Microchip Technology CL8800K63-G

Overview

CL8800K63-G from Microchip Technology is a 33-lead QFN sequential linear LED driver IC designed for direct AC mains-connected LED lighting systems. It delivers up to 7.5W output (13W with heatsink), achieves >0.95 power factor and <20% THD, and supports phase-dimming compatibility via external RC network - enabling retrofit into fluorescent tube and incandescent bulb fixtures.

For engineers reviewing the CL8800K63-G datasheet, CL8800K63-G pinout, CL8800K63-G application, or CL8800K63-G equivalent, this device requires attention to tap current configuration (60–115 mA per tap), BIAS voltage rating (440 V), thermal management (θ_JA = 24°C/W), and GND-integrated heat slug layout for high-voltage LED string regulation.

Technical Context

The CL8800K63-G implements six independent linear current regulators controlled by internal sequencing logic that tracks the rectified AC sine wave. Each regulator operates at minimal V_DS during conduction to maintain 85% typical electrical efficiency and >110 lm/W LED luminous efficacy.

Current regulation is set via external resistors on SET1–SET6 pins, with precise regulation voltages (1.80–2.31 V) and thermal derating curves defined per tap. The device accepts up to 550 V on BIAS and 320 V on TAP2–TAP6, enabling operation across 100–240 VAC input ranges without magnetics or bulk capacitors.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

CL8800K63-G is housed in a 33-lead QFN package (6×6 mm body) with an exposed underside thermal slug electrically connected to GND. The package includes 18 dedicated GND pins (Pins 1–8, 19–26) and one large GND thermal plate for heatsinking.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with NCL30160DR2G and AL8862WT-7, CL8800K63-G uniquely combines multi-tap AC-line tracking, >300 V tap capability, and passive dimmer compatibility in a single IC - making it the only option for high-voltage, capacitor-free, phase-dimmable LED tube drivers.

Availability

CL8800K63-G is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for fluorescent tube retrofit, incandescent bulb replacement, and commercial downlight applications requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for CL8800K63-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 CL8800K63-G belongs to Microchip's AC-direct LED driver product line, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability mains-powered lighting where simplicity, safety, and regulatory compliance are prioritized over switching efficiency.

FAQ

What is the maximum input voltage the CL8800K63-G can handle on its BIAS pin?

The CL8800K63-G supports a BIAS pin voltage up to 440 V DC under recommended operating conditions, with an absolute maximum rating of +550 V. This allows direct connection to rectified 230 VAC mains (≈325 V peak) plus margin for transients. Operation above 440 V requires verification of thermal limits and transient protection design per DS20005357A-page 3. The CL8800K63-G must be used with appropriate creepage and clearance distances on PCB layouts handling these voltages.

How does the CL8800K63-G achieve high power factor without active PFC circuitry?

The CL8800K63-G achieves >0.95 power factor by synchronizing six linear current regulators to the AC input waveform - drawing current in discrete, overlapping intervals that closely follow the sinusoidal shape. This eliminates the phase shift and harmonic distortion typical of capacitive-input rectifiers. No inductors or active control loops are needed, and the CL8800K63-G maintains this performance across 100–240 VAC inputs without additional components.

Can the CL8800K63-G drive LED strings requiring more than 400 V total forward voltage?

Yes - the CL8800K63-G supports up to 400 V on TAP1 and 300 V on TAP2–TAP6, enabling total string voltages exceeding 2000 V when configured in series-parallel topology across all six taps. However, each individual tap's voltage rating must not be exceeded during conduction or non-conduction states. The CL8800K63-G datasheet specifies non-conducting voltage limits separately (e.g., 400 V for TAP1), and thermal design must accommodate power dissipation across all active taps simultaneously.

Is the CL8800K63-G compatible with leading-edge TRIAC dimmers?

Yes - the CL8800K63-G supports leading-edge (TRIAC) phase dimming when paired with an external RC network across the AC line, as documented in Section 3.4 of DS20005357A. The RC network generates a turn-on current spike to meet TRIAC latching current requirements. Tap1's 60 mA maximum output exceeds typical dimmer holding current (10–20 mA), ensuring stable dimming down to low light levels. Compatibility must be validated per specific dimmer model and line voltage (120 VAC vs. 230 VAC) using the CL8800K63-G reference schematics.

What thermal design guidelines apply to the CL8800K63-G's exposed thermal pad?

The CL8800K63-G's underside thermal pad must be soldered to a minimum 4.0 cm² exposed copper area with an array of thermal vias to inner/ground layers. Per DS20005357A-page 4, this achieves θ_JA = 24°C/W on a 4-layer 3×4" PCB. The pad is electrically connected to GND, so the copper area must be part of the system ground plane. For 13W operation, this thermal design prevents junction temperature from exceeding 125°C ambient - critical for long-term reliability. The CL8800K63-G's thermal performance degrades rapidly if the pad is undersized or poorly connected.