STMicroelectronics STP16C596AB1R
- Part No.:
- STP16C596AB1R
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 24-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
STP16C596AB1R.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRIVER LINEAR 120MA 24DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,355
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Product details
Overview
STP16C596AB1R from STMicroelectronics is a 16-channel constant-current LED sink driver in DIP-24 package, designed for serial-to-parallel LED panel driving with adjustable per-channel current (15–120 mA), 25 MHz clock support, and 16 V output voltage capability. It integrates a 16-bit shift register and storage latch, enabling precise intensity control via external REXT resistor.
For engineers reviewing the STP16C596AB1R datasheet, STP16C596AB1R pinout, STP16C596AB1R application, or STP16C596AB1R equivalent, key selection criteria include daisy-chain timing robustness (falling-edge SDO), ±3% channel-to-channel current accuracy, thermal performance of DIP-24 vs exposed-pad TSSOP variants, and /OE-controlled global output enable functionality.
Technical Context
The device implements a two-stage architecture: a 16-bit serial-in/parallel-out shift register cascaded to a 16-bit D-type storage register, with independent /LE and /OE controls enabling synchronous latching and global output blanking. Output drivers are regulated current sinks with programmable compliance up to 16 V.
Serial data propagation uses falling-edge-triggered SDO, reducing skew sensitivity in long daisy chains. Current regulation relies on an external REXT connected to pin 23, setting full-scale output across all 16 channels with ±3% matching between outputs and ±6% variation across ICs.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Channels | 16 independent constant-current sink outputs (OUT0–OUT15) |
| Output Current Range | 15–120 mA per channel, set by external REXT (e.g., 910 Ω → ~20 mA, 360 Ω → ~50 mA) |
| Current Accuracy | ±3% max channel-to-channel mismatch; ±6% max unit-to-unit variation |
| Max Output Voltage | 16 V - supports driving up to 5 standard red LEDs (2.0 V each) in series per channel |
| Max Clock Frequency | 25 MHz - enables >400 kSPS serial update rate for full 16-bit load |
| Supply Voltage | 4.5–5.5 V (VDD) - compatible with standard 5 V logic and LED supply rails |
| Operating Temp | −40 °C to +125 °C - qualified for industrial and outdoor LED signage environments |
Pinout & Package
STP16C596AB1R is housed in a 24-pin Plastic Dual In-line Package (DIP-24) with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. The package provides mechanical robustness and natural convection cooling suitable for medium-power LED arrays without forced airflow.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GND | Ground reference | Common return path for all 16 output currents and internal logic; must be low-impedance connection |
| 2 SDI | Serial data input | CMOS-compatible input accepting LSB-first 16-bit data stream synchronized to CLK |
| 3 CLK | Clock input | Rising edge shifts data into shift register; falling edge updates SDO for daisy chaining |
| 4 /LE | Latch enable (active high) | Transfers 16-bit data from shift register to output storage register on rising edge |
| 5–20 OUT0–OUT15 | Constant-current sink outputs | Each drives LED cathode to GND; current set by REXT; 16 V max compliance |
| 21 /OE | Output enable (active low) | Global blanking control: pulls all outputs high-Z when logic high; enables PWM dimming |
| 22 SDO | Serial data output | Falling-edge-aligned output for cascading to next STP16C596A; supports long chain timing margin |
| 23 R-EXT | Current programming node | Connects external resistor to set full-scale output current; internal reference generates IOUT ∝ 1/REXT |
| 24 VDD | Positive supply | Powers internal logic and current regulators; decoupling capacitor required near pin |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Falling-edge SDO synchronization | Enables reliable daisy-chaining beyond 10+ devices by decoupling SDO timing from CLK skew |
| Adjustable per-channel current | Single REXT sets identical current across all 16 outputs, simplifying brightness calibration |
| 16 V output compliance | Supports series-connected LED strings (e.g., 5× red, 4× white) without external boost circuitry |
| High-speed 25 MHz interface | Reduces frame update latency in high-refresh-rate LED displays (e.g., >1 kHz PWM refresh) |
| Industrial temperature range | Guaranteed operation from −40 °C to +125 °C ambient, validated for outdoor signage and transport systems |
Applications
| LED Matrix Signage | Industrial Panel Indicators |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Outdoor variable-message signs using 16×16 red LED modules with multiplexed scanning. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Sink driver for column cathodes; receives serialized pixel data at 20 MHz and latches per-row data under /LE control. Use Value: ±3% current matching ensures uniform brightness across 256 LEDs; 16 V compliance allows 5-LED columns without voltage boosters. |
Use Scenario: Factory HMI panels with discrete status indicators requiring individual on/off control and intensity tuning. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink for 16 independent indicator LEDs; driven via microcontroller SPI with /OE used for emergency blink override. Use Value: Single REXT eliminates per-LED current-setting resistors; /OE enables system-level fault indication without firmware changes. |
| Architectural Lighting Controls | Test Equipment Front Panels |
|
Use Scenario: RGBW linear light strips with separate red, green, blue, and white segments controlled by multiple STP16C596AB1Rs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Channel-specific current sink for each color segment; synchronized latching across ICs via shared /LE and /OE lines. Use Value: 25 MHz clock supports real-time color gradient updates; falling-edge SDO prevents timing jitter in multi-IC daisy chains. |
Use Scenario: Benchtop test instruments with 16 status LEDs indicating measurement modes, ranges, and error conditions. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: LED driver interfaced to MCU GPIOs; /OE tied to power-on reset to blank LEDs during boot. Use Value: DIP-24 package enables hand-soldering and prototyping; 125 °C rating ensures reliability in enclosed instrument enclosures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar constant-current LED sink driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC5916IDR | 16-channel sink driver; 3–20 mA range (fixed gain); no REXT adjustment; 30 MHz max clock | Lower current range limits use with high-brightness LEDs; lacks 16 V compliance (max 17 V but derated at high temp) | Select when precise low-current (<20 mA) drive is needed and external resistor trimming is undesirable |
| MAX7219CWG+ | Integrated 8×8 matrix controller with SPI interface, on-chip BCD decode, and scan control; 40 mA/channel | Self-contained display controller vs pure sink driver; requires no external shift/latch logic but less flexible for custom topologies | Select for fixed 8×8 LED matrices where integrated scan timing and brightness DAC simplify firmware |
Compared with TLC5916IDR and MAX7219CWG+, STP16C596AB1R offers wider current adjustability (15–120 mA), higher output voltage headroom (16 V), and explicit daisy-chain timing control-making it optimal for scalable, high-brightness, custom LED array designs requiring manual timing orchestration.
Availability
STP16C596AB1R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED matrix signage, industrial panel indicators, architectural lighting controls, and test equipment front panels requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial-grade availability.
Supply support for STP16C596AB1R 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
STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, specializing in power management, analog, MEMS, and microcontrollers for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The STP16C596A belongs to ST's LED driver portfolio targeting medium-voltage, constant-current panel display applications-designed to replace discrete transistor/resistor solutions with integrated, thermally robust, and timing-optimized sink drivers.
FAQ
What is the function of the /LE pin on STP16C596AB1R?
The /LE (Latch Enable) pin is active-high and controls transfer of data from the internal 16-bit shift register to the output storage register. When /LE transitions from low to high, the currently shifted-in 16-bit pattern is latched and appears simultaneously on OUT0–OUT15. While /LE is low, the storage register holds its state regardless of new serial data, enabling precise update timing.
Can STP16C596AB1R drive white LEDs directly?
Yes-each output supports up to 16 V compliance, sufficient for driving 4–5 standard white LEDs (3.0–3.4 V forward voltage each) in series per channel. With REXT set for 20–30 mA, it delivers consistent brightness without external current-setting resistors or boost converters.
How does the falling-edge SDO improve daisy-chain reliability?
Falling-edge SDO means serial data propagates on the CLK falling edge-not rising-decoupling output timing from clock skew accumulation. In long chains (>5 ICs), this prevents setup/hold violations at downstream SDI inputs, allowing stable 25 MHz operation even with PCB trace length mismatches or marginal clock distribution.
Is the exposed pad on STP16C596AB1R electrically connected?
No-the STP16C596AB1R variant is packaged in DIP-24, which has no exposed thermal pad. The exposed-pad versions (e.g., STP16C596AXTTR) use TSSOP24 with an isolated copper pad soldered to PCB ground plane solely for thermal conduction, not electrical connection.
STP16C596AB1R Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 24-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- Shift Register
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 16
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 4.5V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output:
- 16V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 120mA
- Frequency:
- 25MHz
- Dimming:
- -
- Applications:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 24-DIP
STP16C596AB1R FAQ
1.How can I place an order for STP16C596AB1R through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for STP16C596AB1R 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 STP16C596AB1R reliable?
The price and inventory of STP16C596AB1R are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for STP16C596AB1R is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for STP16C596AB1R?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for STP16C596AB1R transactions.
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4.How is shipping managed for STP16C596AB1R?
STP16C596AB1R orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your STP16C596AB1R 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 STP16C596AB1R?
For technical support, including STP16C596AB1R datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your STP16C596AB1R requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that STP16C596AB1R is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All STP16C596AB1R 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 STP16C596AB1R meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of STP16C596AB1R?
All STP16C596AB1R units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with STP16C596AB1R, 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 STP16C596AB1R part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for STP16C596AB1R:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
STP16C596AB1R Tags

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BCR402RE6327HTSA1
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BCR430UXTSA2
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BCR420UE6433HTMA1
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BCR420UE6327HTSA1
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BCR421UE6327HTSA1
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LYT1604D-TL
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HV9910CLG-G
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CL2N8-G
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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
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