LM4050QAIM3X5.0/NOPB

PMIC - Voltage Reference

The LM4050QAIM3X5.0/NOPB is a voltage reference product. Designed, developed, and shipped by Texas Instruments, the LM4050QAIM3X5.0/NOPB is part of their extensive line ofvoltage references. This device is a three terminal bandgap voltage reference.

The bandgap voltage reference is the fundamental component that helps the LM4050QAIM3X5.0/NOPB perform the task of providing a stable voltage output regardless of input voltage changes and other environmental factors that usually affect the precision of analog component values.

This product can also be used as a precision current source. It provides a wide temperature operating range from -40C to +125C, making it an ideal component for application in extreme environmental conditions.

Applications

Because the LM4050QAIM3X5.0/NOPB is a voltage reference device, it is mainly used in two main application fields, which are analog signal management and precision power supply design. This component can be applied in the following:

• Analog-to-Digital/ Digital-to-Analog Converters
• Linear Regulators and Controllers
• Battery-Coupled Power Source Systems
• Precision Operational Amplifiers and Comparators
• Integrated Graded Reference Monitors
• Data Acquisition Buffers

Working Principle

The LM4050QAIM3X5.0/NOPB operates using a bandgap voltage reference (Vref). This source of invariable voltage is closely related to the base-emitter junction of a bipolar transistor, which is temperature compensated and has a fixed value equal to 0.4V (Vbe) for a specific temperature. The voltage reference is achieved by the arms of the differential pair of the transistor that carries out a switching process.

The output voltage of the LM4050QAIM3X5.0/NOPB is proportional to 0.4V multiplied by a gain factor fixed by the manufacturer. Once the device is connected to a power supply and the right loads, the voltage reference works in the following way: The differential transistors are working at the same percentage of their maximum current while at the same time they are working at the same temperature.

Therefore, the voltage difference between each arm is fixed and can be monitored. By controlling the currents at both arms, the total current from the device is regulated and produces a voltage reference with a more precise output. The resolution of the output voltage is regulated by the gain factor, which is designed by the manufacturer.

Pros and Cons

The LM4050QAIM3X5.0/NOPB voltage reference device has several advantages over other components of its kind. For one, its voltage reference has a minimum drift over operating temperature range, making it extremely reliable in noisy environments with vast temperature changes. The device also includes very fast output voltage adjustment, making it easy to use in applications requiring tight regulation requirements.

On the downside, however, power dissipation levels are significantly higher than many other similar reference products. In addition, the output voltage cannot be adjusted manually and it has a relatively higher noise voltage compared to some other reference products.

Conclusion

The LM4050QAIM3X5.0/NOPB voltage reference from Texas Instruments offers a great solution to many complex electronic applications. Its precision voltage reference helps stabilize the output of other components, while its wide operating temperature range makes it ideal for high-performance analog components in extreme environments.

The high power dissipation level and inability to manually adjust the output voltage may be limiting factors in its use, but overall, the LM4050QAIM3X5.0/NOPB is a reliable and cost effective voltage reference device.