Diodes Incorporated AP8801M8G-13

Overview

AP8801M8G-13 from Diodes Incorporated is a constant-current step-down DC/DC LED driver IC supporting up to 500mA output, 8–48V input, and 700kHz switching frequency. It drives up to 13 series-connected LEDs with built-in open-circuit protection and dual-mode dimming (PWM or analog). Used in commercial lighting systems where uniform brightness and compact layout are critical.

For engineers reviewing the AP8801M8G-13 datasheet, AP8801M8G-13 pinout, AP8801M8G-13 application, or AP8801M8G-13 equivalent, key selection criteria include LED current accuracy over input voltage range, thermal performance in MSOP-8, CTRL pin dimming interface compatibility, and SO-8 vs. MSOP-8 package trade-offs for PCB area and thermal resistance.

Technical Context

The AP8801 operates as a current-mode buck converter with internal 500mA MOSFET switch and 200mV SET-pin current-sense threshold. Its control loop regulates LED current by adjusting duty cycle based on feedback from the SET resistor, independent of LED forward voltage variation.

Dimming is implemented via the CTRL pin: analog voltage (0.3–2.5V) scales output current from 25% to 200% of nominal, while PWM signals (≤500Hz, open-drain driven) enable high-resolution brightness control. Built-in soft-start and open-LED protection ensure robust startup and fault handling.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

AP8801M8G-13 uses the MSOP-8 package (3.0mm × 4.9mm, 0.65mm pitch), optimized for space-constrained LED driver designs. Thermal vias and 2oz copper recommended for thermal management.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver applications.

Compared with AL8861PSP-13 and MPQ4425AGU-AEC1-P, AP8801M8G-13 uniquely supports both analog and PWM dimming in a thermally efficient MSOP-8 package, making it optimal for industrial and commercial lighting where design flexibility and thermal headroom are prioritized over automotive qualification or ultra-high current.

Availability

AP8801M8G-13 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for commercial lighting, appliance backlighting, and architectural accent lighting requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant green packaging, and compact MSOP-8 thermal performance.

Supply support for AP8801M8G-13 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 manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and ICs, specializing in power management, signal integrity, and lighting solutions for industrial, consumer, and automotive markets.

The AP8801 belongs to Diodes' LED driver product line, engineered specifically for high-efficiency, constant-current step-down operation in space- and thermally constrained lighting applications-emphasizing simplicity, reliability, and compliance with global environmental standards.

FAQ

What is the maximum number of LEDs the AP8801M8G-13 can drive in series?

The AP8801M8G-13 can drive up to thirteen LEDs in series, depending on their forward voltage. At 48V input and typical 3.2V VF per white LED, it supports up to 14 LEDs; however, the datasheet specifies "up to thirteen" to maintain regulation margin and thermal safety across process and temperature extremes. Derating applies above 10 LEDs at high ambient temperatures.

How does the CTRL pin function for analog dimming?

The CTRL pin accepts a DC voltage from 0.3V to 2.5V to scale LED current from 25% to 200% of the nominal value set by R_SET. At 1.25V, output equals nominal current; at 2.5V, it doubles. Input impedance is ~50kΩ, so drive sources must source/sink sufficient current-microcontroller GPIOs require series limiting resistors to avoid exceeding 2.5V absolute max rating.

Is the AP8801M8G-13 pin-compatible with the SO-8 version (AP8801SG-13)?

No-AP8801M8G-13 (MSOP-8) and AP8801SG-13 (SO-8) share identical electrical functionality and pin functions but differ physically: MSOP-8 has 0.65mm pitch and 3.0mm × 4.9mm body, while SO-8 uses 1.27mm pitch and 4.9mm × 6.0mm body. Layouts are not interchangeable; separate PCB footprints and thermal pad designs are required for each package.

What thermal design guidance applies to the MSOP-8 package at full 500mA load?

For continuous 500mA operation in MSOP-8, Diodes recommends a 2" × 2" FR-4 PCB with 2oz copper, minimum pad layout per datasheet, and ≥6 thermal vias (0.3mm diameter) under the exposed pad connecting to an internal ground plane. This achieves ≤70°C case temperature at +25°C ambient; reducing copper area or omitting vias requires current derating per Figure 20's derating curve.