STMicroelectronics STP16C596MTR

Overview

STP16C596MTR from STMicroelectronics is a 16-bit constant-current LED sink driver IC designed for serial-to-parallel LED panel driving. It delivers precise 15–120 mA per channel via external R_EXT, supports 25 MHz clocking, and features daisy-chainable SDO with falling-edge data propagation. Used in indoor LED signage and dot-matrix displays requiring uniform brightness and high refresh rates.

For engineers reviewing the STP16C596MTR datasheet, STP16C596MTR pinout, STP16C596MTR application, or STP16C596MTR equivalent, key selection criteria include output current adjustability (via R_EXT), 16 V output voltage capability, thermal performance of SO-24 package, and timing compatibility in cascaded LED scan architectures.

Technical Context

The STP16C596 integrates a 16-bit shift register followed by a D-type storage latch, enabling synchronous update of all 16 outputs on LE high-to-low transition. Its output stage uses sixteen matched current sources with ±3% channel-to-channel accuracy at V_O ≥ 0.7 V.

Serial data propagation occurs on CLK falling edges-reducing skew sensitivity in long daisy chains. Output enable (OE) is active-low and supports global blanking with 400 ns minimum pulse width, while latch control (LE) isolates input shifting from output state updates.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

STP16C596MTR is housed in a 24-pin SOIC (SO-24) package with standard 1.27 mm pitch, compliant with JEDEC MS-012, and RoHS-compliant ECOPACK® construction.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLC59283DBQR and MAX7219CWG+, the STP16C596MTR offers superior daisy-chain scalability and higher output voltage for extended LED strings, but requires external PWM for grayscale-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, high-channel-count signage over feature-rich embedded-display applications.

Availability

STP16C596MTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for indoor LED signage, dot-matrix display modules, architectural lighting controls, and test equipment indicators requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial availability.

Supply support for STP16C596MTR 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, delivering automotive, industrial, and power discrete solutions with emphasis on reliability and energy efficiency.

The STP16C596 belongs to ST's LED driver product line, engineered specifically for high-density, constant-current LED matrix control in commercial signage and industrial HMI applications where timing precision and thermal robustness are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum external R_EXT value supported for 120 mA per channel?

The STP16C596 achieves 120 mA per channel with R_EXT ≈ 250 Ω, verified per Table 7 (IOL2 at REXT = 250 Ω). Lower values risk exceeding absolute maximum output current (120 mA) and may degrade current matching. ST recommends staying within 250–910 Ω for stable operation across temperature and supply variation.

Can STP16C596MTR drive white LEDs with V_F = 3.2 V each in series?

Yes-its 16 V output voltage rating supports up to four 3.2 V white LEDs (12.8 V total) plus 1.5 V margin for current-source compliance. At 5 V supply, the device drops only V_DD − V_OUT across its internal pass elements, so thermal design must account for (16 V − 12.8 V) × 50 mA = 160 mW per channel at full load.

How does the falling-edge SDO behavior improve daisy-chain timing?

By aligning SDO transitions to CLK falling edges-not rising-the STP16C596 eliminates setup-time violations caused by inter-device clock skew. In long chains, this ensures bit N+1 arrives at the next device before its CLK rising edge, preserving data integrity without added delay buffers or reduced clock rates.

Is the SO-24 package of STP16C596MTR thermally adequate for continuous 100 mA/channel operation?

At 100 mA × 16 channels = 1.6 A total output current and 5 V supply, power dissipation reaches ~1.1 W (including quiescent). With R_thJA = 75 °C/W, junction temperature rise is ~83 °C above ambient-acceptable at T_A ≤ 60 °C. For higher ambient or sustained loads, add PCB copper pour under pin 1 (GND) and use 2 oz copper layers.