Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6959AAPE+
- Part No.:
- MAX6959AAPE+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Display Drivers
- Package:
- 16-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX6959AAPE+.pdf
- Description:
- IC DRVR 7 SEGMENT 4 DIGIT 16DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
The MAX6959AAPE+ from Maxim Integrated is a 16-pin PDIP-packaged, SMBus/I²C-compatible LED display driver IC that interfaces microprocessors to four common-cathode 7-segment digits (each with nine segments including decimal point) and up to eight discrete LEDs - while integrating dual key-scan input ports with automatic debouncing for up to eight switches. It operates from 3V to 5.5V, delivers 23mA constant-current segment drive, and supports 64-step digital brightness control. It is used in automotive-grade panel meters and industrial control front panels requiring reliable LED multiplexing and keypad interface.
For engineers reviewing the MAX6959AAPE+ datasheet, MAX6959AAPE+ pinout, MAX6959AAPE+ application, or MAX6959AAPE+ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed automotive temperature range (-40°C to +125°C), exact I²C timing compliance (400kbps), and real-world keyscan debounce behavior (41ms typical) - all specific to the MAX6959AAPE+ variant.
Technical Context
The MAX6959AAPE+ implements a fixed 4-digit multiplexed scan architecture with internal 9-segment digit drivers (SEG0–SEG8 plus IRQ/SEG9 configurable as segment or interrupt) and two dedicated input ports (INPUT1/INPUT2) supporting either general-purpose logic input or key-scan mode. Its I²C interface uses hardwired 0.8V/2.1V logic thresholds for robust 2.5V/3.3V system compatibility when V+ = 5V.
It integrates static RAM per digit, hexadecimal font decode/no-decode selection per digit, slew-rate-limited segment drivers (11mA/µs) to reduce EMI, and a 20µA shutdown mode with data retention. The IRQ/SEG9 pin is configurable via register bit to serve as open-drain interrupt output signaling debounced key events or as the ninth segment source driver.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 3V to 5.5V - enables direct interface with 3.3V microcontrollers and 5V LED anode supplies without level shifters. |
| Segment Drive Current | 23mA peak (typical) - sets maximum brightness for standard red/green/yellow LEDs at full intensity without external current limiting. |
| I²C Speed | 400kbps - supports fast host polling of key status registers and rapid display updates in real-time HMI applications. |
| Scan Rate | 510–1050Hz - ensures flicker-free display visibility across -40°C to +125°C ambient, with minimal perceptible dimming at low temperatures. |
| Keyscan Debounce Time | 30.3–63ms (guaranteed) - eliminates mechanical switch bounce without firmware overhead, enabling n-key rollover for up to eight keys. |
| Digital Brightness Control | 64-step linear adjustment - allows precise luminance tuning across varying ambient light conditions and LED aging profiles. |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +125°C - qualified for under-hood automotive instrumentation and industrial control enclosures without derating. |
Pinout & Package
MAX6959AAPE+ is supplied in a 16-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.3-inch body width and 0.1-inch lead pitch, compatible with through-hole PCB assembly and socket mounting for prototyping and service replacement.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (SDA) | Serial Data I/O | Open-drain bidirectional I²C data line requiring external pullup; supports SMBus alert response and clock stretching. |
| 2 (SCL) | Serial Clock Input | CMOS-compatible clock input with fixed 0.8V/2.1V thresholds; no internal pullup - requires external 4.7kΩ pullup for bus operation. |
| 3 (IRQ/SEG9) | Configurable Output | Register-selectable function: either 9th segment source driver (23mA) or open-drain interrupt output asserting on key debounce event. |
| 4–7, 11–15 (DIG0/SEG0–DIG3/SEG3) | Multiplexed Digit/Segment Drivers | Each pin serves dual role: sink current from digit cathode (DIGx) or source current to segment anode (SEGx); high-impedance when inactive. |
| 8 (GND) | Power Ground | Primary reference for all analog and digital circuitry; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling into LED drivers. |
| 9 (INPUT1) | Key-Scan or Logic Input | Internal 26.5µA pullup enables direct connection to matrix key rows; configured via GPIO register for keyscan or polled logic input. |
| 10 (INPUT2) | Key-Scan or Logic Input | Identical functionality to INPUT1; together with INPUT1 enables full 4×2 or 2×4 key matrix scanning with automatic debounce. |
| 16 (V+) | Positive Supply | Single 3V–5.5V rail powers all logic, drivers, and internal regulators; no separate logic supply required. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated Key-Scan Engine | Automatically scans and debounces up to eight switches using INPUT1/INPUT2 - eliminates MCU polling cycles and firmware debounce logic. |
| Configurable IRQ/SEG9 Pin | Single pin serves as either ninth segment driver or open-drain interrupt output - reduces BOM count and simplifies layout versus discrete interrupt solutions. |
| Slew-Rate-Limited Segment Drivers | 11mA/µs controlled edge rate - suppresses radiated EMI during segment switching, easing EMC compliance in industrial and automotive systems. |
| Hexadecimal Decode per Digit | Independent decode/no-decode selection for each of four digits - enables mixed alphanumeric displays (e.g., "HEAT" + numeric value) without host-side font mapping. |
| 64-Step Digital Brightness | Linear intensity scaling stored in dedicated register - allows dynamic backlight adjustment based on ambient light sensor input without changing segment current hardware. |
| Automotive Temperature Range | Full functionality guaranteed from -40°C to +125°C - supports deployment in engine control modules, HVAC panels, and dashboard clusters without thermal derating. |
Applications
| Automotive Instrument Cluster | Industrial Panel Meter |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Driving four 7-segment digits for speed, RPM, coolant temperature, and fuel level in a vehicle instrument cluster. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary LED multiplex controller and key-scan interface for menu navigation buttons. Use Value: Eliminates need for external current-setting resistors and dedicated keyscan MCU peripherals, reducing component count by ≥7 parts per unit. |
Use Scenario: Displaying measured voltage/current values on a DIN-rail mounted power meter with front-panel configuration keys. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serially driven display driver with integrated key debounce for setup mode entry and parameter selection. Use Value: Enables full HMI implementation using only two MCU GPIOs (I²C), freeing timers and interrupts for core measurement tasks. |
| Vending Machine UI | White Goods Control Panel |
|
Use Scenario: Showing product price, selection code, and change due on a beverage vending machine front panel. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-role interface handling both 4-digit LED display and 8-key matrix for product selection and payment options. Use Value: Supports n-key rollover during rapid button presses (e.g., "A1", "B2") without missed inputs or ghosting - critical for transaction reliability. |
Use Scenario: Operating cycle time, temperature setpoint, and error codes on washing machine or oven control boards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power display driver with shutdown mode (20µA) activated during standby to meet Energy Star requirements. Use Value: Maintains display RAM contents during shutdown, enabling instant resume of last-displayed state upon wake-up - improves user experience. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED display driver with keyscan applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX6958AAPE+ | No INPUT1/INPUT2 pins; SEG9 fixed as segment output; no keyscan or IRQ capability. | Only suitable for pure display-only applications without keypad interface. | Select MAX6958AAPE+ only if keyscan is unnecessary and board layout must retain identical pinout except IRQ/SEG9 function. |
| TLC59282PWR | 16-channel constant-current sink driver; no built-in keyscan, no I²C address auto-increment, no decode mode, no shutdown mode. | Requires external MCU firmware for digit multiplexing, key scanning, and brightness control - increases software load and BOM. | Choose TLC59282PWR only when driving non-multiplexed discrete LEDs or when needing >23mA per channel (up to 120mA). |
Compared with MAX6958AAPE+, the MAX6959AAPE+ adds keyscan and IRQ functionality at identical display capability and package; compared with TLC59282PWR, it delivers complete display + key HMI subsystem integration with minimal MCU resource usage and guaranteed automotive temperature operation.
Availability
MAX6959AAPE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive instrument clusters, industrial panel meters, and white goods control panels requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MAX6959AAPE+ 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, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for demanding industrial, automotive, and communications applications.
The MAX6959AAPE+ belongs to Maxim's serial interface LED driver product line, engineered specifically for space-constrained human-machine interfaces requiring integrated display driving and key-scan functionality in harsh environments.
FAQ
What is the primary function of the MAX6959AAPE+?
The MAX6959AAPE+ is a 4-digit, 9-segment LED display driver with integrated key-scan capability. It drives common-cathode 7-segment displays and discrete LEDs via an I²C/SMBus interface while automatically scanning and debouncing up to eight switches using INPUT1 and INPUT2. Its design centers on reducing MCU peripheral load in HMI applications - the MAX6959AAPE+ handles multiplexing, brightness control, font decoding, and key event detection autonomously.
Does the MAX6959AAPE+ support both I²C and SMBus protocols?
Yes, the MAX6959AAPE+ supports both I²C and SMBus protocols. Its SDA and SCL inputs use fixed 0.8V/2.1V logic thresholds, ensuring interoperability with 2.5V and 3.3V systems even when powered from 5V. It complies with SMBus Alert Response Address (ARA) and supports clock stretching, making the MAX6959AAPE+ compatible with standard I²C masters and SMBus hosts without protocol translation.
How does the IRQ/SEG9 pin function on the MAX6959AAPE+?
The IRQ/SEG9 pin on the MAX6959AAPE+ is software-configurable via the GPIO register. When set as IRQ, it asserts low (open-drain) upon detection of a debounced key press on INPUT1 or INPUT2. When set as SEG9, it sources up to 23mA to drive the ninth segment of a 9-segment digit. This dual-mode capability allows flexible system design - the MAX6959AAPE+ avoids requiring separate interrupt lines or additional segment drivers.
What is the guaranteed operating temperature range for the MAX6959AAPE+?
The MAX6959AAPE+ is fully specified over the automotive temperature range of -40°C to +125°C. All electrical parameters - including segment current (23mA), scan rate (510–1050Hz), keyscan debounce time (30.3–63ms), and I²C timing - are guaranteed across this range. This makes the MAX6959AAPE+ suitable for under-dash, under-hood, and industrial control applications where ambient extremes are expected - no derating or external thermal management is needed for the MAX6959AAPE+ itself.
Can the MAX6959AAPE+ drive bicolor LED displays?
Yes, the MAX6959AAPE+ can drive bicolor LED displays. Each digit is treated as two independent monocolor digits - for example, red and green segments of a single physical digit are assigned to separate DIGx/SEGx pins. The MAX6959AAPE+'s multiplexing architecture supports this by allowing independent control of each segment pair, and its 9-segment per digit capability accommodates both colors plus decimal points. Bicolor operation requires no special configuration beyond standard digit mapping - the MAX6959AAPE+ handles timing and current sourcing identically for all segments.
MAX6959AAPE+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Display Type:
- LED
- Configuration:
- 7 Segment + 2 Annunciators
- Interface:
- SMBus (2-Wire/I2C)
- Digits or Characters:
- 4 Digits
- Current - Supply:
- 5.9 mA
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-PDIP
MAX6959AAPE+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX6959AAPE+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX6959AAPE+ 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 MAX6959AAPE+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX6959AAPE+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX6959AAPE+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX6959AAPE+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX6959AAPE+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX6959AAPE+?
MAX6959AAPE+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX6959AAPE+ 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 MAX6959AAPE+?
For technical support, including MAX6959AAPE+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX6959AAPE+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX6959AAPE+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX6959AAPE+ 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 MAX6959AAPE+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX6959AAPE+?
All MAX6959AAPE+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX6959AAPE+, 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 MAX6959AAPE+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX6959AAPE+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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