Microchip Technology CL7SG-G

Overview

CL7SG-G from Microchip Technology is a 100 mA ±5% constant-current linear LED driver in an 8-lead SOIC package with heat slug, designed for driving high-brightness LEDs from 6.5–28 V nominal supplies (up to 90 V transient rating). It features logic-level active-low enable (EN), built-in reverse polarity protection, overtemperature shutdown at 135°C, and PWM dimming capability via the EN pin. Used in flashlights and low-voltage signage.

For engineers reviewing the CL7SG-G datasheet, CL7SG-G pinout, CL7SG-G application, or CL7SG-G equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, thermal behavior, timing characteristics, real-world dimming performance, and substitution guidance for industrial lighting designs requiring robust transient immunity and precise current regulation.

Technical Context

The CL7SG-G operates as a fixed-output linear current regulator with internal pass transistor and thermal foldback. Its EN pin integrates a 100 kΩ pull-down resistor and supports both on/off control and PWM dimming with 3 µs turn-on and 0.1 µs turn-off delays.

It sustains up to 90 V supply transients without external clamping, draws only 3–10 mA quiescent current, and regulates output current across –40°C to +119°C junction temperature - with overtemperature protection activating at 135°C and hysteresis of 30°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

CL7SG-G is housed in an 8-lead SOIC (narrow body) with exposed thermal pad (heat slug), 4.90 × 3.90 mm body, 1.70 mm max height, and 1.27 mm pitch. The heat slug must be soldered to a thermal plane for reliable 100 mA operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with AL8862T-7 and NSI45020AZT1G, CL7SG-G uniquely combines 100 mA precision regulation, integrated EN control, 90 V transient immunity, and thermal protection in a compact SOIC package - making it optimal for mid-power, reliability-critical lighting where simplicity and ruggedness outweigh efficiency trade-offs.

Availability

CL7SG-G is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for flashlights, low-voltage signage, and specialty lighting requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-term industrial availability.

Supply support for CL7SG-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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in microcontrollers, analog devices, and power management ICs, with ISO/TS-16949 certified manufacturing.

The CL7 family was designed specifically for robust, low-component-count LED driving in harsh environments - targeting portable, automotive, and industrial lighting where transient immunity and thermal resilience are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output voltage compliance for CL7SG-G?

The CL7SG-G supports up to 90 V at the OUT pin under transient conditions, but for continuous operation, VOUT should remain ≤28 V per Recommended Operating Conditions. Sustained operation above 4 V drop increases junction temperature significantly and may trigger overtemperature protection unless adequate heatsinking is provided. Always verify thermal design using θJA = 84°C/W and actual PCB copper area.

Does CL7SG-G require an external current-sense resistor?

No, CL7SG-G does not require an external current-sense resistor. It integrates a precision 100 mA current source with ±5% accuracy over temperature and supply voltage. The output current is factory-trimmed and internally regulated - eliminating external sensing components and associated layout sensitivity.

Can CL7SG-G be used for PWM dimming, and what is its minimum controllable duty cycle?

Yes, CL7SG-G supports PWM dimming via its active-low EN pin. With tON = 3 µs and tOFF = 0.1 µs, it reliably handles PWM frequencies up to 100 kHz. For smooth dimming without visible steps, use ≥1 kHz PWM; the minimum practical duty cycle is ~0.1% (1 µs pulse width), though linearity degrades below 5% due to propagation delay effects.

Is the NC pin on CL7SG-G safe to connect to ground or leave floating?

Pin 6 (NC) on CL7SG-G is not internally connected and must remain unconnected - neither grounded nor tied to any signal. Connecting it may cause unpredictable behavior or damage. The datasheet explicitly states "No connection" and confirms no internal bond wire or circuit node exists at this location.

How does the built-in reverse polarity protection work in CL7SG-G?

The CL7SG-G incorporates internal MOSFET-based reverse polarity protection that blocks current flow when VDD is connected with negative polarity relative to GND. This prevents damage to the IC and downstream LEDs without requiring an external series diode - preserving forward voltage headroom and eliminating diode power loss in battery-powered applications.