ON Semiconductor has introduced a series of two-terminal linear constant current regulators dedicated for driving current in automotive, industrial signage and architectural LED lighting applications. The series are based on self biased transistor technology and are targeted for a broad range of LED application with varying input voltage. By regulating the voltage over the wide range, the devices ensure constant brightness over the operating voltage range. The series is designed with a negative temperature coefficient to protect LEDs from thermal runaway at extreme voltage and operating temperatures.

The NSI45 series of constant current regulators are offered in 20 milliamp (mA), 25 mA and 30 mA device options available in a SOD-123 package and in a SOT-223 package. These devices are available in plus/minus (±)10 percent and (±15) percent steady state regulated current (Ireg) tolerance. The series is rated at 45 volts (V) with operating temperature range of -40o C to 85o C and maximum junction temperature of 150o C. The SOD-123 package is 3.7 mm x 1.6 mm x 1.2 mm surface mount package and can dissipate 230 milliwatts (mW) of power at 85 oC with 500 mm/ 1 ounce copper on the board. The SOT-223 is 7.0 mm x 6.5 mm x 1.6 mm surface mount package, dissipates 630 mW of power at 85oC with 500 mm/ 1 ounce copper on the board and is ideal for extreme thermal operating environments.

The devices are qualified to stringent automotive standard of AEC101. In addition, these devices are lead-free RoHS compliant and use halogen-free mold compound. The NSI45 in SOD-123 package is priced at $0.0545 per unit in 10,000 quantities. The NSI450 in SOT-223 package is priced at $0.090 per unit in 10,000 quantities.