STMicroelectronics STP16CL596B1R

Overview

STP16CL596B1R from STMicroelectronics is a 16-bit constant-current LED sink driver in DIP-24 package, designed for serial-in/parallel-out LED panel control with adjustable per-channel current (15–90 mA), 25 MHz clock support, and 16 V output voltage capability. It operates from 3.0–3.6 V supply and features daisy-chainable serial output synchronized to clock falling edges for skew-tolerant cascading in large display systems.

For engineers reviewing the STP16CL596B1R datasheet, STP16CL596B1R pinout, STP16CL596B1R application, or STP16CL596B1R equivalent, key selection criteria include output current adjustability via R_EXT, thermal performance of DIP-24 vs. exposed-pad TSSOP variants, latch timing (20 ns LE pulse width), and guaranteed ±3% channel-to-channel current matching at 0.7 V output drop.

Technical Context

The device integrates a 16-bit shift register followed by a D-type storage latch, enabling independent data latching and output updating. Output enable (OE) is active-low and provides global shutdown with 400 ns minimum pulse width, while latch enable (LE) controls synchronous transfer from shift register to output stage.

Each of the 16 sink outputs delivers regulated current determined by an external resistor (R_EXT) connected to pin 23, supporting precise brightness control across LEDs. The serial output (SDO) toggles on clock falling edges-critical for maintaining signal integrity in long daisy chains where clock skew would otherwise cause timing violations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

STP16CL596B1R uses a 24-pin plastic DIP package (0.600" width) with through-hole mounting. The exposed pad variant is not used in this orderable part; thermal dissipation relies on PCB copper area under the body and leads.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLC59283PWPR and MAX7219CWG+, STP16CL596B1R offers unique flexibility in analog current setting, wide output voltage headroom, and 3.3 V native operation-making it optimal for custom LED arrays where brightness uniformity and supply simplicity are prioritized over embedded PWM.

Availability

STP16CL596B1R is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED video wall panels, industrial HMI displays, architectural lighting controls, and test equipment status indicators requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for STP16CL596B1R 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 automotive, industrial, and power management solutions with broad IP and manufacturing scale.

The STP16CL596 belongs to ST's LED driver product line, engineered specifically for high-reliability, medium-voltage constant-current sinking in signage, instrumentation, and panel display applications where thermal robustness and timing precision are critical.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation of STP16CL596B1R?

The STP16CL596B1R operates reliably from 3.0 V to 3.6 V, with recommended conditions specifying 3.3 V typical. At 3.0 V, all timing parameters (e.g., 20 ns LE pulse width, 25 MHz clock) remain valid, and output current remains within specification when R_EXT is selected accordingly. Below 3.0 V, latch functionality and current regulation degrade.

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

The SDO output toggles on the falling edge of CLK-unlike standard shift registers that change on rising edges-so data launched from one device arrives at the next device's SDI input during the stable portion of the subsequent CLK high period. This eliminates setup/hold violations caused by inter-device clock skew in long chains, enabling reliable 10+ device cascades without additional clock buffering.

Can STP16CL596B1R drive multiple LEDs in series per output channel?

Yes. Each OUT pin supports up to 16 V output compliance, allowing series connection of typically 4–5 standard white/blue LEDs (V_f ≈ 3.2–3.4 V each) without external voltage boosting. The device maintains constant current regardless of forward voltage variation across the string, provided total V_f ≤ 16 V and output voltage drop stays ≥0.7 V for regulation.

Is the exposed pad on the TSSOP version electrically connected?

No. According to ST's datasheet (Table 2 note), the exposed pad on TSSOP24 variants is electrically unconnected-it serves only as a thermal interface. For STP16CL596B1R (DIP-24), no exposed pad exists; thermal management relies on lead-frame conduction and PCB copper area under the package body and pins.