Overview
The LM3914N-1, produced by Texas Instruments, is a monolithic integrated circuit designed to sense analog voltage levels and drive 10 LEDs, providing a linear analog display. This versatile device can operate in either dot or bar display mode, which is externally selectable by the user. It is capable of driving LEDs of various colors or low-current incandescent lamps. The LM3914N-1 is highly efficient, allowing operation from a single supply of less than 3V, and it includes an internal voltage reference that can be adjusted from 1.2V to 12V. The device is also expandable, enabling the creation of displays with up to 100 segments by chaining multiple LM3914N-1 ICs together.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Min | Typ | Max | Units |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | - | - | 25 | V |
| Input Signal Overvoltage | - | - | ±35 | V |
| Output Current Programmable | 2 | - | 30 | mA |
| Internal Voltage Reference | 1.2 | 1.28 | 1.34 | V |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0 | - | 70 | °C |
| Storage Temperature Range | -55 | - | 150 | °C |
| Power Dissipation (PDIP) | - | - | 1365 | mW |
Key Features
- Drives LEDs, LCDs, or Vacuum Fluorescents
- Bar or Dot Display Mode Externally Selectable by User
- Expandable to Displays of 100 Steps
- Internal Voltage Reference from 1.2V to 12V
- Operates with Single Supply of Less than 3V
- Inputs Operate Down to Ground
- Output Current Programmable from 2 mA to 30 mA
- No Multiplex Switching or Interaction Between Outputs
- Input Withstands ±35V without Damage or False Outputs
Applications
The LM3914N-1 is versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, including:
- Visual alarms and indicators
- Expanded scale meters
- Display systems for industrial and consumer electronics
- Controller and sequencer functions
- Analog voltage level indicators
Q & A
- What is the LM3914N-1 used for?
The LM3914N-1 is used to sense analog voltage levels and drive 10 LEDs, providing a linear analog display. - Can the LM3914N-1 operate in different display modes?
Yes, it can operate in either dot or bar display mode, which is externally selectable by the user. - What is the range of the internal voltage reference?
The internal voltage reference can be adjusted from 1.2V to 12V. - How many segments can be achieved by chaining multiple LM3914N-1 ICs?
Up to 100 segments can be achieved by chaining multiple LM3914N-1 ICs. - What is the minimum supply voltage required for the LM3914N-1?
The LM3914N-1 can operate with a single supply of less than 3V. - Can the LM3914N-1 withstand high input voltages?
Yes, the inputs can withstand ±35V without damage or false outputs. - What is the range of output current programmability?
The output current can be programmed from 2 mA to 30 mA. - What are some common applications of the LM3914N-1?
Common applications include visual alarms, expanded scale meters, display systems, and controller or sequencer functions. - How does the LM3914N-1 handle temperature variations?
The device is rated for operation from 0°C to +70°C and has specifications that ensure performance over this temperature range. - What precautions should be taken to prevent electrostatic damage?
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.
