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On Aug 8, 2025


UC3842AN Switching Controllers by ON Semiconductor – High-Performance PWM Control

The Switching Controllers UC3842AN by ON Semiconductor are precision current-mode Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) controllers designed for off-line and DC-to-DC power conversion applications. Known for their high performance and low startup current, these Switching Controllers are an ideal fit for efficient power supply designs, offering robust protection, fast transient response, and low total harmonic distortion (THD).

In this blog, we explore the technical specifications, features, use cases, and integration options for this popular IC, along with alternative choices from Texas Instruments.


Technical Specifications of UC3842AN

  • Manufacturer: ON Semiconductor

  • Part Number: UC3842AN

  • IC Type: PWM Switching Controllers

  • Input Voltage: 7.6V–30V

  • Output Voltage: Adjustable

  • Operating Frequency: Up to 500kHz

  • Start-Up Current: <1mA

  • Package: DIP-8

  • Category: Semiconductors, Integrated Circuits - ICs, Power Management ICs, Voltage Regulators & Voltage Controllers, Switching Controllers

Engineered for optimized power conversion, the UC3842AN is used extensively in AC-DC and isolated DC-DC converters.


Key Features of UC3842AN Switching Controllers

  • Fixed Frequency PWM Control with fast response

  • Low Start-Up and Operating Current for high efficiency

  • Current Mode Operation minimizes component count

  • Undervoltage Lockout with Hysteresis

  • Totem-Pole Output for efficient switching

The UC3842AN delivers outstanding performance in the most demanding power management ICs and switching controller applications.


Applications of UC3842AN

The UC3842AN is widely used in:

  • Switch-Mode Power Supplies (SMPS)

  • AC-DC and DC-DC Converters

  • Battery Chargers

  • Industrial and Consumer Electronics

  • LED Drivers

  • Embedded Power Management Circuits

These voltage regulators & voltage controllers are found in power-intensive systems requiring stable and efficient voltage control.


Wiring and Connection Overview

Pin Configuration (DIP-8):

  • Pin 1: Compensation

  • Pin 2: Voltage Feedback

  • Pin 3: Current Sense

  • Pin 4: RT/CT (Timing Resistor/Capacitor)

  • Pin 5: Ground

  • Pin 6: Output

  • Pin 7: VCC

  • Pin 8: VREF

This IC supports fast switching and tight regulation using minimal external components, making it a go-to power management IC.


Use Case Scenario: Power Supply Efficiency Upgrade

Problem: An electronics manufacturer needed to improve the power efficiency of their industrial control systems while minimizing BOM cost.

Solution: By implementing UC3842AN Switching Controllers, the design team achieved precise voltage regulation with minimal heat dissipation and compact footprint.

Result: Enhanced system reliability, lower energy consumption, and reduced component count using a single voltage regulator & voltage controller IC.


Also Available from Other Manufacturers

Looking for alternatives?

Xon Electronics also offers high-performance Switching Controllers from:

  • Texas Instruments – Trusted for robust, high-efficiency power management ICs and voltage regulators & voltage controllers.

Multiple part numbers available to match various design needs.


Download Datasheet for UC3842AN

Need detailed electrical parameters, block diagrams, or thermal characteristics?

[Download the UC3842AN Datasheet from Xon Electronics]


Why Buy from Xon Electronics?

Get genuine UC3842AN Switching Controllers from Xon Electronics with:

  • Authentic ON Semiconductor Parts
  • Shipping across USA, India, Australia, Europe & More
  • Volume Discounts for Bulk Orders
  • Easy Access to Datasheets
  • Secure Online Purchasing

We’re your trusted supplier of Semiconductors, Power Management ICs, and Integrated Circuits - ICs.


FAQs – UC3842AN Switching Controllers

Q1. What makes UC3842AN ideal for SMPS applications?
Its current-mode control ensures fast loop response and high efficiency.

Q2. What’s the start-up current of UC3842AN?
Less than 1mA, making it suitable for low-power startup conditions.

Q3. Can it support high-frequency switching?
Yes, it operates up to 500kHz.

Q4. What package is UC3842AN offered in?
DIP-8 for easy through-hole PCB mounting.

Q5. Do you ship globally?
Yes, we ship to USA, India, Australia, Europe, and other regions.


Conclusion

The UC3842AN Switching Controllers by ON Semiconductor are highly reliable, efficient, and versatile solutions for modern power supply and conversion needs. With proven performance in both industrial and consumer sectors, they are essential components for any high-performance voltage controller design.

Now available globally from Xon Electronics — delivering to USA, India, Australia, Europe, and beyond.


Looking for help? Visit our FAQ's Section to answer to all your questions

 

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