Diodes Incorporated AL8116EV1

Overview

AL8116 from Diodes Incorporated is a flexible 0–10V dimming signal interface controller that converts three input types-0–10V DC, 0–100% PWM (0.5–5 kHz), and 0–100 kΩ potentiometer-into a precise open-drain PWM output for LED driver control. It operates from 10V to 56V VCC, delivers ±2.5% output duty cycle accuracy, and supports isolated dimming via opto-coupler in commercial LED luminaires.

For engineers reviewing the AL8116 datasheet, AL8116 pinout, AL8116 application, or AL8116 equivalent, this device enables robust multi-mode dimming interface design with adjustable DIM bias current (30–300 μA), selectable minimum clamped duty cycles (2–8%), internal over-temperature protection (135°C trip), and SOT26 package integration for space-constrained lighting control systems.

Technical Context

The AL8116 integrates an analog-to-digital converter, 28-step microcontroller, oscillator, and PWM mode detector to auto-identify input type (voltage, PWM, or potentiometer) based on DIM pin slew rate (>3 V/μs for PWM detection) and voltage thresholds. Its pre-regulator and UVLO circuit enforce stable startup at VCC_ON = 7.0 V and shutdown at VCC_OFF = 6.0 V.

It implements dual current sources: one (ISET × KDIM = 4×) sets DIM pin bias current for active/passive 0–10V compatibility, and another (ISET × KCLAMP = 0.4×) configures CLAMP pin voltage to select discrete minimum output duty points (2%, 4%, 6%, or 8%). The open-drain OUT pin sinks up to 20 mA with <200 mV low-level drop at 2 mA.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT26 (Type CJ) package: 2.9 mm × 2.8 mm × 1.15 mm, 6-pin surface-mount, matte tin-plated leads, moisture sensitivity level 3.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dimming interface controller applications.

Compared with NCL30160 and UCC28810, the AL8116 uniquely delivers triple-input compatibility, programmable minimum duty clamping, and true secondary-side isolation readiness - making it the only solution that supports seamless migration between legacy 0–10V, modern PWM, and mechanical potentiometer controls in a single footprint.

Availability

AL8116 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for commercial LED luminaires, isolated primary-side LED drivers, and potentiometer-based architectural lighting requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for AL8116 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Diodes Incorporated is a global semiconductor manufacturer specializing in discrete, analog, and mixed-signal solutions for power management, signal integrity, and lighting applications.

The AL8116 belongs to Diodes' LED lighting control product line, engineered specifically to simplify dimming interface design in commercial and industrial LED systems while minimizing external components and board space.

FAQ

What input types does the AL8116 support, and how does it detect them?

The AL8116 supports three input types: 0–10 V DC, 0.5–5 kHz PWM, and 0–100 kΩ potentiometer. Detection is automatic: PWM mode activates when DIM pin voltage transitions >3 V/μs across 1.2–3.2 V for eight consecutive cycles; otherwise, it interprets the signal as DC voltage or potentiometer-derived voltage based on steady-state level and bias current flow.

How is the minimum output duty cycle configured, and what values are available?

The minimum output duty cycle is set via a resistor (RCLAMP) between the CLAMP pin and GND. Four discrete clamping points are supported: 2% (RCLAMP ≈ 0 Ω), 4% (300 kΩ), 6% (150 kΩ), and 8% (0 Ω short). When RCLAMP ≥ 510 kΩ or open, clamping is disabled and output duty reaches 0%. Configuration is hardware-only-no firmware or register writes required.

Can the AL8116 drive an opto-coupler directly, and what are the key interface considerations?

Yes-the open-drain OUT pin sinks up to 20 mA with <200 mV saturation voltage at 2 mA, enabling direct drive of standard LED-BJT opto-couplers (e.g., PC817, TLP183). Key considerations include selecting an opto-coupler with CTR ≥ 50% to ensure sufficient current transfer, limiting series resistance to maintain ≥5 mA LED current, and verifying switching times (t_R/t_F) < 10 μs to preserve PWM fidelity at 1.5 kHz.

What thermal protection behavior does the AL8116 exhibit during overtemperature events?

At junction temperature ≥135°C (typical), the AL8116 disables the OUT pin by placing it in high-impedance (open-drain off) state. This halts dimming output and removes load from the downstream LED driver. Recovery is fully automatic: once junction temperature falls below 115°C (135°C – 20°C hysteresis), normal PWM operation resumes without reset or power cycle.