IC LED VU Scale Meter Driver

LED VU Meter Driver IC for Precision Audio Level Indication

The NTE1866 is a monolithic integrated circuit specifically engineered for driving 5-point LED bar scale VU meters. This IC is widely used in audio level indication systemssuch as radio cassette recorders, audio amplifiers, and signal monitoring panelswhere both precision and reliability are essential.

Key Features & Technical Specifications

• Display Capacity: Drives up to 5 LEDs in bar graph configuration, with a level range of 13dB to +17dB for wide dynamic audio signal representation.
• Input Compatibility: Integrated rectifying amplifier allows for use with both AC and DC input signals, supporting flexible application in a variety of audio circuits.
• Consistent Brightness: Features internally regulated LED drive current, ensuring uniform LED luminosity even when supply voltages fluctuate.
• Stable Reference: In-built reference voltage guarantees steady and accurate display output regardless of supply line variations.
• Supply Voltage Range: Operates from 3.5V to 16V (single supply).
• Package: 9-Lead Single-In-Line Package (SIP) for easy integration into PCB designs.

Electrical Characteristics

• Power Dissipation: 715mW max
• Operating Temperature: 25C to +70C
• Number of Channels: 1

Typical Applications

• VU meter displays for audio devices
• Signal level meters
• Visual level monitoring in recording and broadcasting equipment

Usage & Controls

The NTE1866 IC simplifies LED bar graph VU meter construction by integrating rectification, reference voltage, and current regulation into a single package. To use, connect your AC or DC audio signal to the input, supply a voltage within the 3.5V16V range, and interface the five LEDs as indicated in the datasheet circuit examples. Adjust the external reference and input resistors as required for your signal level and desired display range.

Part Number: NTE1866

This part is the equivalent replacement for the following:

46-131511-3, 4822-209-73037, 482220973037, 8-759-961-44, BA6144, ECG1866, NTE1866, SK10496, SK10496/1866