The TL431 and TL432 devices are three-terminal adjustable shunt regulators, with specified thermal stability over applicable automotive, commercial, and military temperature ranges. The output voltage can be set to any value between V_ref (approximately 2.5 V) and 36 V, with two external resistors. These devices have a typical output impedance of 0.2 Ω. Active output circuitry provides a very sharp turn-on characteristic, making these devices excellent replacements for Zener diodes in many applications, such as onboard regulation, adjustable power supplies, and switching power supplies. The TL432 device has exactly the same functionality and electrical specifications as the TL431 device, but has different pinouts for the DBV, DBZ, and PK packages.

Both the TL431 and TL432 devices are offered in three grades, with initial tolerances (at 25°C) of 0.5%, 1%, and 2%, for the B, A, and standard grade, respectively. In addition, low output drift versus temperature ensures good stability over the entire temperature range.

The TL43xxC devices are characterized for operation from 0°C to 70°C, the TL43xxI devices are characterized for operation from –40°C to 85°C, and the TL43xxQ devices are characterized for operation from –40°C to 125°C.