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Microchip Technology MSL2160DQ
- Part No.:
- MSL2160DQ
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MSL2160DQ.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRIVER LINEAR PWM 64TQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,010
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Product details
Overview
MSL2160DQ from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 16-string white/RGB LED driver IC with adaptive DC-DC control, 12-bit per-string PWM dimming, 8-bit global intensity control, EEPROM-configurable power-up defaults, and 20MHz SPI serial interface. It drives external MOSFETs to sink up to 350mA per string with ±1.5% current accuracy and supports active area dimming for LCD TV backlighting.
For engineers reviewing the MSL2160DQ datasheet, MSL2160DQ pinout, MSL2160DQ application, or MSL2160DQ equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, validated pin functions, confirmed fault detection architecture, real-world timing synchronization capabilities (PHI/GSC), and direct alternative part comparisons - all grounded in the official Microchip MSL2160/MSL2161 datasheet brief and pinout documentation.
Technical Context
The MSL2160DQ implements Adaptive SourcePower™ technology to dynamically adjust up to three external LED string power supplies-optimizing voltage headroom while maintaining ±1.5% current matching across 16 strings. Its 20MHz SPI interface enables frame-by-frame intensity updates across daisy-chained configurations of up to eight devices.
It integrates a hardware fault output (FLTB) for open/short-circuit detection on all 16 strings, over-temperature shutdown at 135°C, and synchronized PWM generation locked to external PHI (40Hz–10kHz) and GSC (up to 2.5MHz) video timing signals-enabling motion blur reduction via programmable per-string PWM phasing.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| LED String Count | 16 parallel strings, each driven by external N-channel MOSFETs |
| Max Per-String Current | 350mA, set via external sense resistor with 500mV regulation threshold |
| PWM Resolution | 12-bit per string + 8-bit global register → 12-bit effective total resolution |
| Serial Interface | 20MHz SPI (MOSI/MISO/SCK/CSB), supporting broadcast writes and daisy-chain topology |
| Current Accuracy | ±1.5% matching across strings at mid-scale (ISTR = 0x7F), ±4% full-range |
| Operating Temp Range | −40°C to +105°C ambient, with thermal shutdown at 135°C junction |
| Supply Voltage | VIN = 10.8–13.2V (12V ±10%), powering gate drivers and internal LDOs (VCC = 5V, VDD = 2.5V) |
Pinout & Package
MSL2160DQ is housed in a 64-pin, 9mm × 9mm × 0.85mm TQFN package with exposed thermal pad (EP), 0.5mm pitch, RoHS-compliant.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1–64 (incl. EP) | See table below | Full pin mapping validated per Figure 2 and Table 3 of Microchip MSL2160/MSL2161 datasheet brief |
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| G0–G15 | Gate drive outputs | Drive gates of external N-MOSFETs; max 0.7mA sink/source, voltage up to VIN − 2.5V |
| S0–S15 | Source sense inputs | Connect to MOSFET source + current sense resistor; regulate at 500mV ±25mV (±5%) |
| D0–D15 | Drain sense inputs | Monitor drain voltage via 10MΩ resistor; detect short circuit >8V |
| FBO1–FBO3 | Efficiency Optimizer outputs | Feedback DAC outputs (208–360µA range) for up to three external DC-DC supplies |
| PHI / GSC | Video sync inputs | PHI accepts 40Hz–10kHz frame sync (e.g., VSYNC); GSC accepts up to 2.5MHz line clock (e.g., HSYNC) |
| MOSI / MISO / SCK / CSB | SPI interface | 20MHz full-duplex SPI; CSB active-low chip select; MISO tri-state when CSB high |
| FLTB | Fault indicator | Open-drain active-low output asserting on open/short/over-temp; cleared only after register read |
| EN | Enable input | Active-high; powers up device and triggers EEPROM-to-register boot load on rising edge |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Adaptive SourcePower™ | Dynamically adjusts up to three external LED power supplies to minimum required voltage-reducing heat and improving system efficiency without compromising current accuracy |
| 12-bit per-string PWM | Enables precise local dimming in direct-lit LCD backlights, increasing contrast ratio and enabling HDR-compatible area dimming |
| Per-string fault enable | Individual software-configurable fault detection per LED string allows selective monitoring in mixed-color (RGB) or segmented backlight zones |
| EEPROM configuration storage | Persists power-on defaults (intensity, timing, EO settings) across cold starts-eliminating MCU initialization overhead |
| Programmable PWM phasing | Reduces motion blur by aligning individual string PWM off-times with LCD pixel refresh timing, synchronized via PHI/GSC inputs |
| Broadcast write capability | Single SPI command configures identical registers across up to eight daisy-chained MSL2160DQ devices-simplifying multi-zone backlight firmware |
Applications
| Television Backlighting | Medical Display Illumination |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Direct-lit LCD TV with local dimming zones for HDR content playback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL2160DQ acts as string-level current controller and synchronized PWM generator, locking to VSYNC/HSYNC for artifact-free motion rendering. Use Value: Achieves >10,000:1 contrast ratio via per-zone dimming and eliminates waterfall noise through phase-shifted 12-bit PWM. |
Use Scenario: High-reliability surgical monitor requiring flicker-free, stable white backlight across extended operating cycles. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL2160DQ serves as fault-monitored LED driver with open/short detection and thermal shutdown-ensuring fail-safe illumination. Use Value: ±1.5% current matching maintains consistent luminance across 16 strings; EEPROM retains calibrated settings after power loss. |
| Automotive Infotainment Displays | Architectural Signage |
Use Scenario: In-vehicle LCD display with wide temperature operation and EMI-resilient digital control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL2160DQ provides SPI-controlled dimming and robust fault reporting (FLTB) to vehicle MCU under −40°C to +105°C conditions. Use Value: 20MHz SPI withstands automotive EMI; FLTB pin enables immediate MCU response to LED string failure-meeting ASIL-B readiness requirements. |
Use Scenario: Large-format RGB LED sign requiring uniform color balance and long-life thermal management. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL2160DQ drives separate red/green/blue strings using three independent FBO outputs to optimize each color channel's supply efficiency. Use Value: Adaptive EO control reduces power dissipation by up to 22% vs. fixed-voltage supplies; 12-bit per-channel PWM ensures smooth color gradients. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED string driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSL2161DQ | I²C interface (1MHz) instead of SPI; identical pinout, package, and analog functionality | Preferred where I²C bus infrastructure exists and lower data rate suffices; no change to LED power stage or layout | Select MSL2161DQ when MCU has limited SPI resources but supports I²C addressing; same thermal and fault behavior |
| TLC6983RTQR | 16-channel constant-current LED driver with integrated MOSFETs (max 120mA/channel); no external FET requirement; I²C-only interface | Suitable for lower-power signage or indicator panels-not for high-current TV backlighting | Choose TLC6983RTQR only for space-constrained designs needing integrated drivers below 120mA; cannot replace MSL2160DQ in 350mA applications |
Compared with MSL2161DQ, the MSL2160DQ offers higher-speed SPI for time-critical video frame updates; compared with TLC6983RTQR, it supports triple the per-string current and external FET flexibility for high-voltage, high-efficiency backlight architectures.
Availability
MSL2160DQ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for television backlighting, medical instrumentation displays, and automotive infotainment systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for MSL2160DQ 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 acquired Atmel in 2016 and continues development and support of the former Atmel LED driver portfolio, including high-reliability timing and power management ICs for industrial and display applications.
The MSL2160DQ belongs to Microchip's LED string controller product line, designed specifically for adaptive, high-accuracy backlighting in LCD TVs, medical monitors, and automotive displays-emphasizing fault resilience, video-sync precision, and thermal robustness.
FAQ
What is the maximum LED string current supported by the MSL2160DQ?
The MSL2160DQ supports up to 350mA per LED string, set by an external current sense resistor with a regulated 500mV threshold at the S0–S15 pins. This value is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table (page 15) of the official datasheet brief, where S0–S15 regulation voltage is specified as 475–525mV at full scale. The MSL2160DQ does not limit current internally-it relies on external MOSFET selection and sense resistor calibration to achieve this rating.
Does the MSL2160DQ include built-in MOSFETs or require external ones?
The MSL2160DQ requires external N-channel MOSFETs for each of its 16 LED strings. It provides dedicated gate drive outputs (G0–G15) and source/drain sense inputs (S0–S15, D0–D15) to interface with discrete FETs. This architecture enables high-voltage operation (e.g., >100V strings) and thermal separation-confirmed in the General Description (page 2) stating "use external current control MOSFETs to sink up to 350mA per string."
How does the MSL2160DQ synchronize with video timing signals?
The MSL2160DQ synchronizes to video timing via two dedicated inputs: PHI (phase sync, 40Hz–10kHz) and GSC (gate shift clock, up to 2.5MHz). These accept standard LCD timing signals-typically VSYNC and HSYNC-to align PWM dimming edges with frame and line boundaries. This eliminates beating artifacts and enables motion blur reduction through programmable per-string PWM phasing, as detailed in the Timing section (pages 4–5) of the datasheet brief.
What fault protection features are implemented in the MSL2160DQ?
The MSL2160DQ provides per-string open-circuit and short-circuit detection (via G0–G15 and D0–D15 pins), loss-of-sync monitoring, and over-temperature shutdown at 135°C. Faults trigger an active-low open-drain FLTB output and populate status registers accessible via SPI. All fault detection logic is hardware-based and operates independently of host MCU polling-verified in the Fault Detection section (page 2) and Absolute Maximum Ratings (page 14).
Can the MSL2160DQ operate without an external microcontroller?
No-the MSL2160DQ requires an external MCU or host processor for configuration and control via its 20MHz SPI interface. While it includes an internal oscillator and can generate standalone PWM timing, initialization, EEPROM programming, fault register reads, and dynamic brightness updates all depend on SPI commands. The EN pin enables hardware reset, but full functionality-including power-up default loading from EEPROM-requires SPI communication, as stated in the EN pin description (page 12).
MSL2160DQ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- Adaptive SourcePower™
- Package/Case:
- 64-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- -
- Internal Switch(s):
- No
- Number of Outputs:
- 16
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 10.8V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 13.2V
- Voltage - Output:
- -
- Current - Output / Channel:
- -
- Frequency:
- 20MHz
- Dimming:
- PWM
- Applications:
- Backlight, Lighting
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 105°C (TA)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 64-TQFN (9x9)
MSL2160DQ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MSL2160DQ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MSL2160DQ 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 MSL2160DQ reliable?
The price and inventory of MSL2160DQ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MSL2160DQ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MSL2160DQ?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MSL2160DQ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MSL2160DQ?
MSL2160DQ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MSL2160DQ 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 MSL2160DQ?
For technical support, including MSL2160DQ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MSL2160DQ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MSL2160DQ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MSL2160DQ 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 MSL2160DQ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MSL2160DQ?
All MSL2160DQ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MSL2160DQ, 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 MSL2160DQ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MSL2160DQ:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MSL2160DQ Tags
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BCR402RE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies
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BCR430UXTSA2
Infineon Technologies
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BCR420UE6433HTMA1
Infineon Technologies
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BCR420UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies
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BCR421UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies
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LYT1604D-TL
Power Integrations
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HV9910CLG-G
Microchip Technology
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CL2N8-G
Microchip Technology
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BCR420UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated
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BCR421UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated
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BCR420UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated
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BCR421UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated
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