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Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6956ATL+
- Part No.:
- MAX6956ATL+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Display Drivers
- Package:
- 40-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MAX6956ATL+.pdf
- Description:
- IC DRVR DSPL LED 40TQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:400
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Product details
Overview
The MAX6956ATL+ from Maxim Integrated is a 28-port, I²C-compatible LED display driver and GPIO expander in a 40-pin thin QFN-EP package. It supports configurable ports as constant-current LED sinks (1.5–24mA, 16-step), push-pull outputs (10mA sink/4.5mA source), or Schmitt inputs with optional pullup. Seven ports feature transition detection for interrupt-driven monitoring. It operates from 2.5V to 5.5V across –40°C to +125°C and targets embedded panel meters and industrial controllers requiring mixed LED/GPIO control.
For engineers reviewing the MAX6956ATL+ datasheet, MAX6956ATL+ pinout, MAX6956ATL+ application, or MAX6956ATL+ equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, exact port configuration logic, thermal design guidance for the exposed-pad QFN, real-world I²C timing constraints (400kbps, tHD,DAT ≤ 900ns), and validated alternatives for LED/GPIO consolidation in space-constrained industrial displays.
Technical Context
The MAX6956ATL+ implements a dual-role architecture: each of its 28 ports (P4–P31) is individually programmable via register pairs (0x09–0x0F) as either a constant-current LED sink (with ISET resistor setting global max current) or a bidirectional GPIO with Schmitt-trigger input and selectable internal pullup. Its I²C interface uses four-level address encoding (AD0/AD1) to support up to 16 devices on one bus.
Transition detection is hardware-accelerated on ports P24–P30 only, with maskable status flagging and interrupt assertion on P31. Shutdown mode forces all ports to high-impedance inputs while preserving register state, drawing ≤11µA at full temperature range - critical for low-power industrial monitoring systems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Port Count | 28 configurable I/O ports (P4 to P31), all usable as LED drivers or GPIO - enables single-chip control of multi-digit CA displays plus system monitoring signals. |
| LED Drive Current | 16-step digitally adjustable sink current per port, 1.5mA to 24mA (at V+ = 5.5V, VLED = 2.4V) - allows precise brightness tuning across segments without external current-setting resistors. |
| I²C Interface | 400kbps compatible, 7-bit slave address with AD0/AD1 4-level selection (16 addresses) - supports dense multi-device LED/GPIO networks on shared buses. |
| Supply Range | 2.5V to 5.5V operation - interoperable with both 3.3V microcontrollers and legacy 5V industrial logic. |
| Temperature Range | –40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood automotive instrumentation and factory-floor panel meters. |
| Shutdown Current | ≤11µA maximum over full temperature range - enables always-on monitoring with ultra-low standby power. |
| GPIO Output Drive | Push-pull outputs: 10mA sink / 4.5mA source at V+ = 5.5V - sufficient to directly drive small relays, optocouplers, or logic-level indicators. |
Pinout & Package
MAX6956ATL+ uses a 40-pin thin QFN-EP (exposed pad) package with 0.5mm pitch. The exposed pad must be soldered to a PCB ground plane for thermal management and EMI reduction. Pin numbering follows standard QFN top-view orientation (pin 1 at top-left corner).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| V+ | Positive supply input | Bypass with ≥0.047µF capacitor to GND; supports 2.5V–5.5V operation - determines logic levels and LED current compliance voltage. |
| GND (pins 2,3,37,38,39) | Ground reference | Multiple dedicated GND pins reduce impedance; EP pad must connect to solid ground plane for thermal dissipation (2105mW max PD). |
| SDA | I²C serial data I/O | Open-drain output with internal weak pullup; requires external 4.7kΩ pullup - handles bidirectional data transfer and ACK signaling. |
| SCL | I²C serial clock input | CMOS input; requires external 4.7kΩ pullup if master has open-drain output - synchronizes all register reads/writes. |
| AD0, AD1 | Slave address select inputs | Each accepts GND/V+/SCL/SDA; sets bits A1/A0 of 7-bit I²C address (100xxxxx) - enables 16 unique addresses on one bus. |
| ISET | LED segment current reference | Connects to GND via RISET (e.g., 39kΩ → 24mA max); sets global current scale for all 28 LED ports - eliminates per-segment resistors. |
| P4–P31 | Configurable I/O ports | 28 bidirectional terminals; configured per register pair (0x09–0x0F) as LED sink, push-pull output, or Schmitt input with/without pullup - provides flexible mixed-signal peripheral expansion. |
| P31 (INT) | Interrupt output | Open-drain active-low signal asserted when masked transition detected on P24–P30 - enables event-driven firmware without polling. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Per-port configuration flexibility | Each of 28 ports independently set as LED driver, push-pull output, or Schmitt input - eliminates need for separate LED drivers and GPIO expanders in compact HMI designs. |
| Hardware transition detection | Dedicated logic on P24–P30 detects rising/falling edges and asserts interrupt on P31 - reduces MCU polling overhead in real-time status monitoring applications. |
| 16-step LED current control | Digital adjustment of sink current in 1.5mA increments up to 24mA - enables consistent brightness calibration across segments without analog trimming. |
| Thermally optimized QFN-EP | 40-pin thin QFN with exposed pad; 26.3mW/°C derating above +70°C - supports sustained 28-port LED drive in enclosed industrial enclosures. |
| Wide-voltage I²C compatibility | Input thresholds defined as 0.3×V+ / 0.7×V+ for SDA/SCL - ensures robust communication across 2.5V–5.5V supply range without level shifters. |
Applications
| Panel Meters | Industrial Controllers |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Driving 4-digit common-anode LED displays with decimal points and status LEDs on DIN-rail mounted metering modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: LED driver and GPIO expander - manages digit segments, DP, and indicator LEDs while reading front-panel button inputs. Use Value: Single MAX6956ATL+ replaces discrete transistors, current-limiting resistors, and a separate GPIO expander - reducing BOM count by >12 components and PCB area by 35%. |
Use Scenario: Monitoring machine status (run/stop/fault) and controlling local indicators in PLC I/O modules operating in harsh factory environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Configurable I/O hub - seven transition-detect ports monitor emergency stop inputs and sensor edges; remaining ports drive status LEDs. Use Value: Hardware-based edge detection on P24–P30 eliminates software debouncing latency - ensures sub-100µs response to critical safety events. |
| Set-Top Boxes | White Goods |
|
Use Scenario: Controlling front-panel 7-segment channel display and activity LEDs in cable/satellite receivers with tight thermal budgets. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power LED driver - drives segments at 8mA typical using ISET scaling, with shutdown mode enabling <11µA standby current. Use Value: 2.5V–5.5V operation allows direct connection to 3.3V SoC I²C bus; QFN-EP package dissipates heat efficiently in sealed plastic enclosures. |
Use Scenario: Managing display digits, cycle-status LEDs, and door-switch inputs in washing machines and dishwashers exposed to humidity and temperature cycling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Ruggedized I/O interface - Schmitt inputs tolerate noisy appliance wiring; –40°C to +125°C rating covers condenser heat and ambient extremes. Use Value: Internal pullups eliminate external resistors on door-switch lines; transition detection on P24–P30 triggers immediate UI updates when lid opens/closes. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver and I/O expander applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX6957ATL+ | SPI interface instead of I²C; identical 28-port functionality, LED current range, and QFN-EP package. | Required where host MCU lacks I²C or prioritizes deterministic SPI timing over bus arbitration. | Select MAX6957ATL+ only when SPI is mandated; pinout and register map differ - not drop-in replaceable. |
| MAX7300ATG+ | 28-port I²C GPIO expander only - no LED constant-current drivers; 24mA sink capability retained but no ISET or 16-step control. | Suitable for pure digital I/O expansion where LED driving is handled separately (e.g., via discrete FETs). | Choose MAX7300ATG+ when LED current precision is unnecessary and cost reduction is primary - saves ~$0.45/unit but adds external LED circuitry. |
Compared with MAX6956ATL+, MAX6957ATL+ trades I²C flexibility for SPI determinism and MAX7300ATG+ sacrifices integrated LED control for lower gate count and cost - making MAX6956ATL+ optimal for space-constrained, mixed-signal HMI designs needing calibrated brightness and minimal component count.
Availability
MAX6956ATL+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for panel meters, industrial controllers, and white goods requiring stable component supply, extended temperature operation, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for MAX6956ATL+ 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
Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) designs precision analog and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications applications - emphasizing reliability, integration, and wide-operating-range performance.
The MAX6956 product line delivers integrated LED display drivers with GPIO expansion, targeting human-machine interfaces where minimizing external components and board space is critical in thermally demanding environments.
FAQ
What is the maximum LED segment current supported by the MAX6956ATL+?
The MAX6956ATL+ supports up to 24mA per LED segment when V+ = 5.5V and VLED = 2.4V, set globally via the ISET pin and a single external resistor (e.g., 39kΩ). Current is digitally adjustable in 16 equal steps from 1.5mA to 24mA - all 28 ports share this scalable current reference. This eliminates per-segment resistors and simplifies brightness calibration in the MAX6956ATL+ design.
Does the MAX6956ATL+ support true I²C bus arbitration and multi-master operation?
Yes, the MAX6956ATL+ fully complies with I²C protocol timing (400kbps, tHD,DAT ≤ 900ns, tSU,STA ≥ 0.6µs) and supports multi-master operation. When multiple masters share the bus, a repeated START condition must be used between address-pointer setup and read - preventing bus takeover during register access. This behavior is documented in the MAX6956ATL+ datasheet Figure 10 and Table 4.
How is transition detection implemented on the MAX6956ATL+ and which pins support it?
Transition detection is hardware-implemented on ports P24 through P30 only. Each can be individually masked via the Transition Detect Mask register (0x06). A logic-level change triggers a status bit in the Transition Status register and optionally asserts the open-drain INT signal on P31. This offloads edge-detection processing from the host MCU - a key capability confirmed for the MAX6956ATL+ in the Detailed Description section.
Can the MAX6956ATL+ drive common-cathode (CC) LED displays?
No, the MAX6956ATL+ is designed exclusively for common-anode (CA) LED configurations. Its LED driver ports operate as constant-current sinks - connecting to LED anodes via the display's common cathode return path. Driving CC displays would require sourcing current, which the MAX6956ATL+ does not support. This limitation is explicitly stated in the General Description and Pin Description sections of the MAX6956ATL+ datasheet.
What is the role of the exposed pad (EP) on the MAX6956ATL+ QFN package?
The exposed pad (EP) on the MAX6956ATL+ 40-pin thin QFN is not electrically connected internally - it serves solely as a thermal and mechanical interface. It must be soldered to a large PCB copper pour tied to GND to achieve the rated 26.3mW/°C thermal derating and 2105mW maximum power dissipation. Failure to connect EP degrades thermal performance and risks exceeding junction temperature limits - a requirement specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table for MAX6956ATL+.
MAX6956ATL+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 40-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Display Type:
- LED
- Configuration:
- -
- Interface:
- I2C
- Digits or Characters:
- -
- Current - Supply:
- 180 µA
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 40-TQFN (6x6)
MAX6956ATL+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX6956ATL+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX6956ATL+ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX6956ATL+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX6956ATL+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX6956ATL+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX6956ATL+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX6956ATL+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX6956ATL+?
MAX6956ATL+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX6956ATL+ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX6956ATL+?
For technical support, including MAX6956ATL+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX6956ATL+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX6956ATL+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX6956ATL+ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX6956ATL+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX6956ATL+?
All MAX6956ATL+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX6956ATL+, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX6956ATL+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX6956ATL+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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