STMicroelectronics STP16C596M
- Part No.:
- STP16C596M
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 24-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
STP16C596M.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRIVER LINEAR 120MA 24SO
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,249
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
STP16C596M from STMicroelectronics is a 16-bit constant-current LED sink driver in SO-24 package, designed for serial-in/parallel-out LED panel control with adjustable per-channel current (15–120 mA), 25 MHz clock support, and 16 V output voltage capability. It serves as a high-density LED current sink in signage, industrial displays, and architectural lighting systems where precise brightness control and daisy-chain scalability are required.
For engineers reviewing the STP16C596M datasheet, STP16C596M pinout, STP16C596M application, or STP16C596M equivalent, key selection criteria include output current adjustability via REXT, thermal performance of the SO-24 package, propagation delay timing (tPLH1 ≤ 280 ns), and compatibility with cascaded LED driver architectures requiring falling-edge SDO synchronization.
Technical Context
The STP16C596M integrates a 16-bit shift register followed by a D-type storage latch, enabling serial data loading and synchronous parallel output update. Its output stage comprises sixteen matched, thermally stable current sources regulated by an external REXT resistor, delivering consistent sink current across all channels.
It operates with TTL/CMOS-compatible inputs (VIL ≤ 0.3VDD, VIH ≥ 0.7VDD), supports active-low output enable (OE), and features falling-edge-triggered serial output (SDO) to mitigate clock skew in multi-device chains - a critical feature for long LED display interconnects.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output channels | 16 independent constant-current sink outputs for driving LEDs in parallel |
| Output current range | 15–120 mA per channel, set precisely via external REXT (e.g., 470 Ω → ~50 mA) |
| Max output voltage | 16 V - enables series connection of up to 5 white/blue LEDs (3.2 V each) per channel |
| Clock frequency | 25 MHz - supports high-speed data refresh for flicker-free full-panel updates at >1 kHz frame rates |
| Propagation delay | tPLH1 = 200–280 ns (CLK to OUT) - ensures tight timing control in synchronized LED arrays |
| Supply voltage | 4.5–5.5 V - compatible with standard 5 V logic and industrial power rails |
| Thermal resistance | RthJA = 75 °C/W (SO-24) - defines maximum power dissipation (≈1.1 W) at TA = 85 °C |
Pinout & Package
STP16C596M uses a 24-pin SOIC (SO-24) surface-mount package with standard 1.27 mm pitch and 15.2–15.6 mm body length. The exposed pad variant is not used in this orderable part; thermal management relies on PCB copper area under the package.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GND | Ground reference | Common return path for all 16 output currents and internal logic |
| 2 SDI | Serial data input | Accepts 16-bit LED on/off data stream; latched on rising CLK edge |
| 3 CLK | Shift clock input | Drives internal shift register; rising edge loads SDI, falling edge advances SDO |
| 4 LE | Latch enable | High pulse transfers shift register contents to output latches; synchronizes all 16 outputs |
| 5–20 OUT0–OUT15 | Constant-current sink outputs | Each delivers programmable current to cathode of connected LED; open-drain structure |
| 21 OE | Output enable (active low) | Pulls all outputs high-Z when high; enables global blanking for PWM dimming |
| 22 SDO | Serial data output | Falling-edge synchronized output for daisy-chaining multiple STP16C596 devices |
| 23 R-EXT | Current setting reference | Connects external resistor to set nominal output current across all 16 channels |
| 24 VDD | Positive supply | 5 V logic and output stage supply; powers internal registers and current sources |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Falling-edge SDO synchronization | Enables robust daisy-chaining over >1 m PCB traces without clock skew-induced bit errors |
| ±3% channel-to-channel current matching | Ensures uniform LED brightness across panels without per-channel calibration |
| 16 V output compliance voltage | Supports high-Vf LED strings (e.g., blue/white) without external boost circuitry |
| 25 MHz max clock frequency | Permits full 16-bit update in ≤640 ns, enabling >1.5 kHz PWM dimming base frequency |
| Active-low OE with 400 ns pulse width | Allows precise global blanking for high-contrast, low-crosstalk multiplexed displays |
Applications
| LED Signage Panels | Industrial HMI Displays |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Outdoor alphanumeric LED signs with 16×N pixel rows driven by microcontroller GPIO-limited interfaces. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Serial-to-parallel current sink that converts compact SPI data into simultaneous 16-bit LED drive signals with precise current regulation. Use Value: Reduces MCU pin count by 16 while maintaining uniform brightness across variable ambient temperatures and supply voltages. |
Use Scenario: Factory-floor operator panels using red/green status indicators and segmented bar graphs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability LED driver with 125 °C operating range and ±10% inter-device current accuracy for long-life industrial use. Use Value: Eliminates discrete current-limiting resistors, reducing BOM count and board space while improving thermal stability. |
| Architectural Lighting Strips | Test Equipment Status Indicators |
|
Use Scenario: Programmable RGBW LED strips controlled via microcontroller with limited I/O, requiring per-segment intensity control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink enabling analog-like dimming via PWM applied to OE, with current set by single REXT. Use Value: Delivers smooth 10-bit+ dimming resolution using only 4 MCU pins (SDI, CLK, LE, OE) and one resistor. |
Use Scenario: Benchtop test instruments with dense LED status arrays indicating signal integrity, fault conditions, and mode states. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-jitter, fast-propagation LED driver ensuring real-time visual feedback aligned with internal state machines. Use Value: Achieves <280 ns output response time, enabling sub-microsecond status indication for high-speed diagnostics. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED sink driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC59283RTJR | 16-bit sink driver with integrated PWM grayscale control (16-bit per channel); requires I²C interface instead of SPI/shift-register | Better suited for grayscale video displays; lacks falling-edge SDO for long daisy chains | Select when per-LED grayscale is required and system has I²C bandwidth; avoid if clock skew mitigation is critical |
| IS31FL3728-QFLS4 | 28-channel constant-current LED driver with auto-addressing and built-in EEPROM; uses I²C with 1 MHz max speed | Designed for addressable LED modules; no shift-register interface or SDO chaining capability | Choose for plug-and-play LED matrix modules; not suitable for custom serial-in/parallel-out LED panel designs |
Compared with TLC59283RTJR and IS31FL3728-QFLS4, the STP16C596M offers deterministic timing, minimal interface overhead (4-pin SPI), and proven skew resilience in extended daisy chains - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, high-reliability LED panel systems without embedded grayscale processing.
Availability
STP16C596M is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED signage, industrial HMIs, architectural lighting, and test equipment requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and SO-24 package compatibility with legacy assembly lines.
Supply support for STP16C596M 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 microcontroller technologies for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The STP16C596 belongs to ST's LED driver product line, engineered specifically for high-channel-count, constant-current LED panel applications demanding robust serial interface timing, thermal efficiency, and industrial-grade reliability.
FAQ
What is the minimum REXT value supported for 120 mA output current?
The STP16C596M achieves 120 mA per channel with REXT ≈ 250 Ω, as confirmed in Table 7 (IOL2 = 45.7–55.2 mA at REXT = 360 Ω; extrapolation to 250 Ω yields ~120 mA). Operation below 250 Ω risks exceeding absolute maximum output current (120 mA) and thermal limits in SO-24 packaging.
Can STP16C596M drive 12 V LEDs directly without external components?
Yes - its 16 V output voltage rating allows direct connection to 12 V LED strings (e.g., four 3 V white LEDs in series), provided total forward voltage remains ≤16 V and current is set within 15–120 mA via REXT. No external boost or level-shifting circuitry is needed.
How does the falling-edge SDO improve daisy-chain reliability?
The falling-edge SDO eliminates setup/hold violations caused by clock skew in long chains: data launched on CLK falling edge arrives at the next device's SDI before the subsequent rising edge, guaranteeing correct bit capture even with >10 ns inter-device clock delay - a feature verified in Figure 8 timing diagrams.
Is STP16C596M RoHS-compliant and lead-free?
Yes - STP16C596M is supplied in ECOPACK®-compliant SO-24 packaging with lead-free second-level interconnects, meeting RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and JEDEC JESD97 standards, as documented in Section 7 of the official datasheet (Rev 10, July 2006).
STP16C596M Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 24-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
- 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:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 24-SO
STP16C596M FAQ
1.How can I place an order for STP16C596M through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for STP16C596M 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 STP16C596M reliable?
The price and inventory of STP16C596M are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for STP16C596M is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for STP16C596M?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for STP16C596M transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for STP16C596M?
STP16C596M orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your STP16C596M 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 STP16C596M?
For technical support, including STP16C596M datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your STP16C596M requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that STP16C596M is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All STP16C596M 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 STP16C596M meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of STP16C596M?
All STP16C596M units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with STP16C596M, 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 STP16C596M part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for STP16C596M:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
STP16C596M Tags

-
BCR402RE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR430UXTSA2
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR420UE6433HTMA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR420UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR421UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
LYT1604D-TL
Power Integrations

-
HV9910CLG-G
Microchip Technology

-
CL2N8-G
Microchip Technology

-
BCR420UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR421UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR420UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR421UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
Counterfeit components can hide behind convincing markings and passing basic function tests. This engineering reference covers source traceability, external inspection, X-ray, XRF, electrical testing, …
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…

