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Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6961ATH+
- Part No.:
- MAX6961ATH+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Display Drivers
- Package:
- 44-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MAX6961ATH+.pdf
- Description:
- IC DRVR LED 8X8 44-TQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,847
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Product details
Overview
MAX6961ATH+ from Maxim Integrated is a 4-wire serially interfaced, cathode-row LED display driver for 8 × 8 matrix displays. It supports monocolor or RGY (red/green/yellow) configurations with two-step pixel-level intensity control, 256-step global panel brightness, and analog/digital digit-by-digit current calibration. Designed for indoor signage and industrial message boards, it delivers up to 40mA peak segment current per column while operating from 2.7V–3.6V.
For engineers reviewing the MAX6961ATH+ datasheet, MAX6961ATH+ pinout, MAX6961ATH+ application, or MAX6961ATH+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its 44-pin TQFN-EP package, dual 8×8 monocolor or single RGY support, open/short LED detection, local 3-wire bus synchronization for multi-driver panels, and compatibility with external pass transistors for RGB/high-voltage panels.
Technical Context
The MAX6961ATH+ implements frame-modulated 2-bit-per-pixel intensity control using a 12-frame superframe for arithmetic (off, 1/3, 2/3, full) or geometric (off, 1/4, 1/2, full) scaling-enabling 4-color monocolor or 16-color RGY output. Its architecture uses shared 4-wire host interface and autonomous 3-wire local bus to allocate memory map addresses across up to 256 interconnected drivers.
It features dual RISET pins (RISET0/RISET1) enabling per-digit analog current trimming between 20mA and 40mA, plus digital digit intensity scaling in 256 steps relative to global panel brightness. The driver supports burst white mode, slew-rate-limited segment outputs for EMI reduction, and automatic plane switching from 63Hz to one frame per 63 seconds with interrupt capability.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 2.7V to 3.6V - Enables direct operation from standard 3.3V logic rails with minimal headroom loss across drivers. |
| Peak Segment Current | 40mA (digit 0/1 configurable via RISET0/RISET1) - Supports high-brightness indoor LEDs; 20mA option extends low-VCC operation down to 2.7V. |
| Interface Speed | 20MHz serial clock - Allows rapid update of large display panels; supports 9.83 Mbps with 24-bit direct addressing for animation. |
| Intensity Control | 256-step global PWM + 2-bit-per-pixel frame modulation - Enables fade effects, background lighting compensation, and 4-color (monocolor) or 16-color (RGY) rendering. |
| Operating Temp | −40°C to +125°C - Qualified for industrial and automotive under-hood environments without derating. |
| LED Fault Detection | Open-circuit and short-circuit detection per LED - Reduces system-level diagnostic overhead and enables real-time display health monitoring. |
| Memory Planes | 2 planes (2-bit mode) or 4 planes (1-bit mode) - Enables double-buffered animation with hardware-controlled plane switching and interrupt on change. |
Pinout & Package
MAX6961ATH+ uses a 44-pin TQFN-EP (6mm × 6mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed pad connected to GND for thermal management and EMI suppression.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| GND (Pins 1,6,11,12,44) | Ground reference | Primary return path for all internal circuitry and segment sink currents; EP pad must be soldered to PCB ground plane. |
| ROW1–ROW8 (Pins 2–5,7–10) | Cathode-row sink drivers | Eight constant-current sinks for display cathode rows; each handles up to 750mA total sink current across multiplexed frames. |
| COL1–COL16 (Pins 19–21,23–27,29–33,35–37) | Anode-column source drivers | Sixteen constant-current sources (up to 48mA each) for LED anode columns; supports 8×16 matrix or dual 8×8 digits. |
| OSC (Pin 13) | Master clock input | Accepts 1MHz–8.5MHz CMOS clock; internal dead-clock protection disables outputs if frequency drops below 50kHz. |
| CS/DIN/CLK/RST (Pins 14–18) | 4-wire serial interface | Chip-select, data-in, clock, and reset signals enable daisy-chainable configuration with global command broadcast capability. |
| ADDOUT/ADDIN/ADDCLK (Pins 39–41) | Local 3-wire address bus | Automatically assigns contiguous memory map addresses across multiple drivers; ADDOUT doubles as plane-change interrupt output. |
| RISET0/RISET1 (Pins 42–43) | Digit current programming | Resistor-to-GND or open/GND selection sets digit 0/1 segment current to 20mA or 40mA; enables batch-to-batch color matching. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 256-step global panel intensity | Enables smooth fade-in/fade-out transitions and ambient light compensation without host CPU intervention. |
| Digit-by-digit analog current calibration | RISET0/RISET1 pins allow per-digit trim from 20mA to 40mA using external resistors-critical for RGY color balance and multi-batch display uniformity. |
| Open/short LED detection | Hardware-level fault reporting per LED reduces firmware diagnostic burden and supports predictive maintenance in deployed signage. |
| Slew-rate-limited segment drivers | Reduces EMI emissions during high-speed multiplexing-eliminates need for external RC snubbers in noise-sensitive applications. |
| Automatic plane switching with interrupt | Hardware-managed frame sequencing from 63Hz to 1/63Hz frees host processor from timing-critical display refresh tasks. |
Applications
| Industrial Message Boards | Gaming Machine Displays |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Indoor factory floor message boards showing production metrics, safety alerts, and shift schedules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Cathode-row LED driver managing dual 8×8 red digits or single RGY 8×8 matrix with real-time intensity adjustment. Use Value: 256-step global brightness control compensates for ambient lighting changes; open/short detection prevents silent display failures. |
Use Scenario: Slot machine front-panel animations with multicolor symbols and dynamic brightness transitions. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Frame-modulated RGY driver delivering 16-color output via 2-bit-per-pixel intensity control and automatic plane switching. Use Value: Hardware-based plane sequencing at 63Hz enables smooth animations without CPU load; burst white mode supports attention-grabbing flash effects. |
| Audio/Video Equipment UI | Industrial Control Panels |
Use Scenario: Studio mixer channel meters and status indicators requiring precise LED intensity grading. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Monocolor 8×8 driver with digit-level current calibration ensuring consistent brightness across 16 segments. Use Value: Analog RISET trimming and digital 256-step scaling allow fine-grained luminance matching across batches and operating temperatures. |
Use Scenario: HMI panels in PLC cabinets displaying alarm states, process values, and operational modes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust LED driver operating from 2.7V–3.6V supply with −40°C to +125°C rating for harsh industrial environments. Use Value: Slew-rate-limited outputs minimize conducted EMI in electrically noisy control cabinets; shutdown mode retains display data at <600µA. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED display driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX6960ATH+ | Supports both 1-bit and 2-bit per pixel intensity control; includes RGB 2-bit mode not available in MAX6961ATH+. | Required for RGB panels or applications needing full 64-color output; adds register complexity for monocolor/RGY use. | Select MAX6960ATH+ only when RGB support or flexible 1-/2-bit mode per panel is required; MAX6961ATH+ simplifies design for RGY/monocolor-only systems. |
| MAX6962ATH+ | Offers four-step (2-bit) intensity control for monocolor displays only; lacks RGY support and PI bit restriction of MAX6961ATH+. | Optimized for high-resolution monocolor signage where RGY functionality is unnecessary and 4-color depth suffices. | Choose MAX6962ATH+ for cost-sensitive monocolor-only designs requiring maximum intensity resolution without RGY overhead. |
Compared with MAX6960ATH+, MAX6961ATH+ removes RGB capability but retains RGY support and simplifies register configuration by fixing the PI bit; compared with MAX6962ATH+, it adds RGY compatibility at the cost of slightly reduced monocolor intensity flexibility.
Availability
MAX6961ATH+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial message boards, gaming machine displays, audio/video equipment UIs, and industrial control panels requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MAX6961ATH+ 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 industrial, automotive, and communications applications.
The MAX6960–MAX6963 family was developed specifically for high-reliability, multiplexed LED signage-emphasizing low EMI, batch-to-batch display uniformity, and simplified multi-driver panel scalability via local 3-wire address allocation.
FAQ
What display configurations does the MAX6961ATH+ support?
The MAX6961ATH+ supports either two monocolor 8×8 matrix digits (e.g., red and green) or a single RGY 8×8 matrix digit. It does not support RGB configurations. Each digit uses cathode-row driving with 8 sink outputs (ROW1–ROW8) and 16 source outputs (COL1–COL16), enabling direct connection without external transistors for LEDs with VF ≤ 2.5V.
How does the MAX6961ATH+ implement pixel-level intensity control?
The MAX6961ATH+ uses frame-modulated 2-bit-per-pixel intensity control over a 12-frame superframe, supporting arithmetic (off, 1/3, 2/3, full) or geometric (off, 1/4, 1/2, full) scaling. This enables 4-color output on monocolor displays or 16-color output on RGY displays, with global 256-step panel brightness applied multiplicatively.
Can the MAX6961ATH+ drive blue or high-VF LEDs directly?
No. The MAX6961ATH+ is rated for LED forward voltages up to 2.5V. Blue LEDs (typically 3.5V–4.5V) and some green LEDs exceed this limit and require external pass transistors. In such cases, the MAX6961ATH+ acts as a graphics controller-retaining all features including pixel-level intensity control and open/short detection-while external transistors handle higher voltage/current demands.
What is the function of the RISET0 and RISET1 pins on the MAX6961ATH+?
RISET0 and RISET1 configure the peak segment current for digit 0 and digit 1 respectively. Connecting each pin to GND sets 40mA; leaving open sets 20mA; connecting through a resistor allows analog trimming between 20mA and 40mA. This enables per-digit current calibration for color matching across RGY displays or batch-to-batch LED variations.
Does the MAX6961ATH+ support daisy-chaining with automatic address allocation?
Yes. Using the ADDIN/ADDOUT/ADDCLK 3-wire local bus, up to 256 MAX6961ATH+ devices automatically allocate contiguous memory map addresses without external jumpers or configuration registers. The ADDOUT pin of the last device serves as a plane-change interrupt output, simplifying multi-driver panel synchronization and reducing host software complexity.
MAX6961ATH+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 44-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Display Type:
- LED
- Configuration:
- 8 x 8 (Matrix)
- Interface:
- 4-Wire Serial
- Digits or Characters:
- Any Digit Type
- Current - Supply:
- 7.5 mA
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 3.6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 44-TQFN (7x7)
MAX6961ATH+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX6961ATH+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX6961ATH+ 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 MAX6961ATH+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX6961ATH+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX6961ATH+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX6961ATH+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX6961ATH+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX6961ATH+?
MAX6961ATH+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX6961ATH+ 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 MAX6961ATH+?
For technical support, including MAX6961ATH+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX6961ATH+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX6961ATH+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX6961ATH+ 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 MAX6961ATH+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX6961ATH+?
All MAX6961ATH+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX6961ATH+, 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 MAX6961ATH+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX6961ATH+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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