The LMV431, LMV431A and LMV431B are precision 1.24 V shunt regulators capable of
adjustment to 30 V. Negative feedback from the cathode to the adjust pin controls the cathode
voltage, much like a non-inverting op amp configuration (Refer to Symbol and Functional Diagrams). A two-resistor voltage divider terminated at the adjust pin
controls the gain of a 1.24 V band-gap reference. Shorting the cathode to the adjust pin (voltage
follower) provides a cathode voltage of a 1.24 V.
The LMV431, LMV431A and LMV431B have respective initial tolerances of 1.5%, 1%, and 0.5%,
and functionally lend themselves to several applications that require zener diode type performance
at low voltages. Applications include a 3 V to 2.7 V low drop-out regulator, an error amplifier in
a 3 V off-line switching regulator and even as a voltage detector. These parts are typically stable
with capacitive loads greater than 10 nF and less than 50 pF.
The LMV431, LMV431A and LMV431B provide performance at a competitive price.
