Microchip Technology MSL2161DQ-R

Overview

MSL2161DQ-R from Microchip Technology (formerly Atmel) is a 16-string I²C LED driver IC for high-efficiency LCD backlighting and RGB signage, featuring 1MHz I²C interface, 12-bit per-string PWM dimming, ±1.5% current accuracy, adaptive source power control, and on-chip EEPROM for power-up configuration. It drives external MOSFETs to sink up to 350mA per string across -40°C to +105°C.

For engineers reviewing the MSL2161DQ-R datasheet, MSL2161DQ-R pinout, MSL2161DQ-R application, or MSL2161DQ-R equivalent, key selection considerations include I²C timing compliance (1MHz), fault detection granularity (per-string open/short monitoring), adaptive efficiency optimizer outputs (FBO1–FBO3), and thermal shutdown at 135°C with 15°C hysteresis.

Technical Context

The MSL2161DQ-R implements a video-synchronized PWM engine that locks to external PHI (VSYNC) and GSC (HSYNC) inputs, enabling frame-accurate area dimming and phase-shifted string control to reduce motion blur. Its Adaptive SourcePower™ architecture dynamically adjusts up to three independent LED string power supplies via FBO1–FBO3 feedback outputs.

It integrates an 8-bit global intensity register, 12-bit individual string PWM registers, and broadcast-write capability for multi-device synchronization across up to eight daisy-chained units. Fault management includes hardware FLTB assertion and serial-accessible status registers for open-circuit, short-circuit, loss-of-sync, and over-temperature events.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MSL2161DQ-R is housed in a 64-pin, 9mm × 9mm × 0.85mm TQFN package with exposed thermal pad (EP), compatible with standard reflow profiles and optimized for high-power LED driver thermal dissipation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED string driver applications.

Compared with TLC6983RTQR and ISL97693IRTZ-T7A, the MSL2161DQ-R uniquely combines I²C-based video synchronization, adaptive multi-supply control, and EEPROM-persistent configuration-making it the only option qualified for high-end direct-lit LCD backlighting with HDR and motion artifact suppression requirements.

Availability

MSL2161DQ-R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for television backlighting, medical instrumentation displays, automotive infotainment systems, and architectural RGB signage requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MSL2161DQ-R 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 maintains its high-performance analog and LED driver product lines with full technical and manufacturing continuity.

The MSL2161DQ-R belongs to Microchip's LED string controller family, designed specifically for high-dynamic-range LCD backlighting and intelligent signage where video synchronization, adaptive power efficiency, and fault resilience are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum LED string current supported by the MSL2161DQ-R?

The MSL2161DQ-R supports up to 350mA per LED string when used with appropriately rated external N-channel MOSFETs. Current is regulated via external sense resistors referenced to the 500mV Sx pin threshold, with ±1.5% accuracy and matching across all 16 strings. Peak current capability depends on MOSFET selection, PCB layout, and thermal design-not the MSL2161DQ-R itself.

Does the MSL2161DQ-R support synchronization to video timing signals?

Yes, the MSL2161DQ-R supports direct synchronization to video timing via two dedicated inputs: PHI accepts VSYNC (40Hz–10kHz) and GSC accepts HSYNC (up to 2.5MHz). This enables frame-locked PWM dimming, area dimming, and programmable string phasing-key for eliminating motion blur and waterfall noise in LCD TVs and monitors.

How does the EEPROM in the MSL2161DQ-R function during power-up?

At power-up, when EN is asserted high, the MSL2161DQ-R automatically loads stored values from its on-chip EEPROM into internal control registers-including global intensity, PWM phase offsets, fault enable masks, and FBO configurations. This eliminates MCU boot-time initialization and ensures deterministic operation from first power cycle.

Can the MSL2161DQ-R drive RGB LED strings with independent power supplies?

Yes, the MSL2161DQ-R features three independent Efficiency Optimizer outputs (FBO1–FBO3), each capable of regulating a separate DC-DC supply for red, green, and blue LED strings. This allows optimal voltage headroom per color channel, improving overall system efficiency and color consistency in RGB signage and premium displays.

What fault conditions does the MSL2161DQ-R detect and how are they reported?

The MSL2161DQ-R detects per-string open-circuit, short-circuit, loss-of-sync, and over-temperature faults. All faults assert the open-drain FLTB pin (active-low) and are individually readable via I²C register map. Fault latching persists until registers are read, enabling reliable system-level diagnostics without missed events.