Send an Inquiry

To receive a quote for your project, please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Name*
Company*
Email Address*
Phone/WhatsApp
Part Number*
Quantity*
Message
Submit Inventory List

Please fill in the following information, and we’ll get back to you promptly.

Name*
Company*
Email Address*
Phone/WhatsApp
Upload My List
Message

Microchip Technology MSL3168GU-R

Part No.:
MSL3168GU-R
Manufacturer:
Microchip Technology
Category:
LED Drivers
Package:
32-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
Datasheet:
AetrixMSL3168GU-R.pdf
Description:
IC LED DRVR LIN PWM 30MA 32SOP
Quantity:
Payment:
Payment
Shipping:
Shipping

Inventory:4,883

Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.

Part Number
Quantity*
Price
Name*
Company
Email*
Comments

Product details

Overview

MSL3168GU-R 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 handling for open/short circuits and over-temperature. It drives up to 10 white LEDs per string in backlighting systems requiring precise intensity control and thermal robustness.

For engineers reviewing the MSL3168GU-R datasheet, MSL3168GU-R pinout, MSL3168GU-R application, or MSL3168GU-R equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, real-world timing behavior of 1/16th PWM-phase-shifted string drive, fault reporting via FLTB and I²C, package dimensions, and validated alternative part selection guidance.

Technical Context

The MSL3168GU-R implements adaptive source power control using its FBO pin to dynamically adjust an external DC-DC converter's output voltage-minimizing power dissipation while maintaining LED current regulation across temperature and aging. Its internal 2.5V LDO (VDD) powers logic circuitry independently from the 5V VIN supply.

Unlike the in-phase MSL3167GU, the MSL3168GU-R calculates and applies a precise 1/16th PWM period delay to successive STR0–STR15 outputs, spreading peak current demand across time to reduce input capacitor stress and EMI. Fault detection is hardware-automated on FLTB and optionally reported via I²C/SMBus interface at up to 1MHz.

Key Specifications

ParameterValue and Actual Design Meaning
LED strings16 parallel current-sink outputs (STR0–STR15), each supporting up to 10 white LEDs
Max string current30mA per string, set globally by single RILED resistor with ±3% matching
PWM dimmingSingle-input control (20Hz–50kHz), with auto-calculated 1/16th-period phase delay per string
Fault managementDedicated FLTB pin (active-low) + I²C-readable status registers for open/short/over-temp events
Efficiency optimizerFBO pin sources 0–365µA to external DC-DC feedback node, enabling dynamic VOUT minimization
Operating temp-40°C to +105°C ambient, with thermal shutdown at 135°C and automatic wake-up
Supply voltageVIN = 4.75–5.5V; internal 2.5V LDO (VDD) with 4.7µF bypass required

Pinout & Package

MSL3168GU-R is housed in a wave-solderable 32-pin SOP package (20.52mm × 7.49mm × 2.49mm, 1.27mm pitch) with exposed pad (EP) connected to PGND for thermal and current return path integrity.

Pin/TerminalCircuit RoleDesign Meaning
STR0–STR15Current sink outputsEach sinks up to 30mA; cathode of bottom LED in nth string connects here; unused pins tied to GND
FLTBFault indicatorActive-low open-drain output asserting on any detected fault; cleared only by EN low or power cycle
PWMDimming inputAccepts 20Hz–50kHz PWM signal; sets global frequency/duty cycle; phase delay applied automatically
ENEnable controlActive-high; enables device, clears FLTB, and enters 1.5mA sleep mode when low
FBOEfficiency Optimizer outputSources 0–365µA to external DC-DC feedback divider to minimize LED supply voltage in real time
ILEDCurrent reference inputResistor from ILED to GND sets full-scale string current (e.g., 38.3kΩ = 20mA)
PGNDPower groundReturn path for all 16 string currents; must connect to string supply ground with wide traces
VIN / VDDSupply inputsVIN = 5V main supply (bypass ≥10µF); VDD = internal 2.5V LDO output (bypass ≥4.7µF)

Key Features

FeatureDesign Value
Auto-phased string driveMSL3168GU-R applies precise 1/16th PWM period delay per successive string to reduce peak input current and EMI
Adaptive power optimizationFBO pin dynamically adjusts external DC-DC output voltage to match real-time LED forward voltage, cutting power loss
Hardware fault autonomyOpen-circuit, short-circuit, and over-temperature faults trigger immediate FLTB assertion without host intervention
Single-resistor current settingOne external resistor (RILED) configures identical 30mA max current across all 16 strings with ±3% matching
I²C/SMBus monitoring1MHz-compatible interface reads fault status, string enable states, and Efficiency Optimizer diagnostics (optional, not required for operation)

Applications

Television BacklightingMedical Display Illumination

Use Scenario: Driving 160 white LEDs (16 strings × 10 LEDs) in edge-lit LCD TV backlights requiring uniform brightness and long lifetime.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL3168GU-R acts as the primary current-regulated LED string controller, applying phase-shifted PWM to suppress input ripple and maintain stable luminance.

Use Value: Auto-phasing reduces peak input current by ~60% vs. in-phase drive, lowering bulk capacitor size and improving EMI compliance.

Use Scenario: Illuminating high-reliability diagnostic displays in ultrasound and patient monitors where thermal stability and fault visibility are critical.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL3168GU-R serves as fault-aware LED driver with FLTB alerting and I²C-readback for real-time health monitoring in safety-critical environments.

Use Value: Hardware-level open/short detection and over-temperature shutdown prevent LED failure-induced display blackouts during clinical use.

Automotive Infotainment DisplaysIndustrial HMI Panels

Use Scenario: Powering AMLCD backlighting in automotive audio-video head units operating across -40°C to +105°C ambient range.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL3168GU-R functions as thermally hardened LED driver with adaptive VOUT control to compensate for LED Vf drift over temperature.

Use Value: Efficiency Optimizer maintains >92% system efficiency across temperature extremes, reducing heat buildup in sealed enclosures.

Use Scenario: Enabling ruggedized operator interface panels in factory automation equipment requiring consistent brightness under variable load conditions.

IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: MSL3168GU-R operates as programmable-intensity LED driver with EN-controlled sleep mode and fault logging via I²C for predictive maintenance.

Use Value: 1.5mA shutdown current and register-accessible fault history support energy-efficient, serviceable industrial designs.

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Alternative PartTechnical DifferenceApplication DifferenceSelection Advice
TLC6C5912RTQR16-channel constant-current sink with SPI interface; no adaptive power control or auto-phasing; max 120mA per channelLacks FBO-based efficiency optimization and hardware fault reporting; requires external microcontroller for sequencingSelect when cost-sensitive designs prioritize simple SPI control over autonomous power optimization and fault handling
ISL97693IRTZ-T7A16-channel LED driver with I²C interface, 30mA per channel, but no auto-phased PWM or FBO outputNo built-in phase-delay logic or dynamic DC-DC control; relies on fixed external supply voltageChoose when existing DC-DC architecture cannot accommodate FBO feedback or when phase control is managed externally

Compared with TLC6C5912RTQR and ISL97693IRTZ-T7A, the MSL3168GU-R uniquely integrates adaptive power optimization (via FBO), hardware auto-phasing, and autonomous fault signaling-reducing BOM count, firmware overhead, and thermal design margin in high-channel-count backlighting.

Availability

MSL3168GU-R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for television backlighting, medical instrumentation displays, and automotive infotainment systems requiring stable component supply, extended temperature operation, and integrated fault resilience.

Supply support for MSL3168GU-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

Atmel Corporation (now part of Microchip Technology) is a semiconductor manufacturer specializing in microcontrollers, nonvolatile memory, and analog/mixed-signal ICs for embedded and industrial applications.

The MSL3168GU-R belongs to Atmel's Adaptive SourcePower® LED driver family, designed specifically for high-efficiency, multi-string backlighting in displays where thermal management, power optimization, and autonomous fault response are critical.

FAQ

What is the key functional difference between MSL3168GU-R and MSL3167GU?

The MSL3168GU-R applies an automatic 1/16th PWM period phase delay to successive LED strings (STR0–STR15) to spread power supply load and reduce peak current, while the MSL3167GU drives all strings in phase. This makes MSL3168GU-R preferable for designs sensitive to input ripple, capacitor stress, or EMI. Both share identical current accuracy, fault handling, and FBO-based adaptive power control.

How does the MSL3168GU-R achieve adaptive power optimization?

The MSL3168GU-R achieves adaptive power optimization through its FBO pin, which sources 0–365µA into the feedback node of an external DC-DC converter. This dynamically adjusts the converter's output voltage to the minimum level required to maintain LED current regulation-compensating for Vf changes due to temperature and aging. The MSL3168GU-R continuously recalibrates this adjustment to sustain efficiency without sacrificing current accuracy.

Can the MSL3168GU-R operate without the I²C interface enabled?

Yes, the MSL3168GU-R operates fully without I²C. The SDA and SCL pins are optional: they can be tied to GND if unused. Core functionality-including PWM dimming, auto-phased string drive, FLTB fault signaling, and FBO-based adaptive power control-requires only VIN, EN, PWM, ILED, PGND, and the STRx outputs. I²C is solely for enhanced monitoring and configuration.

What is the maximum number of white LEDs the MSL3168GU-R can drive, and what headroom is required?

The MSL3168GU-R can drive up to 160 white LEDs (16 strings × 10 LEDs). Each string requires a minimum headroom of 150mV across the internal MOSFET (VSTR), and the STRx pins tolerate up to 40V. For 10 LEDs with typical Vf = 3.5–3.8V, total string voltage ranges from 35.5V to 38.5V-well within the 40V absolute maximum rating of the MSL3168GU-R.

How is LED string current set on the MSL3168GU-R, and what accuracy is achieved?

LED string current on the MSL3168GU-R is set by a single external resistor (RILED) connected from the ILED pin to GND, using the formula RILED = 762 / IILED (IILED in mA, RILED in kΩ). With RILED = 38.3kΩ, full-scale current is 20mA. The MSL3168GU-R achieves ±3% current accuracy per string and ±5% current matching across all 16 strings at 20mA, verified over -40°C to +105°C.

MSL3168GU-R Specifications

Product attributes
Attribute value
Manufacturer:
Microchip Technology
Series:
Adaptive SourcePower™
Package/Case:
32-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
Packaging:
Tape & Reel (TR)
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-R FAQ

1.How can I place an order for MSL3168GU-R through Aetrix?

Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MSL3168GU-R 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-R reliable?

The price and inventory of MSL3168GU-R are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MSL3168GU-R is usually 5 days.

3.What payment methods are accepted for MSL3168GU-R?

We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MSL3168GU-R transactions.

Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.

4.How is shipping managed for MSL3168GU-R?

MSL3168GU-R orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.

Once your MSL3168GU-R 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-R?

For technical support, including MSL3168GU-R datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MSL3168GU-R requirements.

6.How does Aetrix verify that MSL3168GU-R is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?

All MSL3168GU-R 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-R meets industry standards.

7.What is the process for return or replacement of MSL3168GU-R?

All MSL3168GU-R units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MSL3168GU-R, 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-R part is unused and in its original packaging.

Return procedure for MSL3168GU-R:

1.Submit a request within 90 days.

2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.

MSL3168GU-R Tags

  • MSL3168GU-R
  • MSL3168GU-R PDF
  • MSL3168GU-R Datasheet
  • MSL3168GU-R Specifications
  • MSL3168GU-R Images
  • Microchip Technology
  • Microchip Technology MSL3168GU-R
  • Buy MSL3168GU-R
  • MSL3168GU-R Price
  • MSL3168GU-R Distributor
  • MSL3168GU-R Supplier
  • MSL3168GU-R Wholesale
Related Products
BCR402RE6327HTSA1
BCR402RE6327HTSA1

Infineon Technologies

BCR430UXTSA2
BCR430UXTSA2

Infineon Technologies

BCR420UE6433HTMA1
BCR420UE6433HTMA1

Infineon Technologies

BCR420UE6327HTSA1
BCR420UE6327HTSA1

Infineon Technologies

BCR421UE6327HTSA1
BCR421UE6327HTSA1

Infineon Technologies

LYT1604D-TL
LYT1604D-TL

Power Integrations

HV9910CLG-G
HV9910CLG-G

Microchip Technology

CL2N8-G
CL2N8-G

Microchip Technology

BCR420UW6-7
BCR420UW6-7

Diodes Incorporated

BCR421UW6-7
BCR421UW6-7

Diodes Incorporated

BCR420UFD-7
BCR420UFD-7

Diodes Incorporated

BCR421UFD-7
BCR421UFD-7

Diodes Incorporated

Tech Hub

Search

Search

PRODUCT

PRODUCT

PHONE

PHONE

USER

USER