Description
The LM3914 is a versatile, monolithic integrated circuit that senses analog voltage levels and drives ten LEDs, providing a linear analog display. Unlike logarithmic drivers, the LM3914 displays signals in a 10-step linear scale, making it the perfect choice for battery capacity indicators, temperature readouts, and other linear sensor monitoring applications.
The device contains an adjustable voltage reference and ten comparators that sequentially switch on LEDs as the input voltage rises. It can be configured for either “dot” mode (only one LED active) or “bar” mode (LEDs light up in a sequence), and it includes internal constant-current regulation for the LEDs, eliminating the need for external current-limiting resistors.
Note: Product images are for reference only. The actual product may vary in appearance depending on manufacturer marking. Please refer to the official datasheet for detailed pin configurations and application schematics.
Features
- Linear Scaling: 10-step linear response, ideal for proportional voltage measurement.
- Display Modes: User-selectable “Dot” or “Bar” display mode.
- Current Control: Drives LEDs directly with programmable constant current, eliminating external resistors.
- Expandability: Multiple chips can be cascaded for displays with more than 10 LEDs.
- Input Flexibility: Operates from a wide range of input voltages; reference voltage is adjustable.
Benefits
- Simplifies the design of visual indicators for analog sensors.
- Reduces component count and PCB space by integrating current-limiting circuitry.
- Provides stable, reliable linear visual feedback for varied instrumentation.
- Highly versatile for both simple and complex display requirements.
Applications
- Battery Level Indicators
- Temperature Monitoring Displays
- Analog Sensor Readouts (e.g., pressure, light levels)
- Voltmeter/Multimeter Visualizers
- Industrial Control Panel Indicators
Package Includes
- 1 x LM3914 LED Dot/Bar Display Driver IC (DIP-18)
Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Name | LM3914 |
| Device Type | Linear LED Display Driver |
| Package / Case | DIP-18 |
| Mounting Type | Through Hole |
| Shipping Weight | 0.001 kg |
| Shipping Dimensions | 4 × 4 × 1 cm |






