  
Source, LG = 2.5V, VIN = 5.5V  
Sink, LG = 2.5V  
0.35  
0.70  
A
A
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
5
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS  
Unless otherwise specified the following conditions apply: VIN = 12V, TJ = 25°C.  
VREF vs. Temperature  
CFB Voltage vs. Temperature  
2.53  
2.52  
2.51  
2.50  
2.49  
2.48  
2.47  
2.46  
2.50  
2.25  
2.00  
1.75  
1.50  
1.25  
1.00  
-40 -20  
0
20 40 60 80 100 120 140  
-40 -20  
0
20 40 60 80 100 120 140  
TEMPERATURE (°C)  
TEMPERATURE (°C)  
Figure 2.  
Figure 3.  
SNS 1, 2, 3 VOS vs Temperature (LM3431 or LM3431A)  
Delta VOS Max vs Temperature (LM3431 or LM3431A)  
1.5  
3.0  
1.0  
0.5  
0
2.5  
2.0  
1.5  
1.0  
-0.5  
-1.0  
-1.5  
0.5  
0
-40 -20  
0
20 40 60 80 100 120 140  
-40 -20  
0
20 40 60 80 100 120 140  
TEMPERATURE (°C)  
TEMPERATURE (°C)  
Figure 4.  
Figure 5.  
IQ_SB vs Temperature  
IQ_SD vs Temperature  
16.0  
3.80  
15.5  
15.0  
14.5  
14.0  
13.5  
13.0  
3.70  
3.60  
3.50  
3.40  
3.30  
-40 -20  
0
20 40 60 80 100 120 140  
-40 -20  
0
20 40 60 80 100 120 140  
TEMPERATURE (°C)  
TEMPERATURE (°C)  
Figure 6.  
Figure 7.  
6
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS (continued)  
Unless otherwise specified the following conditions apply: VIN = 12V, TJ = 25°C.  
Efficiency vs. Input Voltage LED Current = 140 mA x 3, LED  
Normalized Switching Frequency vs. Temperature (700 kHz)  
Vf = 25V  
1.04  
100  
100%  
dimming duty  
1.02  
1.00  
0.98  
0.96  
0.94  
90  
50%  
80  
10%  
70  
60  
50  
5
9
13  
17  
21  
-40 -20  
0
20 40 60 80 100 120 140  
TEMPERATURE (°C)  
INPUT VOLTAGE (V)  
Figure 8.  
Figure 9.  
Line Transient Response  
Dimming Transient Response  
Vout  
100 mV/Div  
ILED  
5 mA/Div  
Vout  
200 mV/Div  
Vsw  
20V/Div  
VIN  
5V/Div  
ILED  
200 mA/Div  
400 ms/DIV  
200 ms/DIV  
Figure 10.  
Figure 11.  
LED Ripple Current  
NDRV Waveforms  
ILED  
5 mA/Div  
ILED  
50 mA/Div  
Vcathode  
100 mV/Div  
NDRV (FET)  
2V/Div  
REFIN  
10 mV/Div  
NDRV (NPN)  
1V/Div  
DIM  
5V/Div  
400 ns/DIV  
1 ms/DIV  
Figure 12.  
Figure 13.  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
7
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
BLOCK DIAGRAM  
SC  
DLY  
FF  
THM  
3.8V  
60 uA  
CFB  
LED on  
open  
short  
-
+
LED on  
override  
FF step scaling  
+
-
VIN  
blank  
time  
ovp/uvp  
CFB fault  
6V  
CS  
2 uA  
vin  
Linear Reg  
LED  
ref  
ilimit  
vcc  
on  
ff  
+
-
ramp  
fault T1, T2  
+
-
2.8V  
R
S
Q
VCC  
LG  
I limit  
-
latch off/restart  
+
and COMP  
clamp  
set_clk  
logic  
fault T3  
uvlo  
PGND  
+
-
ILIM  
Restart Mode  
sd  
ff  
TSD  
EN  
RT  
+
-
COMP  
EA  
uvp  
ovp  
ramp  
A
B
+
-
CFB  
AFB  
+
-
AFB sense  
set_clk  
4V  
A
1.7V  
-
+
MODE/F  
B
LED on = A  
SS/SH  
-
+
fault  
CFB check  
ss  
ref  
DIM  
SS/SH logic  
Restart Mode  
CFB fault  
SGND  
LED on  
LEDOFF  
REFIN  
SNS3  
NDRV3  
SNS2  
NDRV2  
SNS1  
NDRV1  
REF  
8
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
External LED Array  
L1  
D1  
Vin  
VA  
+
External  
Thermistor  
C2  
C1  
R19  
THM  
Q1  
R1  
VCC  
VIN  
EN  
LG  
CS  
C9  
R18  
C8  
R2  
Rth  
R4  
EN  
DIM  
R3  
ILIM  
PGND  
THM  
R16  
LEDOFF  
DIM  
GND  
RMODE  
LM3431  
MODE/F  
REF  
VCC  
C5  
R8  
R7  
THM  
Rhys  
R17  
VC3  
VC4  
AFB  
VC1  
D2-5  
VC2  
REFIN  
COMP  
SC  
R9  
C4  
D6-9  
CFB  
C13  
REFIN  
FF  
NDRV1  
SNS1  
Op1  
VCC  
RT  
+
-
NDRV2  
SNS2  
Q2  
C3  
SS/SH  
R15  
Q6  
R6  
Rff  
Q3  
NDRV3  
SNS3  
DLY  
LEDOFF  
SGND  
EP  
C6  
Q4  
C7  
Rrestart  
C15  
R14  
R11  
R12  
R13  
R10  
VCC  
Figure 14. Typical Application Schematic  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
9
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
OPERATION DESCRIPTION  
The LM3431 combines a boost controller and 3 constant current regulator controllers in one device. To simplify  
the description, these two blocks will be described separately as Boost Controller and LED Current Regulator. All  
descriptions and component numbers refer to the Figure 14 schematic. The LED bottom cathode nodes (VC1 –  
VC4) are referred to simply as the cathode.  
BOOST CONTROLLER  
The LM3431 is a current-mode, PWM boost controller. Although the LM3431 may be operated in either  
continuous or discontinuous conduction mode, the following guidelines are designed for continuous conduction  
operation. This mode of operation gives lower output ripple and better LED current regulation.  
In continuous conduction mode (when the inductor current never reaches zero), the boost regulator operates in  
two cycles. In the first cycle of operation, the NFET is turned on and current ramps up and is storing energy in  
the inductor. During this cycle, diode D1 is reverse biased and load current is supplied by the output capacitors -  
C8 and C9 in Figure 14.  
In the second cycle, the NFET is off and the diode is forward biased. Inductor current is transferred to the load  
and output capacitor. The ratio of these two cycles determines the output voltage and is expressed as D or D’:  
VIN  
D‘ = 1-D =  
VOUT  
(1)  
where D is the duty cycle of the switch.  
VIN  
D = 1 -  
VOUT  
(2)  
Maximum duty cycle is limited to 85% typically.  
As input voltage approaches the nominal output voltage, duty cycle and switch on time are reduced. When the  
on time reaches minimum, pulse skipping will occur. This increases the output ripple voltage and can cause  
regulator saturation and poor LED current regulation. If input voltage equals or exceeds the set output voltage,  
switching will stop and the output voltage will become unregulated. This will force an increase in the LED  
cathode voltage and NPN regulator power dissipation. Although this condition can be tolerated, it is not  
recommended.  
Therefore, input voltage should be restricted to keep on time above the minimum (see Switching Frequency  
section) and at least 1V below the set output voltage.  
ENABLE and UVLO  
The EN pin is a dual function pin combining both enable and programmable undervoltage lockout (UVLO). The  
shutdown threshold is 0.75V. When EN is pulled below this threshold, the LM3431 will shutdown and IQ will be  
reduced to 15 µA typically. The typical EN pin UVLO threshold is 1.23V. When the EN voltage is above this  
threshold, the LM3431 will begin softstart. Below the UVLO threshold, the LM3431 will remain in standby mode.  
A resistor divider, shown as R1 and R2 in Figure 14, can be used to program the UVLO threshold at the EN pin.  
This feature is used to shutdown the IC at an input voltage higher than the internal VCC UVLO threshold of 4.4V.  
The EN UVLO should be set just below the minimum input voltage for the application.  
The internal UVLO is monitored at the VCC pin. When VCC is below the threshold of 4.4V, the LM3431 is in  
standby mode (See VCC section).  
10  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
Soft-Start  
The SS/SH pin is a dual function softstart and sample/hold pin. The SH function is described in sections below.  
When the EN pin is pulled above the programmable UVLO threshold and VCC rises above the internal UVLO  
threshold, the SS/SH pin begins sourcing current. This charges the SS cap (C6) and the SS pin voltage in turn  
controls the output voltage ramp-up, sensed via the AFB pin. The softstart capacitor is calculated as shown  
below, where 20 µA is the typical softstart source current:  
tss x 19 mA  
1.85V  
C6 =  
(3)  
The LED current regulators are held off until softstart is completed. During softstart, current limit is active and the  
CFB pin is monitored for a cathode short fault (See LED Protection section). When the SS/SH voltage reaches  
1.85V, the current regulators are activated, LED current begins flowing, and output voltage control is transferred  
to the CFB pin. Typical startup is shown below in Figure 15.  
ILED  
100 mA/Div  
Vout  
10V/Div  
VSS/SH  
1V/Div  
VEN  
5V/Div  
4 ms/DIV  
Figure 15. Typical Startup Waveforms (From power-on, DIM = high)  
Output Voltage, OVP, and SH  
The LM3431 boost controls the LED cathode voltage in order to drive the LED strings with sufficient headroom at  
optimum efficiency. When the LED strings are on, voltage is regulated to 1.7V (typical) at the CFB pin, which is  
one diode Vf above the LED cathode voltage. Therefore, when the LED strings are on, the output voltage (LED  
anodes, shown as VA in Figure 14) will vary according to the Vf of the LED string, while the LED cathode voltage  
will be regulated via the CFB pin.  
The AFB pin is used to regulate the output voltage when the LED strings are off, which is during startup and  
dimming off cycles. During LED-off times, the cathode voltage is not regulated.  
AFB should set the initial output voltage to at least 1.0V (CFB voltage minus one diode drop) above the  
maximum LED string forward voltage. This ensures that there is enough headroom to drive the LED strings at  
startup and keeps the SS/SH voltage below its maximum. The AFB pin voltage at the end of softstart is 1.85V  
typically, which determines the ratio of the feedback resistors according to the following equation:  
VOUT(MAX) - 1.85V  
R19 = R18 x =  
1.85V  
(4)  
The AFB resistors also set the output over-voltage (OVP) threshold. The OVP threshold is monitored during both  
LED on and LED off states and protects against any over voltage condition, including all LEDs open (See Open  
LED section).The OVP threshold at Vout can be calculated as follows:  
2.0 x (R19+ R18)  
VOVP  
=
R18  
(5)  
11  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
Because OVP has a fixed 2.0V threshold sensed at AFB, a larger value for R19 will increase the OVP threshold  
of the output voltage. During an open LED fault, the output voltage will increase by 2.6V typically (see LED  
Protection section). Therefore, at least this much headroom above the nominal output voltage is required to avoid  
a false OVP error. Note that because of the high output voltage setting at the end of softstart, a brief open LED  
error may occur during the short time it takes for the cathode voltage to drop to its nominal level. Figure 15  
shows a typical startup waveform, where both Vout and the SS/SH voltage reach their peak before the LED  
current turns on. Once LED current starts, SS/SH and Vout drop to the nominal operating point.  
While the LEDs are on, the AFB voltage is sampled to the SS/SH pin. During LED-off time, this SS/SH voltage is  
used as the reference voltage to regulate the output. This allows the output voltage to remain stable between on  
and off dimming cycles, even though there may be wide variation in the LED string forward voltage. The SS/SH  
pin has a maximum voltage of 1.9V. Therefore, the AFB voltage when the LEDs are on must be below this limit  
for proper regulation. This will be ensured by setting the AFB resistors as described above. During LED-off  
cycles, there is minimal loading on the output, which forces the boost controller into pulse skipping mode. In this  
mode, switching is stopped completely, or for multiple cycles until the AFB feedback voltage falls below the  
SS/SH reference level.  
Switching Frequency  
The switching frequency can be set between 200 kHz and 1 MHz with a resistor from the RT pin to ground. The  
frequency setting resistor (R6 in Figure 14) can be determined according to the following empirically derived  
equation:  
-1.06  
RT = 35403 x fSW  
Where  
fSW is in kHz  
the RT result is in kohm.  
(6)  
1200  
1000  
800  
600  
400  
200  
0
0
20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160  
(kW)  
R
T
Figure 16. Switching Frequency vs RT  
For a given application, the maximum switching frequency is limited by the minimum on time. When the LM3431  
reaches its minimum on-time, pulse skipping will occur and output ripple will increase. To avoid this, set the  
operating frequency below the following maximum setting:  
D
fSW(MAX)  
=
tON(MIN)  
(7)  
Inductor Selection  
Figure 17 shows how the inductor current, IL, varies during a switching cycle.  
12  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
Vout  
200 mV/Div  
IL  
500 mA/Div  
Vsw  
10V/Div  
400 ns/DIV  
Figure 17. Inductor Current, SW Voltage, and VOUT  
The important quantities in determining a proper inductance value are IL(AVE) (the average inductor current) and  
ΔiL (the peak to peak inductor current ripple). If ΔiL is larger than 2 x IL(AVE), the inductor current will drop to zero  
for a portion of the cycle and the converter will operate in discontinuous conduction mode. If ΔiL is smaller than 2  
x IL, the inductor current will stay above zero and the converter will operate in continuous conduction mode.  
To determine the minimum L, first calculate the IL(AVE) at both minimum and maximum input voltage:  
IOUT  
IL(AVE)  
=
D‘  
Where  
IOUT is the sum of all LED string currents at 100% dimming  
(8)  
IL(AVE) will be highest at the minimum input voltage. Then determine the minimum L based on ΔiL with the  
following equation:  
VIN(MAX) x D(MIN)  
L(MIN)  
=
DiL x fSW  
(9)  
A good starting point is to set ΔiL to 150% of the minimum IL(AVE) and calculate using that value. The maximum  
recommended ΔiL is 200% of IL(AVE) to maintain continuous current in normal operation. In general a smaller  
inductor (higher ripple current) will give a better dimming response due to the higher dI/dt. This is shown  
graphically below.  
Vcathode  
2V/Div  
ILED  
100 mA/Div  
IL  
500 mA/Div  
1 ms/DIV  
Figure 18. Inductor Current During Dimming  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
13  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
The resulting peak to peak inductor current is:  
VIN x D  
DiL =  
L x fSW  
(10)  
(11)  
And the resulting peak inductor current is:  
DiL  
2
ILPEAK = IL(AVE)  
+
Peak inductor current will occur at minimum VIN.  
The inductor must be rated to handle both the average current and peak current, which is the same as the peak  
switch current. As switching frequency increases, less inductance is required. However, some minimum  
inductance value is required to ensure stability at duty cycles greater than 50%. The minimum inductance  
required for stability can be calculated as:  
R3 x (VOUT - 2 x VIN(MIN)  
)
L(MIN)  
=
fSW x 75 mV x 2  
Where  
R3 is the sense resistor determined in the next section.  
(12)  
Although the inductor must be large enough to meet both the stability and the ΔiL requirements, a value close to  
minimum will typically give the best performance.  
Current Sensing  
Switch current is sensed via the sense resistor, R3, while the switch is on and the inductor is charging. The  
sensed current is used to control switching and to monitor current limit. To optimize the control signal, a typical  
sense voltage between 50mV and 200mV is recommended. The sense resistor can therefore be calculated by  
the following equation:  
50 mV  
IL(AVE_MIN)  
200 mV  
Ç R3 Ç IL(AVE_MAX)  
(13)  
Since IL(AVE) will vary with input voltage, R3 should be determined based on the full input voltage range, although  
the resulting value may extend somewhat outside the recommended range.  
Current Limit  
Current limit occurs when the voltage across the sense resistor (measured at the CS pin) equals the current limit  
threshold voltage. The current limit threshold is set by R4. This value can be calculated as follows:  
(IL(LIM) x R3) + (D x 75 mV)  
R4 =  
40 mA  
(14)  
Where 40 µA is the typical ILIM source current in current limit and ILlim is the peak (not average) inductor current  
which triggers current limit.  
To avoid false triggering, current limit should be set safely above the peak inductor current level. However, the  
current limit resistor also has some effect on the control loop as seen in the block diagram. For this reason, R4  
should not be set much higher than necessary. When current limit is activated, the NFET will be turned off  
immediately until the next cycle. Current limit will typically result in a drop in output and cathode voltage. This will  
cause the COMP pin voltage to increase to maximum, which will trigger a fault and start the DLY pin source  
current (see LED Protection section). The LM3431 will continue to operate in current limit with reduced on-time  
until the DLY pin has reached its threshold. However, the current limit cannot reduce the on-time below the  
minimum specification.  
In a boost switcher, there is a direct current path between input and output. Therefore, although the LM3431 will  
shutdown in a shorted output condition, there are no means to limit the current flowing from input to output.  
Note that if the maximum duty cycle of 85% (typical) is reached, the LM3431 will behave as though current limit  
has occurred.  
14  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
VCC  
The VCC pin is the output of the internal voltage regulator. It must be bypassed to PGND with a minimum 4.7 µF  
ceramic capacitor. Although VCC is capable of supplying up to 72 mA, external loads will increase the power  
dissipation and temperature rise within the LM3431. See the TSD section for more detail. Above 72 mA, the VCC  
voltage will drop due to current limit. Since the UVLO threshold is monitored at this pin, UVLO may be enabled  
by a VCC over current event.  
For input voltages between 4.5V and 5.5V, connect VCC to VIN through a 4.7resistor. This will hold VCC  
above the UVLO threshold and allow operation at input voltages as low as 4.5V. It may also be necessary to add  
additional VIN and VCC capacitance for low VIN operation.  
Diode Selection  
The average current through D1 is the average load current (total LED current), and the peak current through the  
diode is the peak inductor current. Therefore, the diode should be rated to handle more than the peak inductor  
current which was calculated earlier. The diode must also be capable of handling the peak reverse voltage,  
which is equal to the output voltage (LED Anode voltage). To improve efficiency, a low Vf Schottky diode is  
recommended. Diode power loss is calculated as:  
PDIODE = Vf x IOUT  
(15)  
NFET Selection  
The drive pin of the LM3431 boost switcher, LG, must be connected to the gate of an external NFET. The NFET  
drain is connected to the inductor and the source is connected to the sense resistor. The LG pin will drive the  
gate at 5V typically.  
The critical parameters for selection of a MOSFET are:  
1. Maximum drain current rating, ID(MAX)  
2. Maximum drain to source voltage, VDS(MAX)  
3. On-resistance, RDS(ON)  
4. Total gate charge, Qg  
In the on-state, the switch current is equal to the inductor current. Therefore, the maximum drain current, ID, must  
be rated higher than the current limit setting. The average switch current (ID(AVE)) is given in the equation below:  
ID(AVE) = IL(AVE) x D  
(16)  
The off-state voltage of the NFET is approximately equal to the output voltage plus the diode Vf. Therefore,  
VDS(MAX) of the NFET must be rated higher than the maximum output voltage. The power losses in the NFET can  
be separated into conduction losses and switching losses. The conduction loss, Pcond, is the I2R loss across the  
NFET. The maximum conduction loss is given by:  
2
PCOND = RDS(ON) x DMAX x IL(AVE)  
where  
DMAX is the maximum duty cycle for the given application  
RDS(ON) is the on resistance at high temperature  
(17)  
wThe switching losses can be roughly calculated by the following equation:  
fSW x IL(AVE) x VOUT x (tON + tOFF  
)
PSW  
=
2
Where  
tON and tOFF are the NFET turn-on and turn-off times.  
(18)  
Power is also consumed in the LM3431 in the form of gate charge losses, Pg. These losses can be calculated  
using the formula:  
Pg = fSW x Qg x VIN  
where  
Qg is the NFET total gate charge  
(19)  
15  
Pg adds to the total power dissipation of the LM3431 (See TSD section).  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
Fast switching FETs can cause noise spikes at the SW node which may affect performance. To reduce these  
spikes a drive resistor up to 10can be placed between LG and the NFET gate.  
Input Capacitor Selection  
Because the inductor is at the input of a boost converter, the input current waveform is continuous and triangular.  
The inductor ensures that the input capacitor sees relatively low ripple currents. The rms current in the input  
capacitor is given by:  
DiL  
12  
IRMS_IN  
=
(20)  
The input capacitor must be capable of handling this rms current. Input ripple voltage increases with increasing  
ESR as well as decreasing input capacitance. A typical value of 10 µF will work well for most applications. For  
low input voltages, additional input capacitance may be required to prevent tripping the UVLO. Additionally, a  
ceramic capacitor of 1 µF or larger should be placed close to the VIN pin to prevent noise from interfering with  
normal device operation.  
Output Capacitor Selection  
The output capacitor in a boost converter provides all the output current when the switch is on and the inductor is  
charging. As a result, the output capacitor sees relatively large ripple currents. The output capacitor must be  
capable of handling more than the rms current, which can be estimated as:  
D
D‘2  
DiL2  
12  
IOUT2 x  
Dx  
=
+
IRMS_OUT  
(21)  
Additionally, the ESR of the output capacitor affects the output ripple and has an effect on transient response  
during dimming. For low output ripple voltage, low ESR ceramic capacitors are recommended. Although not a  
critical parameter, excessive output ripple can affect LED current.  
The output capacitance requirement is somewhat arbitrary and depends mostly on dimming frequency. Although  
a minimum value of 4 µF is recommended, at lower dimming frequencies, the longer LED-off times will typically  
require more capacitance to reduce output voltage transients.  
When ceramic capacitors are used, audible noise may be generated during LED dimming. Audible noise  
increases with the amplitude of output voltage transients. To minimize this noise, use the smallest case sizes and  
if possible, use a larger number of capacitors in parallel to reduce the case size of each. Output transients are  
also minimized via the FF pin (See Setting FF section). Setting the dimming frequency above 18 kHz or below  
500 Hz will also help eliminate the audible effects of output voltage transients.  
When selecting an output capacitor, always consider the effective capacitance at the output voltage, which can  
be less than 50% of the capacitance specified at 0V. Use this effective capacitance value for the compensation  
calculations below.  
Compensation  
Once the output capacitor is selected, the control loop characteristics and compensation can be determined. The  
COMP pin is provided to ensure stable operation and optimum transient performance over a wide range of  
applications. The following equations define the control-to-output or power stage of the loop:  
KD  
fP1  
=
2p x RL x COUT  
1
fZ1  
=
2p x ESR x COUT  
VOUT x (D‘)2  
RHPZ =  
2p x IOUT x L  
fSW  
fpn =  
2
(22)  
Where RL is the load resistance corresponding to LED current, and Kf is calculated as shown:  
16  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
VOUT  
IOUT  
RL =  
D‘3 x RL  
D‘2 x 75 mV  
+
KD = 1+  
L x fSW x 2  
IOUT x R3  
(23)  
Since the control-to-output response will shift with input voltage, the compensation should be calculated at both  
the minimum and maximum input voltage.  
The zero created by the ESR of the output capacitor, fz1, is generally at a very high frequency if the ESR is small.  
If low ESR capacitors are used fz1 can be neglected and if high ESR capacitors are used, CC2 can be added (see  
below).  
A current mode control boost regulator has an inherent right half plane zero, RHPz. This has the effect of a zero  
in the gain plot, causing a +20dB/decade increase, but has the effect of a pole in the phase, subtracting 90° in  
the phase plot. This can cause instability if the control loop is influenced by this zero. To ensure the RHP zero  
does not cause instability, the control loop must be designed to have a bandwidth of less than one third the  
frequency of the RHP zero. The regulator also has a double pole, fpn, at one half the switching frequency. The  
control loop bandwidth must be lower than 1/5 of fpn. A typical control-to-output gain response is shown in  
Figure 19 below.  
fpn  
fz1  
fp1  
RHPz  
FREQUENCY  
Figure 19. Typical Control-to-Output Bode Plot  
Once the control-to-output response has been determined, the compensation components are selected. A series  
combination of Rc and Cc is recommended for the compensation network, shown as R9 and C4 in the typical  
application circuit. The series combination of Rc and Cc introduces a pole-zero pair according to the following  
equations:  
1
fZC  
=
2p x RC x CC  
1
fPC  
=
2p x RO x CC  
where  
RO is the output impedance of the error amplifier, approximately 500 k.  
(24)  
The initial value of RC is determined based on the required crossover frequency from the following equations  
using the maximum input voltage:  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
17  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
B
RC =  
EAgm x ILIMgm x R4  
fCROSS  
B =  
fP1 x Acm  
VIN  
Acm  
=
R3 x IOUT x KD  
Where  
B is the mid-frequency compensation gain (in v/v)  
R4 is the current limit setting resistor  
Acm is the control-output DC gain  
the gm values are given in the ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS table  
(25)  
Fcross is the maximum allowable crossover frequency, based on the calculated values of fpn and RHPz. Any Rc  
value lower than the value calculated above can be used and will ensure a low enough crossover frequency. Rc  
should set the B value typically between 0.01v/v and 0.1v/v (-20db to -40db). Larger values of RC will give a  
higher loop bandwidth.  
However, because the dynamic response of the LM3431 is enhanced by the FF pin (See Setting FF section) the  
RC value can be set conservatively. The typical range for RC is between 300ohm and 3 k. Next, select a value  
for Cc to set the compensation zero, fzc, to a frequency greater or equal to the maximum calculated value of fp1  
(fzc cancels the power pole, fp1). Since an fzc value of up to a half decade above fp1 is acceptable, choose a  
standard capacitor value smaller than calculated. Confirm that fpc, the dominant low frequency pole in the control  
loop, is less than 100 Hz and below fp1. The typical range for CC is between 10 nF and 100 nF. The  
compensation zero-pole pair is shown graphically below, along with the total control loop, which is the sum of the  
compensation and output-control response. Since the calculated crossover frequency is an approximation,  
stability should always be verified on the bench.  
COMP  
LOOP  
0
fpc  
fzc  
FREQUENCY (kHz)  
RHPz  
Figure 20. Typical Compensation and Total Loop Bode Plots  
When using an output capacitor with a high ESR value, another pole, fpc2, may be introduced to cancel the zero  
created by the ESR. This is accomplished by adding another capacitor, CC2, shown as C13 in the Figure 14. The  
pole should be placed at the same frequency as fz1. This pole can be calculated as:  
1
fPC2  
=
2p x CC2 x (RC // RO)  
(26)  
18  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
To ensure this equation is valid, and that CC2 can be used without negatively impacting the effects of RC and CC,  
fpc2 must be at least 10 times greater than fzc.  
LED CURRENT REGULATOR  
Setting LED Current  
LED current is independently regulated in each of 3 strings by regulating the voltage at the SNS pins. Each SNS  
pin is connected to a sense resistor, shown in the typical application schematic as R10 - R13. The sense resistor  
value is calculated as follows:  
REFIN  
RSNS  
=
ILED + INDRV  
Where  
ILED is the current in each LED string  
REFIN is the regulated voltage at the REFIN pin  
INDRV is the NPN base drive current  
(27)  
If using NFETs, INDRV can be ignored. A minimum REFIN voltage of 100 mV is required, and 200mV to 300mV  
is recommended for most applications. The REFIN voltage is set with a resistor divider connected to the REF  
pin, shown as R7 and R8 in the typical application schematic. The resistor values are calculated as follows:  
2.5V - REFIN  
R7 = R8 x  
REFIN  
(28)  
The sum of R7 and R8 should be approximately 100k to avoid excessive loading on the REF pin.  
NDRV  
The NDRV pins drive the base of the external NPN or N-channel MOSFET current regulators. Each pin is  
capable of driving up to 15 mA of base current typically. Therefore, NPN devices with sufficient gain must be  
selected. The required NDRV current can be calculated from the following equation, where β is the NPN  
transistor gain.  
ILED  
INDRV  
=
b
(29)  
If NFETs are used, the NDRV current can be ignored. NPN transistors should be selected based on speed and  
power handling capability. A fast NPN with short rise time will give the best dimming response. However, if the  
rise time is too fast, some ringing may occur in the LED current. This ringing can be improved with a resistor in  
series with the NDRV pins. The NPNs must be able to handle a power equal to ILED x NPN voltage. Note that the  
NPN voltage can be as high as approximately 5.5V in a fault condition. The NDRV pins have a limited slew rate  
capability which can increase the turn-on delay time when driving NFETs. This delay increases the minimum  
dimming on-time and can affect the dimming linearity at high dimming frequencies. Low VGS threshold NFETs are  
recommended to ensure that they will turn fully on within the required time. At dimming frequencies above 10  
kHz, NPN transistors are recommended for the best performance.  
CFB and SC Diodes  
The bottom of each LED string is connected to the CFB and SC pins through diodes as shown in Figure 14. The  
CFB pin receives voltage feedback from the lowest cathode voltage. The other string cathode voltages will vary  
above the regulated CFB voltage. The actual cathode voltage on these strings will depend on the LED forward  
voltages. This ensures that the lowest cathode voltage (highest Vf) will be regulated with enough headroom for  
the NPN regulator. The SC pin monitors for LED fault conditions and limits the maximum cathode voltage (See  
LED Protection section). In this way, each LED string’s cathode is maintained within a window between minimum  
headroom and fault condition.  
Both the CFB and SC diodes must be rated to at least 100 µA, and the CFB diode should have a reverse voltage  
rating higher than VOUT. With these requirements in mind, it is best to use the smallest possible case size in  
order to minimize diode capacitance which can slow the LED current rise and fall times.  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
19  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
Dimming  
The LM3431 is compatible with both analog and digital LED dimming signals. The MODE/F pin is used to select  
analog or digital mode. When MODE/F is pulled above 3.8V, digital mode is enabled and a PWM signal up to 25  
kHz can be applied to the DIM pin. In this mode, the LED current regulators will be active when DIM is above 2V  
(typical) and inactive when DIM is pulled below 1.1V (typical). Although any pulse width may be used at the DIM  
pin, 0.4 µs is the minimum LED on time (in either digital or analog mode). This limits the minimum dimming duty  
cycle at high dimming frequencies. For example, at 20 kHz, the dimming duty cycle is limited to 0.8% minimum.  
At lower dimming frequencies, the dimming duty cycle can be much lower and the minimum depends on the  
application conditions including the FF setting (see Setting FF section). In analog dimming mode, the MODE/F  
pin is used to set the PWM dimming frequency, and duty cycle is controlled by varying the analog voltage level at  
the DIM pin. To operate in analog mode, connect a capacitor from MODE/F to ground, shown as C5 in the  
typical application (without the pull-up resistor installed). The dimming frequency is set according to the following  
equation:  
40 mA  
2 x fDIM x 2.13  
C5 =  
(30)  
In analog mode, the MODE/F pin will generate a triangle wave with a peak of 2.5V and minimum of 0.37V. The  
DIM pin voltage is compared to the MODE/F voltage to create an internal PWM dimming signal whose duty cycle  
is proportional to the DIM voltage. When the DIM voltage is above 2.5V, the duty cycle is 100%. Duty cycle will  
vary linearly with DIM voltage as shown in Figure 21. Typical analog dimming waveforms are shown below in  
Figure 22.  
100  
80  
60  
40  
20  
0
0.3  
0.9  
1.5  
2.1  
2.7  
DIM (V)  
Figure 21. Analog Mode Dimming Duty Cycle vs. DIM voltage  
ILED  
100 mA/Ddiv  
LEDOFF  
5V/Div  
MODE/F  
1V/Div  
DIM  
1V/Div  
2 ms/DIV  
Figure 22. Analog Dimming Mode Waveforms  
20  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
 
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
In PWM dimming, the average LED current is equal to the set LED current (ILED) multiplied by the dimming duty  
cycle. The average LED current tracks the dimming ratio with exceptional linearity. However, the accuracy of  
average LED current depends somewhat on the rise and fall times of the external current regulators. This  
becomes more apparent with short on-times. To ensure good linearity, select NPN regulators with short and  
similar rise and fall times.  
Setting FF  
To minimize voltage transients during LED dimming, the output voltage is regulated via the AFB pin during LED  
off times. However, because the control loop has a limited response time, voltage transients can never be  
completely eliminated. If these transients are large enough, LED current will be affected and ceramic output  
capacitors may generate audible noise. The FF pin speeds up the loop response time, and thus minimizes output  
voltage transients during dimming.  
A resistor connected from FF to ground, Rff, sets the FF current which is injected into the control loop at the  
rising and falling edge of the dimming signal. In this way, the FF pin creates a correction signal before the control  
loop can respond. A smaller FF resistor will generate a larger correction signal. The minimum recommended Rff  
value is 10k.  
Since the amount of FF correction required for a given application depends on many factors, it is best to  
determine a FF resistor value through bench testing. Use the following procedure to determine an optimal Rff  
value:  
An Rff value of approximately 20k is a good starting point. A 20 kpotentiometer in series with a 10 kresistor  
works well for bench testing.  
The dimming frequency must be selected before setting Rff. Confirm that boost switching operation is stable at  
100% dimming duty cycle.  
Adjust Rff until the COMP pin voltage is between 0.8V and 0.9V. Next, monitor the cathode voltage response at  
a low dimming duty cycle while adjusting Rff until the overshoot and undershoot is minimal or there is a slight  
overshoot.  
Check the cathode voltage response at the lowest input voltage and lowest dimming duty cycle and adjust Rff if  
necessary. This is typically the worst case condition.  
The curves in Figure 23 below show the variation in cathode voltage with different Rff settings. Notice that at the  
ideal setting, both the cathode voltage and COMP voltage are flat. For clarity, the 3 cathode voltage curves in  
this figure have been offset; all FF settings will result in the cathode voltage settling at 1.2V typically.  
COMP  
500 mV/Div  
RFF  
low  
RFF  
ideal  
RFF  
high  
Vcathode  
1V/Div  
ILED  
100 mA/Div  
20 ms/DIV  
Figure 23. FF Setting Example  
Once an Rff value has been set, check the cathode voltage over the input voltage range and dimming duty  
range. Some further adjustment may be necessary.  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
21  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
In practice the FF pin also has a small effect on the control loop response. As a final step, switching stability at  
100% dimming duty should be re-verified once the Rff value has been selected. At the optimal Rff setting, output  
voltage transients will be minimized and the cathode voltage will be stable across the range of input voltage and  
dimming duty cycle.  
The ideal cathode response illustrated in Figure 23 may not be achievable over the entire input voltage range.  
However, LED current will not be affected as long as the cathode voltage remains above the regulator saturation  
voltage and below the open LED fault threshold (See Open LED section).  
A wide input voltage range will cause a wider variation in the feedforward effect, thus making duty cycles less  
than 1% more difficult to achieve. For any given application there is a minimum achievable dimming duty cycle.  
Below this duty cycle, the cathode voltage will begin to drift higher, eventually appearing as an open LED fault  
(See LED Protection section).  
During an LED open fault condition, cathode voltage overshoot will tend to increase. If Rff is not set  
appropriately, high overshoots may be detected as an LED short fault and lead to shutdown.  
LED Protection  
Fault Modes and Fault Delay  
The LM3431 provides 3 types of protection against several types of potential faults. Table 1 summarizes the fault  
protections and groups the fault responses into three types (the auto-restart option is described in the next  
section).  
Table 1. Fault Mode Summary  
Fault  
1 LED open  
Mechanism  
SC > 3.1V  
Action  
Response  
continue to regulate  
continue to regulate  
Shutdown or auto-restart  
Shutdown or auto-restart  
Shutdown or auto-restart  
Shutdown or auto-restart  
Shutdown or auto-restart  
Shutdown or auto-restart  
stand by  
Type  
DLY charges  
DLY charges  
DLY charges  
DLY charges  
DLY charges  
DLY charges  
DLY charges  
DLY charges  
No DLY flag  
No DLY flag  
No DLY flag  
1
1 LED short  
SC > 3.1V  
All LEDs open  
Output over-voltage  
multiple LED short  
Multiple LED short, VIN<6V  
Cathode short  
Current limit  
AFB > 2.0V  
AFB > 2.0V  
SC > 6.0V  
2
AFB < 0.85V  
CFB low at startup  
COMP at max  
VCC or EN low  
IC over temperature  
THM < 1.2V  
UVLO  
TSD  
stand by  
3
THM  
stand by  
When Type 1 or Type 2 faults occur, the DLY pin begins sourcing current (57 µA typical). A capacitor connected  
from DLY to ground (C7) sets the DLY voltage ramp and shutdown delay time. For a Type 1 fault, the LM3431  
will continue to regulate, although the DLY pin remains high. In this condition, the DLY pin will charge to a  
maximum of 3.6V (typical).  
In case of a Type 2 fault, when the DLY voltage reaches 2.8V (typical), the LM3431 will shut down and the DLY  
pin will remain at 3.6V.  
For evaluation and debugging purposes, Type 2 shutdown can be disabled by grounding the DLY pin. It is not  
recommended to leave the DLY pin open.  
For any fault other than a cathode short, the DLY pin will discharge (sinking 1.8 µA) when the fault is removed  
before shutdown occurs. Since most fault conditions can only be sensed during the LED-on dimming period, the  
DLY pin will not charge during LED-off times. When the LEDs are off, DLY is in a high impedance state and its  
voltage will remain constant. If a fault is removed during the LED-off period, DLY will begin discharging at the  
next LED-on cycle. If the fault is not removed, DLY will continue charging at the next LED-on cycle. Therefore,  
the DLY charging time is controlled by both the DLY capacitor and the dimming duty cycle. The time for the DLY  
pin to charge to the shutdown threshold can be calculated as shown:  
C7 x 2.8V  
1
DDIM  
x
t_dly =  
57 mA  
(31)  
22  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
 
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
Where DDIM is the dimming duty cycle. Figure 24 below shows the DLY pin charging during dimming due to a  
Type 1 fault:  
Vcathode  
2V/Div  
DLY  
2V/Div  
ILED  
100 mA/Div  
1 ms/DIV  
Figure 24. DLY Charging, 1 LED Open Fault  
When the LED string turns on, there is a 1.6 µs typical blanking time for fault detection. This ensures that the  
LED cathode voltage will reach its regulation point and faults will not be falsely triggered. However, faults can not  
be detected during short dimming cycles of less than 1.6 µs.  
When a Type 3 fault occurs, DLY does not charge. The LM3431 will enter standby mode and restart from  
softstart when the fault condition is removed.  
Fault Shutdown and Automatic Restart  
In normal operation, the LM3431 must be powered off or put into standby via the EN pin to restart after a fault  
shutdown. However, the LEDOFF pin can be connected to GND to enable the automatic restart feature. During  
startup, the LEDOFF voltage is monitored and if grounded, auto-restart mode is enabled.  
In auto-restart mode, the DLY pin will be discharged by a 1.8 µA sink current after a Type 2 shutdown. In this  
mode, DLY will not reach 3.6V, but will start discharging from the shut down threshold of 2.8V. When the DLY  
pin voltage falls to 350 mV (typical) the LM3431 will restart from softstart mode. In this way, the DLY capacitor  
controls the restart delay time. If the LEDOFF pin is used to control additional LED strings (see LEDOFF: Adding  
Additional channels), then the automatic restart feature cannot be enabled.  
In the case of an output over-voltage fault (all LEDs open), DLY will not discharge until the AFB voltage falls  
below the OVP threshold. Figure 25 below shows an OVP fault with auto-restart activated. The output voltage  
increases when all LEDs are opened, causing DLY to charge. DLY remains at 2.8V until Vout falls below the  
OVP threshold. When DLY discharges to 350 mV, softstart begins. In auto-restart mode, the LM3431 will re-start  
continually until the fault is removed. In this example, the fault is removed and normal operation continues after  
one attempted re-start.  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
23  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
Vout  
10V/Div  
SS/SH  
1V/Div  
DLY  
2V/Div  
ILED  
500 mA/Div  
10 ms/DIV  
Figure 25. OVP and Auto-Restart  
Open LED  
If any LED string fails open, the boost regulator will sense a low voltage at the CFB pin. This will cause the  
output voltage to increase, causing the other LED string cathode voltages to also increase. When the SC pin  
voltage rises to 3.1V, a Type 1 fault will be triggered and the DLY pin will begin sourcing current. In this mode,  
the SC voltage will be clamped at 3.5V (typical) and the regulators will continue to operate. At this higher cathode  
voltage, power dissipation will increase in the external NPN regulators. Power dissipation will also increase in the  
LM3431 since any open string will cause the NDRV pin to source its maximum current. A one LED open fault  
condition is shown in Figure 24 above. The open LED causes the cathode voltage to increase, and DLY charges  
during each LED on cycle while current continues to be regulated in the other LED strings.  
If all LED strings fail open, the same action will cause the output voltage to increase. However, in this case, SC  
will be held low and cannot sense the failure. Instead, this failure mode is sensed by AFB. When AFB reaches its  
over-voltage threshold of 2.0V (typical), a Type 2 fault will be triggered, the DLY pin will begin sourcing current,  
and the LM3431 will shut down.  
Unlike the SC and CFB fault detection, the AFB pin is always monitored. Therefore, DLY charging time will not  
be affected by the dimming duty cycle and any over-voltage condition will cause DLY to charge.  
Shorted LED  
If an LED fails short circuit, the SC voltage will increase. When SC reaches 3.1V, the same Type 1 fault as an  
open LED will be triggered. Current in the affected string will continue to be regulated, with the cathode clamped  
at one diode Vf above 3.5V. As in the case of 1 LED open, the power dissipation will increase in the external  
NPN regulator of the shorted string.  
However, if enough LEDs or an entire string are shorted, the SC pin will rise to the short circuit threshold of 6.0V.  
This will cause a Type 2 fault, and the LM3431 will shut down when the DLY threshold is reached.  
When an LED string is shorted, the LM3431 will attempt to reduce the SC voltage to 3.5V. As a result, switching  
will stop, and the cathode voltage will be brought to the minimum level, which is Vin. If Vin is less than  
approximately 6V and the DLY time is long enough, SC will fall below the 6V short circuit fault threshold. In this  
case, the shorted string fault will be detected as an AFB under-voltage (UVP) fault.  
When AFB falls below 0.85V (typical) a Type 2 fault will be triggered. As is the case with OVP detection, the AFB  
UVP threshold is monitored during both LED on and LED off cycles. A UVP fault will cause DLY to charge,  
unaffected by the dimming duty cycle. Figure 26 below shows the sudden cathode voltage increase due to an  
LED string short. DLY begins charging and charges continuously when an AFB under-voltage is detected,  
eventually causing a shutdown.  
24  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
Vcathode  
5V/Div  
DLY  
1V/Div  
ILED  
200 mA/Div  
400 ms/DIV  
Figure 26. LED String Short Fault and UVP Detection  
Shorted Cathode  
At the end of softstart, the CFB voltage is monitored. In normal startup, the LED strings are off and CFB voltage  
increases with the output voltage. If the CFB voltage stays below approximately 1.9V, a cathode short to ground  
condition is detected and a Type 2 fault is triggered. At the end of soft-start, the DLY pin will begin sourcing  
current and it will continue sourcing until the shutdown threshold is reached, even if the short condition is  
removed.  
When a cathode short occurs, the LEDs in the affected string will be driven on during the soft-start and DLY  
periods. Therefore, the DLY and soft-start time should be set short enough for the LED string to withstand the  
burst of unregulated current.  
Thermal Considerations  
To optimize performance under all conditions, the LM3431 controls the temperature coefficients of critical  
parameters and provides over-temperature protection for both the IC and LEDs.  
THM  
The THM pin is designed to monitor for over-temperature conditions at the LED array. This is done with a  
negative TC thermistor mounted at the LED panel. The THM circuit is a resistor divider from a reference voltage  
to ground, shown in Figure 27 as R17 and Rth. As the thermistor temperature increases, the THM pin voltage will  
decrease. When THM drops to 1.23V (typical), a Type 3 fault is triggered and the LM3431 will enter standby until  
the thermistor temperature decreases and THM voltage increases. Thermistors are typically specified by their  
resistance at 25°C, and by their beta constant which describes the temperature coefficient. The resistance value  
at the desired shutdown temperature can be calculated from the beta constant or found in the thermistor  
datasheet table. Once the shutdown temperature resistance is known, the R17 value can be calculated as shown  
below.  
VCC - 1.23V  
R17 = Rth @ T x  
1.23V  
(32)  
where Rth@T is the thermistor resistance at the desired shutdown temperature. Although VCC is shown in the  
typical application schematic, any regulated voltage source can be used in its place, including VREF  
.
In shutdown, THM sinks 10 µA to create some hysteresis. An R17 value of at least 20 kis recommended to  
create sufficient hysteresis. Larger values of R17 (and Rth) will generate larger hysteresis.  
If more hysteresis is required, a resistor can be added in series with THM as shown below:  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
25  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
VCC  
R17  
PGND  
THM  
AFB  
SC  
Rhys  
Rth  
Figure 27. THM Circuit with Hysteresis  
The THM hysteresis can be determined by calculating the restart threshold as shown below. If RHYS is not  
installed, calculate Rth@restart using an RHYS value of 0.  
1.23V œ (10 mA x RHYS  
)
Rth @ restart =  
VCC - 1.23V œ (10 mA x RHYS  
)
- 10 mA  
R17  
(33)  
Where 10 µA is the THM sink current, and Rth@restart is the thermistor resistance at the restart temperature.  
Refer to the manufacturer datasheet to find the restart temperature at the calculated resistance or use the beta  
constant to calculate the restart temperature.  
During startup (and re-start), the THM monitor is active. Therefore, the thermistor temperature must be below the  
restart threshold for the LM3431 to startup.  
TSD  
If the LM3431 internal junction temperature increases above 160°C TSD is activated. This is a Type 3 fault  
condition. Device temperature rise is determined by internal power dissipation primarily in the LG and NDRVx  
drivers. The power dissipation can be estimated as follows:  
PD = PIQ + PNDRV + PVCC + PG  
PIQ = VIN x IQ  
(34)  
Where  
IQ is 4.0 mA typically  
(35)  
PNDRV = (VIN - REFIN - Vbe) x INDRV x DDIM x #Strings  
Where  
REFIN+Vbe is the NDRV voltage  
INDRV was calculated previously in the NDRV section  
(36)  
For the case of open LEDs, INDRV on the open string will be at the maximum of 15 mA. The LM3431 power  
dissipation will be highest in open LED conditions at 100% dimming duty. If NFETs are used for regulation,  
PNDRV will be a function of dimming frequency and can be calculated as:  
PNDRV_FET = f dim x Qg x VIN  
PVCC = (VIN - VCC) x IVCC  
(37)  
Where  
VCC is any current being drawn from the VCC pin, such as external op-amp power, or THM voltage divider. (38)  
The LG power dissipation, PG is given in the NFET Selection section.  
Temperature rise can then be calculated as:  
TRISE = PD x θJA  
Where  
θJA is typically 32°C/W and varies with pcb copper area (Refer to the PCB Layout section)  
(39)  
26  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
Although the TSD threshold is 160°C, the LM3431 may not operate within specification at temperatures above  
the maximum rating of 125°C. Power dissipation should be limited to ensure that device temperature stays within  
this limit.  
Temperature Coefficients  
Several device specifications are designed to vary with temperature. To maintain optimum headroom control and  
minimum NPN power dissipation, CFB regulation has a tempco of -2.6 mV/°C. This is matched to the typical  
tempco of the small signal diodes used for the cathode feedback connection. Although the CFB voltage will vary  
with temperature, the cathode voltage will remain stable. The SS/SH pin rises to 1.85V typically during soft start.  
This voltage has a tempco of approximately -2.2 mV/°C, which is designed to follow the tempco of the LED  
strings. At then end of soft start, the anode voltage will be greater than the maximum LED forward voltage,  
regardless of operating temperature. To avoid false errors, the AFB overvoltage threshold has a tempco of -1.4  
mV/°C. Of course, these temperature monitoring features are most effective with the LM3431 mounted within the  
same ambient temperature as the LEDs.  
LEDOFF: Adding Additional channels  
Although the LM3431 has three internal current controllers, more channels can easily be added. A fourth LED  
string is shown in Figure 14 connected to VC4.  
For additional channels, the sense resistor should be the same value as the main three channels. During startup  
and dimming off time, LEDOFF rises to 5V, which quickly turns off the external driver. While the LED strings are  
on, the LEDOFF signal is low, allowing normal regulation. If LEDOFF is used to add additional channels, it  
cannot be used to enable auto-restart mode.  
All additional channels must also be connected through diodes to the SC and CFB pins as shown in the typical  
application schematic. The op-amp used to drive the additional channel current regulator must be fast enough to  
drive the regulator fully on within the DLY blanking time. A slew rate of 5V/µsec is typically sufficient. Also, the  
op-amp output must be capable of completely turning off the NPN regulator, which requires a drive voltage no  
greater than the REFIN voltage. A rail-to-rail type op-amp is recommended.  
Finally, the R14 resistor should be large enough to limit VCC current during the LED-off cycle. A value of at least  
1k is recommended. Any additional channels will have a longer turn-on delay time than channels 1-3. An  
additional delay time of 250 ns is typical. The added delay can affect dimming linearity at on times less than 1 µs.  
LED Current Accuracy  
LED string current accuracy is affected by factors both internal and external to the LM3431. For any single string  
the maximum deviation from ideal is simply the sum of the sense resistor, offset error, REF voltage, REFIN  
resistor divider accuracy, and bipolar gain variation:  
Db x 100  
2 x b2  
5 mV x 100  
REFIN  
Acc_single% = ê AR10 + 2% + AR7 + AR8  
+
+
Where  
AR10 is the sense resistor % accuracy  
2% is the REF voltage accuracy, AR7  
AR8 are the REFIN setting resistors % accuracy  
5 mV is the maximum SNS amp offset voltage (use 3 mV for LM3431A)  
β is the gain of NPN transistor  
Δβ is the specified range of gain in the NPN  
(40)  
The string-to-string accuracy is the maximum difference in current between any two strings. It is best calculated  
using the RSS method:  
2
+
Db x100  
2 x b2  
6 mV x 100  
REFIN  
2
Acc_s-s% = ê 2 x AR10  
+
Where  
6 mV is the maximum SNS amp delta offset voltage (VOS_DELTA over temperature, use 4 mV for LM3431A) and  
we are assuming the sense resistors have the same accuracy rating  
(41)  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
27  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
If FETs are used, the β term can be ignored in both equations. The LED current in each string will be within  
±Acc_single% of the set current. And the difference between any two strings will be within ±Acc_s-s% of each  
other.  
PCB Layout  
Good PCB layout is critical in all switching regulator designs. A poor layout can cause EMI problems, excess  
switching noise, and improper device operation. The following key points should be followed to ensure a quality  
layout.  
Traces carrying large AC currents should be as wide and short as possible to minimize trace inductance and  
associated noise spikes.  
These areas, shown hatched in Figure 28, are:  
The connection between the output capacitor and diode  
The PGND area between the output capacitor, R3 sense resistor, and bulk input capacitor  
The switch node  
The current sensing circuitry in current mode controllers can be easily affected by switching noise. Although the  
LM3431 imposes 170ns of blanking time at the beginning of every cycle to ignore this noise, some may remain  
after the blanking time. Following the important guidelines below will help minimize switching noise and its effect  
on current sensing.  
As shown in Figure 28, ground the output capacitor as close as possible to the bottom of the sense resistor. This  
connection should be somewhat isolated from the rest of the PGND plane (place no ground plane vias in this  
area). The VOUT side of the output capacitor should be placed close to the diode.  
The SW node (the node connecting the diode anode, inductor, and FET drain) should be kept as small as  
possible. This node is one of the main sources for radiated EMI. Sensitive traces should not be routed in the  
area of the SW node or inductor.  
The CS pin is sensitive to noise. Be sure to route this trace away from the inductor and the switch node. The CS,  
LG, and ILIM traces should be kept as short as possible. As shown below, R4 must be grounded close to the  
ground side of R3.  
The VCC capacitor should be placed as close as possible to the IC and grounded close to the PGND pin. Take  
care in routing any other VCC traces away from noise sources and use decoupling capacitors when using VCC  
as an external voltage supply.  
A ceramic input capacitor must be connected as close as possible to the VIN pin and grounded close to the  
PGND pin.  
An isolated ground area shown as SGND is recommended for small signal ground connections. The SGND  
plane should connect to both the exposed pad (EP) and SGND pin. The SGND and PGND ground planes should  
be connected to their respective pins and both pins should be connected only through the exposed pad, EP.  
Components connecting all of the following pins should be placed close to the device and grounded to the SGND  
plane: REF, REFIN, AFB, COMP, RT, FF, MODE/F, and SS/SH. These components and their traces should not  
be routed near the switch node or inductor. The LED current sense resistors should be grounded to the SGND  
plane for accurate current sensing. This area, shown as LGND in Figure 28, should be somewhat separated from  
SGND and must provide enough copper area for the total LED current.  
If driving more than 3 channels, the layout of the additional channels should be within a minimal area with short  
trace lengths. This will help to reduce ringing and delay times. Connections to the LED array should be as short  
as possible. Less than 25 cm is recommended. Longer lead lengths can cause excessive ringing or oscillation.  
A large, continuous ground plane should be placed as an inner or bottom layer for thermal dissipation. This plane  
should be considered as a PGND area and not used for SGND connections. To optimize thermal performance,  
multiple vias should be placed directly below the exposed pad to increase heat flow into the ground plane. The  
recommended number of vias is 10-12 with a hole diameter between 0.20 mm and 0.33 mm. See TI Lit Number  
SNVA183 for more information.  
28  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
LM3431  
www.ti.com  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
VIN  
SW  
PGND  
Vout  
Vout  
R3  
R4  
EP  
LGND  
SGND  
Figure 28. Example PCB Layout  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
29  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
 
LM3431  
SNVS547G NOVEMBER 2007REVISED MAY 2013  
www.ti.com  
REVISION HISTORY  
Changes from Revision F (May 2013) to Revision G  
Page  
Changed layout of National Data Sheet to TI format .......................................................................................................... 29  
30  
Submit Documentation Feedback  
Copyright © 2007–2013, Texas Instruments Incorporated  
Product Folder Links: LM3431  
PACKAGE OPTION ADDENDUM  
www.ti.com  
10-Dec-2020  
PACKAGING INFORMATION  
Orderable Device  
Status Package Type Package Pins Package  
Eco Plan  
Lead finish/  
Ball material  
MSL Peak Temp  
Op Temp (°C)  
Device Marking  
Samples  
Drawing  
Qty  
(1)  
(2)  
(3)  
(4/5)  
(6)  
LM3431AMH/NOPB  
LM3431AMHX/NOPB  
LM3431AQMH/NOPB  
ACTIVE  
ACTIVE  
ACTIVE  
HTSSOP  
HTSSOP  
HTSSOP  
PWP  
PWP  
PWP  
28  
28  
28  
48  
RoHS & Green  
SN  
Level-1-260C-UNLIM  
Level-1-260C-UNLIM  
Level-1-260C-UNLIM  
-40 to 125  
-40 to 125  
-40 to 125  
LM3431AMH  
2500 RoHS & Green  
48 RoHS & Green  
2500 RoHS & Green  
48 RoHS & Green  
2500 RoHS & Green  
48 RoHS & Green  
2500 RoHS & Green  
SN  
SN  
LM3431AMH  
LM3431  
AQMH  
LM3431AQMHX/NOPB  
ACTIVE  
HTSSOP  
PWP  
28  
SN  
Level-1-260C-UNLIM  
-40 to 125  
LM3431  
AQMH  
LM3431MH/NOPB  
LM3431MHX/NOPB  
LM3431QMH/NOPB  
ACTIVE  
ACTIVE  
ACTIVE  
HTSSOP  
HTSSOP  
HTSSOP  
PWP  
PWP  
PWP  
28  
28  
28  
SN  
SN  
SN  
Level-1-260C-UNLIM  
Level-1-260C-UNLIM  
Level-1-260C-UNLIM  
-40 to 125  
-40 to 125  
-40 to 125  
LM3431MH  
LM3431MH  
LM3431  
QMH  
LM3431QMHX/NOPB  
ACTIVE  
HTSSOP  
PWP  
28  
SN  
Level-1-260C-UNLIM  
-40 to 125  
LM3431  
QMH  
(1) The marketing status values are defined as follows:  
ACTIVE: Product device recommended for new designs.  
LIFEBUY: TI has announced that the device will be discontinued, and a lifetime-buy period is in effect.  
NRND: Not recommended for new designs. Device is in production to support existing customers, but TI does not recommend using this part in a new design.  
PREVIEW: Device has been announced but is not in production. Samples may or may not be available.  
OBSOLETE: TI has discontinued the production of the device.  
(2) RoHS: TI defines "RoHS" to mean semiconductor products that are compliant with the current EU RoHS requirements for all 10 RoHS substances, including the requirement that RoHS substance  
do not exceed 0.1% by weight in homogeneous materials. Where designed to be soldered at high temperatures, "RoHS" products are suitable for use in specified lead-free processes. TI may  
reference these types of products as "Pb-Free".  
RoHS Exempt: TI defines "RoHS Exempt" to mean products that contain lead but are compliant with EU RoHS pursuant to a specific EU RoHS exemption.  
Green: TI defines "Green" to mean the content of Chlorine (Cl) and Bromine (Br) based flame retardants meet JS709B low halogen requirements of <=1000ppm threshold. Antimony trioxide based  
flame retardants must also meet the <=1000ppm threshold requirement.  
(3) MSL, Peak Temp. - The Moisture Sensitivity Level rating according to the JEDEC industry standard classifications, and peak solder temperature.  
(4) There may be additional marking, which relates to the logo, the lot trace code information, or the environmental category on the device.  
Addendum-Page 1  
PACKAGE OPTION ADDENDUM  
www.ti.com  
10-Dec-2020  
(5) Multiple Device Markings will be inside parentheses. Only one Device Marking contained in parentheses and separated by a "~" will appear on a device. If a line is indented then it is a continuation  
of the previous line and the two combined represent the entire Device Marking for that device.  
(6)  
Lead finish/Ball material - Orderable Devices may have multiple material finish options. Finish options are separated by a vertical ruled line. Lead finish/Ball material values may wrap to two  
lines if the finish value exceeds the maximum column width.  
Important Information and Disclaimer:The information provided on this page represents TI's knowledge and belief as of the date that it is provided. TI bases its knowledge and belief on information  
provided by third parties, and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of such information. Efforts are underway to better integrate information from third parties. TI has taken and  
continues to take reasonable steps to provide representative and accurate information but may not have conducted destructive testing or chemical analysis on incoming materials and chemicals.  
TI and TI suppliers consider certain information to be proprietary, and thus CAS numbers and other limited information may not be available for release.  
In no event shall TI's liability arising out of such information exceed the total purchase price of the TI part(s) at issue in this document sold by TI to Customer on an annual basis.  
OTHER QUALIFIED VERSIONS OF LM3431, LM3431-Q1 :  
Catalog: LM3431  
Automotive: LM3431-Q1  
NOTE: Qualified Version Definitions:  
Catalog - TI's standard catalog product  
Automotive - Q100 devices qualified for high-reliability automotive applications targeting zero defects  
Addendum-Page 2  
PACKAGE MATERIALS INFORMATION  
www.ti.com  
5-Jan-2022  
TAPE AND REEL INFORMATION  
*All dimensions are nominal  
Device  
Package Package Pins  
Type Drawing  
SPQ  
Reel  
Reel  
A0  
B0  
K0  
P1  
W
Pin1  
Diameter Width (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) Quadrant  
(mm) W1 (mm)  
LM3431AMHX/NOPB HTSSOP PWP  
LM3431AQMHX/NOPB HTSSOP PWP  
28  
28  
28  
28  
2500  
2500  
2500  
2500  
330.0  
330.0  
330.0  
330.0  
16.4  
16.4  
16.4  
16.4  
6.8  
6.8  
6.8  
6.8  
10.2  
10.2  
10.2  
10.2  
1.6  
1.6  
1.6  
1.6  
8.0  
8.0  
8.0  
8.0  
16.0  
16.0  
16.0  
16.0  
Q1  
Q1  
Q1  
Q1  
LM3431MHX/NOPB  
HTSSOP PWP  
LM3431QMHX/NOPB HTSSOP PWP  
Pack Materials-Page 1  
PACKAGE MATERIALS INFORMATION  
www.ti.com  
5-Jan-2022  
*All dimensions are nominal  
Device  
Package Type Package Drawing Pins  
SPQ  
Length (mm) Width (mm) Height (mm)  
LM3431AMHX/NOPB  
LM3431AQMHX/NOPB  
LM3431MHX/NOPB  
LM3431QMHX/NOPB  
HTSSOP  
HTSSOP  
HTSSOP  
HTSSOP  
PWP  
PWP  
PWP  
PWP  
28  
28  
28  
28  
2500  
2500  
2500  
2500  
367.0  
367.0  
367.0  
367.0  
367.0  
367.0  
367.0  
367.0  
35.0  
35.0  
35.0  
35.0  
Pack Materials-Page 2  
PACKAGE MATERIALS INFORMATION  
www.ti.com  
5-Jan-2022  
TUBE  
*All dimensions are nominal  
Device  
Package Name Package Type  
Pins  
SPQ  
L (mm)  
W (mm)  
T (µm)  
B (mm)  
LM3431AMH/NOPB  
LM3431AQMH/NOPB  
LM3431MH/NOPB  
LM3431QMH/NOPB  
PWP  
PWP  
PWP  
PWP  
HTSSOP  
HTSSOP  
HTSSOP  
HTSSOP  
28  
28  
28  
28  
48  
48  
48  
48  
495  
495  
495  
495  
8
8
8
8
2514.6  
2514.6  
2514.6  
2514.6  
4.06  
4.06  
4.06  
4.06  
Pack Materials-Page 3  
PACKAGE OUTLINE  
PWP0028A  
PowerPADTM - 1.1 mm max height  
S
C
A
L
E
1
.
8
0
0
PLASTIC SMALL OUTLINE  
C
6.6  
6.2  
TYP  
SEATING PLANE  
A
PIN 1 ID  
AREA  
0.1 C  
26X 0.65  
28  
1
9.8  
9.6  
NOTE 3  
2X  
8.45  
14  
B
15  
0.30  
0.19  
28X  
1.1 MAX  
4.5  
4.3  
0.1  
C A  
B
NOTE 4  
0.20  
0.09  
TYP  
SEE DETAIL A  
3.15  
2.75  
0.25  
GAGE PLANE  
5.65  
5.25  
0.10  
0.02  
THERMAL  
PAD  
0 - 8  
0.7  
0.5  
DETAIL A  
(1)  
TYPICAL  
4214870/A 10/2014  
PowerPAD is a trademark of Texas Instruments.  
NOTES:  
1. All linear dimensions are in millimeters. Any dimensions in parenthesis are for reference only. Dimensioning and tolerancing  
per ASME Y14.5M.  
2. This drawing is subject to change without notice.  
3. This dimension does not include mold flash, protrusions, or gate burrs. Mold flash, protrusions, or gate burrs shall not  
exceed 0.15 mm, per side.  
4. This dimension does not include interlead flash. Interlead flash shall not exceed 0.25 mm, per side.  
5. Reference JEDEC registration MO-153, variation AET.  
www.ti.com  
EXAMPLE BOARD LAYOUT  
PWP0028A  
PowerPADTM - 1.1 mm max height  
PLASTIC SMALL OUTLINE  
(3.4)  
NOTE 9  
(3)  
SOLDER  
MASK  
OPENING  
SOLDER MASK  
DEFINED PAD  
28X (1.5)  
28X (1.3)  
28X (0.45)  
28X (0.45)  
1
28  
26X  
(0.65)  
SYMM  
(5.5)  
(9.7)  
SOLDER  
MASK  
OPENING  
(1.3) TYP  
14  
15  
(
0.2) TYP  
(1.3)  
SEE DETAILS  
(0.65) TYP  
(0.9) TYP  
(6.1)  
VIA  
SYMM  
METAL COVERED  
BY SOLDER MASK  
HV / ISOLATION OPTION  
0.9 CLEARANCE CREEPAGE  
OTHER DIMENSIONS IDENTICAL TO IPC-7351  
(5.8)  
IPC-7351 NOMINAL  
0.65 CLEARANCE CREEPAGE  
LAND PATTERN EXAMPLE  
SCALE:6X  
SOLDER MASK  
OPENING  
SOLDER MASK  
OPENING  
METAL  
METAL UNDER  
SOLDER MASK  
0.05 MAX  
ALL AROUND  
0.05 MIN  
ALL AROUND  
SOLDER MASK  
DEFINED  
NON SOLDER MASK  
DEFINED  
SOLDER MASK DETAILS  
4214870/A 10/2014  
NOTES: (continued)  
6. Publication IPC-7351 may have alternate designs.  
7. Solder mask tolerances between and around signal pads can vary based on board fabrication site.  
8. This package is designed to be soldered to a thermal pad on the board. For more information, see Texas Instruments literature  
numbers SLMA002 (www.ti.com/lit/slma002) and SLMA004 (www.ti.com/lit/slma004).  
9. Size of metal pad may vary due to creepage requirement.  
www.ti.com  
EXAMPLE STENCIL DESIGN  
PWP0028A  
PowerPADTM - 1.1 mm max height  
PLASTIC SMALL OUTLINE  
(3)  
BASED ON  
0.127 THICK  
STENCIL  
METAL COVERED  
BY SOLDER MASK  
28X (1.5)  
28X (1.3)  
28X (0.45)  
1
28  
26X (0.65)  
28X (0.45)  
(5.5)  
SYMM  
BASED ON  
0.127 THICK  
STENCIL  
14  
15  
SEE TABLE FOR  
DIFFERENT OPENINGS  
SYMM  
(6.1)  
FOR OTHER STENCIL  
THICKNESSES  
(5.8)  
HV / ISOLATION OPTION  
0.9 CLEARANCE CREEPAGE  
OTHER DIMENSIONS IDENTICAL TO IPC-7351  
IPC-7351 NOMINAL  
0.65 CLEARANCE CREEPAGE  
SOLDER PASTE EXAMPLE  
EXPOSED PAD  
100% PRINTED SOLDER COVERAGE AREA  
SCALE:6X  
STENCIL  
THICKNESS  
SOLDER STENCIL  
OPENING  
0.1  
3.55 X 6.37  
3.0 X 5.5 (SHOWN)  
2.88 X 5.16  
0.127  
0.152  
0.178  
2.66 X 4.77  
4214870/A 10/2014  
NOTES: (continued)  
10. Laser cutting apertures with trapezoidal walls and rounded corners may offer better paste release. IPC-7525 may have alternate  
design recommendations.  
11. Board assembly site may have different recommendations for stencil design.  
www.ti.com  
IMPORTANT NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER  
TI PROVIDES TECHNICAL AND RELIABILITY DATA (INCLUDING DATA SHEETS), DESIGN RESOURCES (INCLUDING REFERENCE  
DESIGNS), APPLICATION OR OTHER DESIGN ADVICE, WEB TOOLS, SAFETY INFORMATION, AND OTHER RESOURCES “AS IS”  
AND WITH ALL FAULTS, AND DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, EXPRESS AND IMPLIED, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION ANY  
IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR NON-INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD  
PARTY INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS.  
These resources are intended for skilled developers designing with TI products. You are solely responsible for (1) selecting the appropriate  
TI products for your application, (2) designing, validating and testing your application, and (3) ensuring your application meets applicable  
standards, and any other safety, security, regulatory or other requirements.  
These resources are subject to change without notice. TI grants you permission to use these resources only for development of an  
application that uses the TI products described in the resource. Other reproduction and display of these resources is prohibited. No license  
is granted to any other TI intellectual property right or to any third party intellectual property right. TI disclaims responsibility for, and you  
will fully indemnify TI and its representatives against, any claims, damages, costs, losses, and liabilities arising out of your use of these  
resources.  
TI’s products are provided subject to TI’s Terms of Sale or other applicable terms available either on ti.com or provided in conjunction with  
such TI products. TI’s provision of these resources does not expand or otherwise alter TI’s applicable warranties or warranty disclaimers for  
TI products.  
TI objects to and rejects any additional or different terms you may have proposed. IMPORTANT NOTICE  
Mailing Address: Texas Instruments, Post Office Box 655303, Dallas, Texas 75265  
Copyright © 2022, Texas Instruments Incorporated  

相关型号:

LM3431AQMHX

3-Channel Constant Current LED Driver with Integrated Boost Controller
NSC

LM3431AQMHX/NOPB

具有集成升压控制器的 3 通道汽车类 LED 恒流驱动器 | PWP | 28 | -40 to 125
TI

LM3431MH

3-Channel Constant Current LED Driver with Integrated Boost Controller
NSC

LM3431MH/NOPB

IC 0.7 A SWITCHING CONTROLLER, 1100 kHz SWITCHING FREQ-MAX, PDSO28, LEAD FREE, PLASTIC, TSSOP-28, Switching Regulator or Controller
NSC

LM3431MH/NOPB

具有集成升压控制器的 3 通道恒流 LED 驱动器 | PWP | 28 | -40 to 125
TI

LM3431MHX

3-Channel Constant Current LED Driver with Integrated Boost Controller
NSC

LM3431MHX/NOPB

具有集成升压控制器的 3 通道恒流 LED 驱动器 | PWP | 28 | -40 to 125
TI

LM3431Q

3-Channel Constant Current LED Driver with Integrated Boost Controller
NSC

LM3431QMH

3-Channel Constant Current LED Driver with Integrated Boost Controller
NSC

LM3431QMH/NOPB

具有集成升压控制器的 3 通道汽车类 LED 恒流驱动器 | PWP | 28 | -40 to 125
TI

LM3431QMHX

3-Channel Constant Current LED Driver with Integrated Boost Controller
NSC

LM3431QMHX/NOPB

具有集成升压控制器的 3 通道汽车类 LED 恒流驱动器 | PWP | 28 | -40 to 125
TI