SLVS543S August 2004 – May 2024 TL431 , TL432
PRODUCTION DATA
TL43xx consists of an internal reference and amplifier that outputs a sink current base on the difference between the reference pin and the virtual internal pin. The sink current is produced by the internal Darlington pair, shown in the above schematic (Figure 8-2). A Darlington pair is used for this device to be able to sink a maximum current of 100mA.
When operated with enough voltage headroom (≥ 2.5V) and cathode current (IKA), TL431 forces the reference pin to 2.5V. However, the reference pin can not be left floating, as it needs IREF ≥ 4µA (please see Electrical Characteristics, TL431C, TL432C). This is because the reference pin is driven into an npn, which needs base current in order operate properly.
When feedback is applied from the Cathode and Reference pins, TL43xx behaves as a Zener diode, regulating to a constant voltage dependent on current being supplied into the cathode. This is due to the internal amplifier and reference entering the proper operating regions. The same amount of current needed in the above feedback situation must be applied to this device in open loop, servo or error amplifying implementations for it to be in the proper linear region giving TL43xx enough gain.
Unlike many linear regulators, TL43xx is internally compensated to be stable without an output capacitor between the cathode and anode. However, if it is desired to use an output capacitor Figure 6-18 can be used as a guide to assist in choosing the correct capacitor to maintain stability.