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NXP Semiconductors PCA8551ATT/AJ
- Part No.:
- PCA8551ATT/AJ
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Display Drivers
- Package:
- 48-TFSOP (0.240", 6.10mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
PCA8551ATT/AJ.pdf
- Description:
- IC DRVR 144 SEGMENT 48TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,361
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Product details
Overview
PCA8551ATT/AJ from NXP Semiconductors is an AEC-Q100 Grade 2 automotive LCD segment driver with 36 segment and 4 backplane outputs, I²C interface (400 kHz), ultra-low-power operation (1.8–5.5 V VLCD/VDD), and internal bias generation-designed for instrument cluster displays requiring static/1:2/1:3/1:4 multiplexing and frame inversion.
For engineers reviewing the PCA8551ATT/AJ datasheet, PCA8551ATT/AJ pinout, PCA8551ATT/AJ application, or PCA8551ATT/AJ equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, TSSOP48 package mapping, real-time display control parameters, and automotive-grade selection guidance for LCD systems operating from –40 °C to +105 °C.
Technical Context
The PCA8551ATT/AJ implements a dedicated I²C-bus controller (not SPI) with SCL/SDA pins, integrated oscillator (configurable 32–256 Hz frame rate), and programmable display control registers governing multiplex mode (1:4 default), bias (1/3), blinking (0.5/1/2 Hz), and inversion (frame or line). It supports auto-incrementing display RAM writes across 144 addressable segments.
Its internal LCD bias generator produces precise 1/3-bias voltages from VLCD using on-chip buffered dividers, while independent VLCD and VDD supplies enable flexible power partitioning. Power-down mode disables oscillator and outputs but retains register state and bus responsiveness.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| I²C Interface Speed | 400 kHz - compatible with standard-mode I²C hosts without timing margin concerns. |
| Segment/Backplane Count | 36 segments / 4 backplanes - supports up to 144-element displays (e.g., 18×7-segment digits or 9×14-segment alphanumerics). |
| Operating Temperature | –40 °C to +105 °C - qualified per AEC-Q100 Grade 2 for under-hood and instrument panel deployment. |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.8 V to 5.5 V for both VLCD and VDD - enables single-supply designs and battery-powered operation down to 1.8 V. |
| Multiplex Configurations | Static, 1:2, 1:3, or 1:4 - selectable via Display_ctrl_1 register; default is 1:4 with 1/3 bias for optimal contrast in automotive panels. |
| Blink Frequency Options | 0.5 Hz, 1 Hz, or 2 Hz - software-selectable via BL[1:0] bits; derived from internal clock for stable visual indication. |
| Display RAM Size | 144 bits - mapped across COM0–COM3 with auto-increment addressing (04h–17h), supporting full 36×4 element refresh. |
Pinout & Package
TSSOP48 package (SOT362-1), plastic thin shrink small outline, 48 leads, body width 6.1 mm.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| SEG0–SEG35 | LCD segment output | 36 active-low CMOS drivers; each controls one LCD element in conjunction with selected COM outputs. |
| COM0–COM3 | LCD backplane output | 4 time-multiplexed backplane signals; define drive phase sequence for 1:4 mode (default) or reduced modes. |
| VLCD | LCD supply voltage | Independent analog supply (1.8–5.5 V); powers internal bias generator and segment/backplane drivers. |
| VDD / VSS | Digital supply / ground | Core logic supply (1.8–5.5 V); decoupling required per Figure 9 (≥100 nF recommended). |
| SCL / SDA | I²C bus interface | Standard open-drain I²C pins; support 400 kHz operation with external pull-ups (typ. 2.2–4.7 kΩ). |
| RST | Hardware reset input | Active-low asynchronous reset (≥10 µs pulse); initializes registers to POR defaults when PORE is disabled. |
| CLK | Oscillator I/O | Configurable as internal oscillator output or external clock input; 50% duty cycle when enabled (COE=1). |
| PORE | POR enable input | Connect to VDD to enable internal Power-On Reset; connect to VSS or leave open to disable (requires RST or software reset). |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| AEC-Q100 Grade 2 qualification | Validated for automotive use up to +105 °C ambient, ensuring reliability in instrument clusters and control indicators. |
| Selectable multiplex & bias modes | Runtime-configurable 1:4/1:3/1:2/static drive with 1/3 or 1/2 bias - matches diverse LCD module requirements without hardware change. |
| Internal LCD bias generation | On-chip buffered voltage divider eliminates external resistors and reduces BOM count while maintaining stable bias ratios. |
| Frame and line inversion support | INV bit selects between frame inversion (reduces flicker in high-duty-cycle displays) or line inversion (lower EMI in compact layouts). |
| Ultra-low-power operation | Typical current draw <10 µA in power-down mode; enables extended battery life in portable healthcare and remote displays. |
Applications
| Instrument Cluster Display | Control Indicator Panel |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Driving multi-digit speedometer, fuel gauge, and warning icons in automotive dashboards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary LCD segment driver managing 36 segments × 4 backplanes with synchronized frame updates via I²C. Use Value: AEC-Q100 Grade 2 compliance ensures functional safety at +105 °C; 1:4 multiplex + 1/3 bias delivers high contrast across wide temperature range. |
Use Scenario: Operating status LEDs, mode indicators, and parameter readouts in HVAC, seat control, or infotainment subsystems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Standalone display controller handling alphanumeric characters and custom graphics without MCU intervention. Use Value: Independent VLCD/VDD supplies allow low-voltage MCU interfacing while driving higher-VLCD LCDs for improved readability. |
| Battery-Powered Healthcare Device | Industrial Control Interface |
|
Use Scenario: Glucose meter, blood pressure monitor, or portable diagnostic tool with segmented LCD readout. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power segment driver enabling >1-year battery life using coin-cell or AA batteries. Use Value: 1.8 V minimum supply and <10 µA power-down current extend operational lifetime; blinking modes support alarm visibility. |
Use Scenario: Operator interface on PLC modules, motor drives, or sensor transmitters requiring ruggedized local display. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Automotive-grade LCD driver immune to vibration, thermal cycling, and EMI in factory environments. Use Value: TSSOP48 package withstands industrial reflow profiles; internal bias generator reduces sensitivity to supply ripple and layout parasitics. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LCD segment driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCF8576CT | I²C interface (400 kHz), 40×4 segment/backplane, but no AEC-Q100 qualification; operates only to +85 °C. | Targeted at consumer/industrial displays-not certified for automotive under-hood or dashboard use. | Choose PCF8576CT only if AEC-Q100 is not required and higher segment count (40 vs. 36) is needed. |
| MAX6955 | 2-wire serial interface (not I²C-compatible), 28×4 segment/backplane, integrated charge pump for VLCD generation. | Designed for LED+LCD hybrid displays; lacks frame inversion and has fixed 1:4 multiplex only. | Select MAX6955 when VLCD generation from VDD is preferred and mixed LED/LCD signaling is required. |
Compared with PCF8576CT and MAX6955, PCA8551ATT/AJ uniquely combines AEC-Q100 Grade 2 certification, full I²C compatibility, software-selectable multiplex/bias modes, and independent VLCD/VDD supplies-making it the only option qualified for automotive instrument clusters demanding long-term reliability at +105 °C.
Availability
PCA8551ATT/AJ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive instrument clusters, battery-powered healthcare devices, and industrial control interfaces requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for PCA8551ATT/AJ 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
NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor company specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications.
The PCA8551 belongs to NXP's automotive-qualified LCD driver product line, engineered specifically for high-reliability segmented displays in vehicle instrumentation and human-machine interfaces where AEC-Q100 compliance and thermal robustness are mandatory.
FAQ
What interface protocol does the PCA8551ATT/AJ support?
The PCA8551ATT/AJ supports only the I²C-bus interface (400 kHz standard mode), as confirmed by its part number suffix "A" and pinout (SCL/SDA present, CE/SDIO absent). It does not support SPI-those variants carry "B" suffixes like PCA8551BTT/AJ. The I²C interface simplifies host connection with just two wires plus pull-ups, and the PCA8551ATT/AJ fully complies with I²C electrical specifications including rise/fall time and noise immunity requirements.
Is the PCA8551ATT/AJ qualified for automotive applications?
Yes, the PCA8551ATT/AJ is AEC-Q100 Grade 2 qualified, meaning it is tested and certified for operation from –40 °C to +105 °C ambient temperature-meeting stringent automotive reliability standards for instrument clusters and control panels. This qualification covers thermal cycling, humidity testing, and ESD robustness, and is explicitly stated in the official NXP datasheet Rev. 3.1. No derating or additional qualification is required for Grade 2 deployment.
How many LCD segments can the PCA8551ATT/AJ drive?
The PCA8551ATT/AJ drives up to 144 LCD segments/elements, calculated as 36 segment outputs × 4 backplane outputs in 1:4 multiplex mode. This supports configurations such as 18 seven-segment digits (including decimal points), 9 fourteen-segment alphanumeric characters, or arbitrary graphic layouts-each segment controlled independently via 144-bit display RAM mapped across addresses 04h–17h with auto-increment capability.
Does the PCA8551ATT/AJ require external bias resistors?
No, the PCA8551ATT/AJ integrates a buffered LCD bias generator that produces precise 1/3 or 1/2 bias voltages directly from VLCD-eliminating the need for external resistor networks. This internal generation ensures stable bias ratios across temperature and supply variation, reduces PCB area and BOM cost, and improves display contrast consistency compared to discrete bias solutions.
What is the function of the PORE pin on the PCA8551ATT/AJ?
The PORE (Power-On Reset Enable) pin on the PCA8551ATT/AJ controls activation of the internal POR circuit: connecting PORE to VDD enables automatic reset during power-up, while connecting it to VSS (or leaving it open) disables POR-requiring either an external RST pulse or software reset to initialize the device. A series resistance ≤1 kΩ between VDD and PORE is mandatory for reliable POR operation, per Section 15.3 of the datasheet.
PCA8551ATT/AJ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 48-TFSOP (0.240", 6.10mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Display Type:
- LCD
- Configuration:
- 144 Segment
- Interface:
- I2C
- Digits or Characters:
- 9 Characters, 18 Characters, 144 Elements
- Current - Supply:
- 1.8 µA
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.8V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 105°C
- Grade:
- Automotive
- Qualification:
- AEC-Q100
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 48-TSSOP
PCA8551ATT/AJ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for PCA8551ATT/AJ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for PCA8551ATT/AJ 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 PCA8551ATT/AJ reliable?
The price and inventory of PCA8551ATT/AJ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for PCA8551ATT/AJ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for PCA8551ATT/AJ?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for PCA8551ATT/AJ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for PCA8551ATT/AJ?
PCA8551ATT/AJ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your PCA8551ATT/AJ 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 PCA8551ATT/AJ?
For technical support, including PCA8551ATT/AJ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your PCA8551ATT/AJ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that PCA8551ATT/AJ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All PCA8551ATT/AJ 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 PCA8551ATT/AJ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of PCA8551ATT/AJ?
All PCA8551ATT/AJ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with PCA8551ATT/AJ, 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 PCA8551ATT/AJ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for PCA8551ATT/AJ:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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