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Microchip Technology MSL3168GU
- Part No.:
- MSL3168GU
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 32-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MSL3168GU.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRVR LIN PWM 30MA 32SOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,763
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Product details
Overview
MSL3168GU from Atmel is a 16-channel white LED driver IC with auto-phased string control, adaptive DC-DC power optimization, ±3% current accuracy per string (up to 30mA), and integrated fault management for open/short circuits and over-temperature. It drives up to 160 LEDs (10 per string) in backlighting systems requiring precise intensity control and thermal robustness.
For engineers reviewing the MSL3168GU datasheet, MSL3168GU pinout, MSL3168GU application, or MSL3168GU equivalent, key selection criteria include its 1/16th-PWM-period inter-string phase delay, FBO-controlled external DC-DC supply interface, I²C/SMBus monitoring capability, and 32-pin SOP wave-solderable package with -40°C to +105°C operation.
Technical Context
The MSL3168GU implements adaptive source power control via its FBO pin, dynamically adjusting an external DC-DC converter's output voltage to match real-time LED forward voltage requirements-minimizing power dissipation while maintaining 150mV minimum headroom across all strings. Its internal 2.5V LDO (VDD) powers logic circuitry independently from the 5V VIN supply.
Unlike the in-phase MSL3167GU, the MSL3168GU calculates and applies a precise 1/16th PWM period delay to each successive LED string output (STR0–STR15), spreading transient current demand across time to reduce peak input capacitance stress and EMI on the shared LED power rail.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| LED strings | 16 independent current-sink outputs (STR0–STR15), each driving up to 10 white LEDs in series |
| Max string current | 30mA per string, set globally by single RILED resistor with ±3% accuracy and <±5% matching |
| PWM dimming | Single-input control (20Hz–50kHz), with auto-phased 1/16th-period delay per string to reduce supply ripple |
| Fault handling | Detects open-circuit (≥8.4V), short-circuit, and over-temperature faults; alerts via active-low FLTB pin |
| Power interface | FBO pin sources 0–365µA to adjust external DC-DC feedback node-enabling dynamic VOUT optimization |
| Supply & temp | VIN = 4.75–5.5V; operates from –40°C to +105°C ambient; 32-pin SOP (20.52 × 7.49 × 2.49 mm) |
Pinout & Package
MSL3168GU is housed in a wave-solderable 32-pin SOP package (1.27mm pitch) with exposed pad (EP) connected to PGND for thermal and current return path integrity.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| STR0–STR15 | Current sink outputs | Sink up to 30mA per string; connect LED cathodes; unused pins must be grounded |
| FLTB | Fault indicator | Active-low open-drain output asserting on any detected fault; cleared only by EN low or power cycle |
| PWM | Dimming control input | Accepts 20Hz–50kHz PWM signal; sets global duty cycle and frequency for all strings |
| EN | Enable input | Active-high; enables device, clears FLTB, and enters 1.5mA sleep mode when low |
| ILED | Current reference input | Connect resistor to GND to set full-scale string current (e.g., 38.3kΩ → 20mA) |
| FBO | Efficiency Optimizer output | Sources 0–365µA to external DC-DC feedback divider to minimize LED supply voltage dynamically |
| SCL/SDA | I²C interface | 1MHz SMBus-compatible serial bus for optional fault/status readback and configuration (not required for basic operation) |
| PGND / CGND / GND | Ground terminals | PGND carries high-current string returns; CGND/GND are logic/signal grounds; EP must connect to PGND |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Auto-phased string drive | MSL3168GU applies precise 1/16th-PWM-period delay per successive string to reduce peak input current and EMI |
| Adaptive power optimization | FBO pin dynamically adjusts external DC-DC output voltage to match LED Vf drift due to temperature/aging-cutting power loss |
| Single-resistor current setting | One external RILED defines full-scale current for all 16 strings-simplifying BOM and layout |
| Integrated fault protection | Hardware-level detection of open/short strings and over-temperature-with latchable FLTB alert and I²C status registers |
| Robust thermal operation | Rated for –40°C to +105°C ambient; includes thermal shutdown with automatic wake-up after cooldown |
Applications
| Television Backlighting | Medical Display Illumination |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Edge-lit LCD TV backlight using 16 parallel LED strings (10 LEDs each) driven from a single high-voltage DC-DC supply. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL3168GU acts as current-regulated string controller with adaptive FBO feedback to minimize power loss and thermal load on the supply. Use Value: Auto-phased PWM reduces input capacitor stress and EMI, enabling smaller, lower-cost bulk capacitance while maintaining uniform brightness. | Use Scenario: High-reliability diagnostic monitor backlight where consistent luminance and fault visibility are critical for clinical interpretation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL3168GU provides ±3% current matching across all strings and latched FLTB output for immediate open/short detection. Use Value: Integrated fault reporting eliminates need for external sense circuitry-reducing board area and improving system-level safety compliance. |
| Industrial HMI Panels | Automotive Infotainment Displays |
Use Scenario: Ruggedized human-machine interface panel operating in wide ambient temperatures (-40°C to +85°C) with variable ambient light conditions. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL3168GU delivers stable 30mA string current across temperature extremes and supports PWM dimming down to 0.1% duty cycle. Use Value: Internal 2.5V LDO (VDD) decouples logic supply from noisy 5V rail-ensuring reliable register access and I²C communication in electrically harsh environments. | Use Scenario: Center-stack infotainment display requiring silent, flicker-free dimming and fail-safe behavior during vehicle power transients. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL3168GU uses EN pin for controlled shutdown during ignition-off and leverages FLTB to signal faults to MCU via dedicated interrupt line. Use Value: Over-temperature shutdown with automatic recovery prevents permanent damage during prolonged high-brightness operation-extending display lifetime. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED string driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSL3167GU | Identical pinout and core functionality, but drives all 16 strings in-phase (no auto-phase delay) | Lacks inter-string timing spread-higher peak input current and ripple; suitable only when supply capacitance is unconstrained | Select MSL3167GU only if EMI and input capacitor size are not design constraints; otherwise MSL3168GU is preferred for optimized power delivery. |
| TLC6983RTQR | 16-channel LED driver with 100mA max per channel, SPI interface, no FBO or adaptive power control | Higher current capability but no dynamic DC-DC optimization-requires fixed-headroom supply design and larger heatsinking | Choose TLC6983RTQR for higher-current or SPI-based systems; MSL3168GU remains optimal for efficiency-critical, thermally constrained backlighting. |
Compared with MSL3167GU, the MSL3168GU adds time-domain load spreading without changing footprint or control interface; versus TLC6983RTQR, it trades raw current headroom for adaptive power efficiency and simpler analog supply integration.
Availability
MSL3168GU is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for television backlighting, medical instrumentation displays, and industrial HMI panels requiring stable component supply, long-term manufacturability, and automotive-grade thermal resilience.
Supply support for MSL3168GU 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
Atmel Corporation (now part of Microchip Technology) is a semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, capacitive touch solutions, and high-performance analog/mixed-signal ICs for industrial, consumer, and automotive markets.
The MSL3168GU belongs to Atmel's Adaptive SourcePower® LED driver family-designed specifically for energy-efficient, thermally robust backlighting in large-area displays where power optimization and fault resilience are critical.
FAQ
What is the primary functional difference between MSL3168GU and MSL3167GU?
The MSL3168GU introduces automatic 1/16th-PWM-period phase delay across its 16 LED string outputs to spread transient current demand, reducing peak input ripple and EMI. The MSL3167GU drives all strings synchronously. Both share identical pinout, current specs, fault handling, and FBO control-but only MSL3168GU delivers time-domain load balancing. This makes MSL3168GU preferable for designs with tight input capacitance or EMI budgets.
How does the FBO pin on MSL3168GU interact with the external DC-DC converter?
The FBO pin on MSL3168GU sources 0–365µA to the feedback node of an external DC-DC converter, dynamically adjusting its output voltage to match the minimum required for LED string regulation. This adaptive control minimizes excess headroom-reducing power loss and heat generation. The MSL3168GU continuously recalibrates FBO current based on real-time LED Vf, ensuring optimal efficiency across temperature and aging.
Can MSL3168GU operate without the I²C interface enabled?
Yes, the MSL3168GU operates fully without I²C. SCL and SDA pins may be tied to GND, and the device defaults to autonomous operation: PWM dimming, adaptive FBO control, and hardware fault detection (FLTB) function immediately at power-up. I²C is optional-used only for reading fault registers, configuring advanced features, or accessing EEPROM-stored defaults. Basic LED driving requires no serial communication.
What is the maximum number of LEDs supported per string by MSL3168GU?
The MSL3168GU supports up to 10 white LEDs per string, based on its 40V absolute maximum rating on STR0–STR15 pins and typical white LED forward voltage (3.2–3.8V). With 10 LEDs at 3.8V each, total string voltage is 38V-leaving 2V margin below the 40V limit. Exceeding 10 LEDs risks violating the 40V clamp and compromising current regulation accuracy or reliability.
How does MSL3168GU handle thermal overload conditions?
The MSL3168GU includes integrated over-temperature protection that triggers shutdown at 135°C junction temperature. Upon activation, it disables all string outputs and asserts FLTB low. After die temperature falls below the hysteresis threshold (~120°C), the MSL3168GU automatically resumes operation without requiring external reset-ensuring graceful recovery in thermally demanding environments like enclosed displays or high-brightness operation.
MSL3168GU Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Microchip Technology
- Series:
- Adaptive SourcePower™
- Package/Case:
- 32-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- -
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 16
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 4.75V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output:
- -
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 30mA
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- PWM
- Applications:
- Backlight
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-SOP
MSL3168GU FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MSL3168GU through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MSL3168GU 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 MSL3168GU reliable?
The price and inventory of MSL3168GU are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MSL3168GU is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MSL3168GU?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MSL3168GU transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MSL3168GU?
MSL3168GU orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MSL3168GU 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 MSL3168GU?
For technical support, including MSL3168GU datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MSL3168GU requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MSL3168GU is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MSL3168GU 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 MSL3168GU meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MSL3168GU?
All MSL3168GU units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MSL3168GU, 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 MSL3168GU part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MSL3168GU:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MSL3168GU 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
-
LYT1604D-TL
Power Integrations
-
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
-
BCR421UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated
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