Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX6969AWG+
- Part No.:
- MAX6969AWG+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 24-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX6969AWG+.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRIVER LINEAR 55MA 24SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:291
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Product details
Overview
MAX6969AWG+ from Maxim Integrated is a 16-channel, open-drain, constant-current-sinking LED driver IC with 5.5V output rating, 3V–5.5V logic supply range, and programmable output current up to 55mA per channel via a single external resistor (RSET). It features a 25Mbps 4-wire serial interface (DIN/CLK/LE/OE), DOUT for cascading, and operates across –40°C to +125°C - used in high-reliability signage and architectural lighting systems.
For engineers reviewing the MAX6969AWG+ datasheet, MAX6969AWG+ pinout, MAX6969AWG+ application, or MAX6969AWG+ equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical parameters, package-specific thermal and timing data, cascade-capable serial interface behavior, and real-world design constraints including RSET-based current calibration and OE-driven PWM intensity control.
Technical Context
The MAX6969AWG+ implements a shift-register-plus-latch architecture: 16-bit serial data enters via DIN on CLK rising edges, propagates through DOUT after 16 cycles for daisy-chaining, and loads into output latches on LE's falling edge. Its constant-current sinks use feedback-based regulation-not simple mirrors-ensuring ≤3% matching between outputs and ≤6% matching between ICs across VOUT = 0.5V–2.5V and V+ = 3V–5.5V.
OE enables hardware-level PWM dimming by gating all 16 outputs simultaneously with sub-320ns turn-off delay; overtemperature cutoff disables outputs above ~165°C while preserving latch contents. The device supports independent power-up sequencing of V+ and LED supply rails, and tolerates input hysteresis of 0.8V on DIN/CLK/LE/OE.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output count | 16 open-drain constant-current sinking channels - drives individual LEDs or series strings with cathode connection. |
| Max output voltage | 5.5V - supports LED anodes connected to independent supplies up to 5.5V, decoupled from V+. |
| Output current range | 37–61mA per channel (typ. 50mA at RSET = 360Ω) - set globally by one resistor; 55mA max at RSET = 327Ω. |
| Serial interface speed | 25Mbps at 5V - 40ns minimum CLK period; supports high-frame-rate multiplexed displays. |
| Timing precision | tLRR = 100ns (LE→OUT rise), tOEL = 320ns (OE↓→OUT fall) - enables tight PWM synchronization across all 16 outputs. |
| Operating temperature | –40°C to +125°C - qualified for automotive exterior signage and industrial control panels. |
| Supply voltage range | 3.0V to 5.5V - compatible with 3.3V and 5V logic domains; V+ and LED supply power-up order independent. |
Pinout & Package
MAX6969AWG+ uses a 24-pin Wide SO (Small Outline) package with 0.635mm lead pitch and RoHS-compliant finish. Thermal resistance θJA = 84.7°C/W (derate 11.8mW/°C above +70°C); max continuous power dissipation = 941mW at TA = +70°C.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| GND (Pin 1) | Ground reference | Common return for V+, SET, and all logic inputs; must be low-impedance path to minimize noise coupling into current regulation. |
| DIN (Pin 2) | Serial data input | MSB-first 16-bit data stream; sampled on CLK rising edge; requires tDS ≥ 4ns setup and tDH ≥ 8ns hold at 5V. |
| CLK (Pin 3) | Serial clock input | Drives internal shift register; 40ns min period at 5V; rising edge clocks DIN data and advances DOUT propagation. |
| LE (Pin 4) | Latch enable | Transparent while high; latches shift register to output on falling edge; tLW ≥ 20ns pulse width required. |
| OUT0–OUT15 (Pins 5–20) | Constant-current sink outputs | Open-drain outputs rated to 5.5V; each sinks up to 61mA; current accuracy maintained over VOUT = 0.5–2.5V. |
| OE (Pin 21) | Output enable | Active-low global gate; high-Z state preserves latch contents; fast enough for PWM dimming (tOEL = 320ns). |
| DOUT (Pin 22) | Serial data output | Shift register output delayed by 16 CLK cycles; enables cascading multiple MAX6969AWG+ devices without external logic. |
| SET (Pin 23) | Current setting node | Connected to GND via RSET; sets all 16 outputs identically; RSET = 18,000/IOUT (IOUT in mA). |
| V+ (Pin 24) | Logic supply | 3.0–5.5V input; bypass with 0.1µF ceramic capacitor near pin; powers internal logic and current reference. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Single-resistor current programming | RSET sets identical 37–61mA per output; eliminates per-channel trimming and reduces BOM count. |
| 16-bit daisy-chain capability | DOUT delays data by exactly 16 CLK cycles, enabling seamless expansion to 32, 48, or more outputs with one MCU SPI port. |
| High-accuracy current matching | ≤3% variation between outputs on same die ensures uniform LED brightness across all 16 channels. |
| Robust interface timing | Guaranteed 40ns CLK period at 5V and 52ns at 3V supports reliable operation in noisy industrial environments. |
| Thermal fault protection | Auto-shutdown at ~165°C with hysteresis (~140°C restart) prevents permanent damage during sustained overloads. |
Applications
| Variable Message Signs | Architectural Lighting |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Outdoor electronic message boards displaying dynamic text and graphics under wide ambient temperature swings. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink driver for red/green/blue LED modules; provides synchronized PWM dimming via OE and precise current matching across rows/columns. Use Value: Ensures consistent luminance and color balance across 16-channel segments despite VOUT drift and temperature gradients from –40°C to +125°C. |
Use Scenario: Linear LED strips and façade lighting systems requiring uniform intensity and long-term reliability in commercial buildings. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-side LED string controller using cathode-sinking topology; leverages DOUT cascading to drive extended runs with minimal MCU GPIO usage. Use Value: Eliminates per-LED current-setting resistors; reduces thermal variance across 16 outputs; supports >50,000-hour LED lifetime via stable 50mA regulation. |
| Traffic Signs | Gaming Features |
|
Use Scenario: LED-based traffic signal heads and pedestrian crossing indicators requiring fail-safe visibility and regulatory compliance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary LED driver with OE-controlled strobing for daylight-bright flash patterns; LE-triggered static display updates. Use Value: Sub-320ns OE response enables precise 100Hz+ flash timing; overtemperature shutdown prevents thermal runaway in sealed enclosures. |
Use Scenario: Slot machines, arcade cabinets, and casino displays needing vibrant, flicker-free animated lighting effects. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time intensity control engine using OE as PWM input; DIN/CLK/LE coordinated for rapid frame updates across 16 zones. Use Value: 25Mbps interface sustains >1kHz update rates for smooth animations; 3% output matching prevents visible banding in gradient effects. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar constant-current LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX6979 | Includes integrated watchdog timer (blanks display if serial interface inactive >1s); same 16-output, 5.5V, 55mA specs. | Required for safety-critical signage where display freeze must trigger automatic blanking. | Select MAX6979 when fail-safe behavior is mandated; MAX6969AWG+ lacks watchdog but offers identical LED driving performance. |
| MAX6984 | Features automatic open-circuit LED detection; otherwise matches pinout, current range, and interface. | Suitable for maintenance-sensitive installations where LED failure reporting is essential. | Choose MAX6984 only if diagnostic capability is needed; MAX6969AWG+ has no fault detection but lower cost and simpler layout. |
Compared with MAX6979 and MAX6984, the MAX6969AWG+ delivers identical 16-channel constant-current driving and 25Mbps serial performance without added safety or diagnostic circuitry - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, non-fail-safe LED signage and lighting where full feature parity isn't required.
Availability
MAX6969AWG+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for variable message signs, architectural lighting systems, traffic signal modules, and gaming display subsystems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MAX6969AWG+ 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 thermal robustness.
The MAX6969AWG+ belongs to Maxim's high-voltage LED driver family targeting outdoor and industrial signage - engineered for wide temperature operation, current accuracy under varying LED forward voltages, and seamless multi-device cascading.
FAQ
What is the maximum LED current per channel for MAX6969AWG+ and how is it set?
The MAX6969AWG+ supports up to 61mA per output (typ. 50mA at RSET = 360Ω, max 55mA at RSET = 327Ω). Current is set globally using a single external resistor connected between SET (Pin 23) and GND, calculated as RSET = 18,000 / IOUT (IOUT in mA). This eliminates per-channel calibration and ensures matched brightness across all 16 outputs of the MAX6969AWG+.
Does MAX6969AWG+ support daisy-chaining with other LED drivers?
Yes, the MAX6969AWG+ supports seamless daisy-chaining via its DOUT pin (Pin 22), which outputs shifted data 16 clock cycles after DIN input. This allows multiple MAX6969AWG+ devices to share a single 4-wire serial bus (DIN/CLK/LE/OE), enabling scalable LED arrays without additional address decoding logic or MCU GPIO overhead.
What is the operating temperature range of MAX6969AWG+ and why does it matter for outdoor signage?
The MAX6969AWG+ is specified from –40°C to +125°C ambient, with guaranteed current accuracy and timing performance across this full range. This makes it suitable for uncontrolled outdoor environments - such as traffic signals and highway message signs - where extreme cold startup and solar-heated enclosures demand robust thermal margin beyond commercial-grade ICs.
Can MAX6969AWG+ drive LEDs with different forward voltages on the same device?
Yes, the MAX6969AWG+ maintains constant current across output voltages from 0.5V to 2.5V per channel, accommodating variations in LED VF due to binning, temperature, or series-string length. Its feedback-based current regulation - not simple mirroring - ensures ≤3% matching between outputs even with mismatched forward voltages, critical for uniformity in the MAX6969AWG+'s 16-channel operation.
How does the OE pin function in MAX6969AWG+ and what is its timing behavior?
The OE (Output Enable) pin (Pin 21) is an active-low global gate that forces all 16 outputs into high-impedance state without altering latch contents. With tOEL = 320ns (OE↓ → OUT↓) and tOEH = 120ns (OE↑ → OUT↑), it supports hardware PWM dimming at frequencies up to several hundred kHz. This enables precise intensity control in the MAX6969AWG+ while preserving display data integrity during blanking intervals.
MAX6969AWG+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 24-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- Shift Register
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 16
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 3V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output:
- 5.5V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 55mA
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- -
- Applications:
- Signage
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 24-SOIC
MAX6969AWG+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX6969AWG+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX6969AWG+ 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 MAX6969AWG+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX6969AWG+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX6969AWG+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX6969AWG+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX6969AWG+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX6969AWG+?
MAX6969AWG+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX6969AWG+ 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 MAX6969AWG+?
For technical support, including MAX6969AWG+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX6969AWG+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX6969AWG+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX6969AWG+ 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 MAX6969AWG+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX6969AWG+?
All MAX6969AWG+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX6969AWG+, 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 MAX6969AWG+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX6969AWG+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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