Microchip Technology CL330SG-G

Overview

CL330SG-G from Microchip Technology is a 3-channel, 30 mA fixed-output linear LED driver in an 8-lead SOIC package with heat slug, designed for constant-current sinking of three independent LED strings. It operates from 6.5 V to 90 V input, delivers ±6% current accuracy over 4–15 V output range, and features separate active-low enable pins (EN1–EN3) for per-channel PWM dimming or fault isolation. Used in LCD backlighting and indicator lamp systems requiring stable, low-noise current regulation.

For engineers reviewing the CL330SG-G datasheet, CL330SG-G pinout, CL330SG-G application, or CL330SG-G equivalent, key selection considerations include its 90 V standoff voltage, integrated overtemperature shutdown at 135°C, 84°C/W thermal resistance (θ_JA), and compatibility with shared 100 nF ceramic bypass capacitor across multiple drivers in multi-string designs.

Technical Context

The CL330SG-G implements a linear constant-current sink architecture with three independent output channels, each delivering a nominal 30 mA with ±6% tolerance over V_OUT = 4–15 V. Its internal regulator accepts 6.5–90 V input and maintains stable current despite variations in forward voltage across LED strings.

Each channel is controlled by a dedicated active-low enable pin (EN1/EN2/EN3), supporting precise PWM dimming up to 100 kHz, three-step linear dimming via output paralleling, or individual channel disablement. Overtemperature protection triggers full-channel shutdown at 135°C junction temperature with 30°C hysteresis for automatic recovery.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

CL330SG-G uses an 8-lead SOIC (narrow body) package with exposed thermal pad (heat slug) on the underside, internally connected to GND. The pad must be soldered to ≥1 cm² PCB copper area for effective thermal management.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 3-channel linear LED driver applications.

Compared with AL8863T-13 and MAX16833ATP+, the CL330SG-G uniquely combines 90 V input tolerance, true per-channel PWM dimming, and zero-EMI linear operation - making it the only option for high-voltage, noise-sensitive, multi-string LED systems requiring independent channel control.

Availability

CL330SG-G is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LCD backlighting, industrial indicator lamps, and automotive interior lighting requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for CL330SG-G 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

Microchip Technology is a global semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and timing solutions, with ISO/TS-16949 certified manufacturing and design facilities.

The CL330SG-G belongs to Microchip's linear LED driver product line, engineered specifically for high-voltage, low-noise, multi-string LED biasing in industrial, automotive, and medical display applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum output voltage range supported by the CL330SG-G?

The CL330SG-G maintains ±6% current accuracy when output voltage (V_OUT) is between 4 V and 15 V. Beyond 15 V - up to its 90 V standoff limit - output current degrades gradually; datasheet specifies 27–33 mA at V_OUT = 15–90 V. For stable 30 mA operation, keep V_OUT ≤ 15 V per channel. This constraint defines usable LED string count and forward voltage headroom in CL330SG-G designs.

Can the CL330SG-G drive more than 30 mA per channel by paralleling outputs?

Yes - the CL330SG-G supports output paralleling to increase current capacity. Connecting OUT1, OUT2, and OUT3 together yields up to 90 mA total (3 × 30 mA) with matched current sharing due to internal matching. However, thermal design must accommodate higher power dissipation: θ_JA remains 84°C/W, so PCB copper area and airflow must scale accordingly. Paralleling also disables independent channel control - all three outputs switch simultaneously.

Does the CL330SG-G require external components beyond the 100 nF bypass capacitor?

No - the CL330SG-G is a fully self-contained linear LED driver requiring only a single 100 nF ceramic capacitor from VIN to GND. Unlike adjustable-current drivers, it needs no external current-setting resistors, feedback networks, or compensation components. The 8-lead SOIC package integrates all regulation, protection, and channel control circuitry, minimizing bill-of-materials and layout complexity for CL330SG-G implementations.

How does the overtemperature protection in the CL330SG-G behave during thermal overload?

The CL330SG-G shuts down all three output channels when die temperature reaches +135°C, with automatic recovery once temperature falls by 30°C (to ~105°C). During shutdown, enable inputs remain functional and output leakage stays below 10 µA. This hysteresis prevents oscillation near the trip point and ensures robust operation in sealed enclosures or high-ambient environments where CL330SG-G may experience sustained thermal stress.

Is the underside thermal pad of the CL330SG-G electrically connected, and how should it be handled on the PCB?

Yes - the exposed underside plate of the CL330SG-G is internally connected to the GND pin (Pin 4). It must be soldered to a ≥1 cm² copper pour tied to system ground for effective thermal conduction. Leaving it floating or unconnected severely degrades thermal performance (θ_JA increases significantly), risking premature overtemperature shutdown. Plating the copper area improves solder wetting and thermal transfer in CL330SG-G production assemblies.