STMicroelectronics STP16CP596XTTR

Overview

STP16CP596XTTR from STMicroelectronics is a 16-bit constant-current LED sink driver in TSSOP-24 exposed-pad package, designed for serial-in/parallel-out LED panel control. It delivers adjustable 3–50 mA per channel via external R_EXT, supports 25 MHz clock input, and guarantees 16 V output driving capability for multi-LED series strings. Used in indoor LED signage and industrial status displays requiring precise current regulation and thermal robustness.

For engineers reviewing the STP16CP596XTTR datasheet, STP16CP596XTTR pinout, STP16CP596XTTR application, or STP16CP596XTTR equivalent, key selection criteria include output current accuracy (±1% typical between bits at 40 mA), thermal resistance (37.5 °C/W with exposed pad soldered), 3.3 V logic compatibility, and cascade-capable serial data chaining via SDO.

Technical Context

The device 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. Output enable (OE) is active-low and supports global blanking with <70 ns propagation delay.

Each of the 16 sink outputs uses a regulated current source referenced to an external resistor (R_EXT), delivering tightly matched current across channels - ±1% typical inter-channel error at 40 mA and ≥1.4 V output voltage. The exposed thermal pad reduces junction-to-ambient thermal resistance to 37.5 °C/W, doubling heat dissipation versus standard TSSOP-24.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TSSOP-24 with exposed thermal pad (electrically unconnected); requires PCB thermal land connection for rated 37.5 °C/W thermal performance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLC59283RTJR, STP16CP596XTTR offers simpler analog brightness control but no PWM; compared with STPIC6C595MTR, it eliminates external resistors and provides ±1% current matching - critical for consistent LED luminance in professional signage.

Availability

STP16CP596XTTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for indoor LED signage, industrial HMI panels, and automated test equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term manufacturability, and thermal reliability in compact TSSOP packages.

Supply support for STP16CP596XTTR 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, designing and manufacturing analog, digital, and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The STP16CP596 belongs to ST's LED driver product line, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, thermally constrained LED display systems requiring high channel count, precise current matching, and 3.3 V microcontroller compatibility.

FAQ

What is the function of the exposed thermal pad on the STP16CP596XTTR package?

The exposed pad is electrically isolated but thermally connected to the die substrate. When soldered to a PCB copper pour, it reduces junction-to-ambient thermal resistance from 85 °C/W (standard TSSOP-24) to 37.5 °C/W - enabling sustained 50 mA/channel operation at +85 °C ambient. No electrical connection is required or recommended.

How does the R-EXT pin set output current, and what resistor value yields 20 mA per channel at 5 V supply?

R-EXT connects between pin 23 and GND; output current scales inversely with its value. At V_DD = 5 V, a 1 kΩ resistor sets nominal 20 mA per channel (±2% typical). The relationship is I_OUT ≈ 20 mA × (1 kΩ / R_EXT). Values below 680 Ω risk exceeding 50 mA absolute maximum.

Can multiple STP16CP596XTTR devices be cascaded, and what timing constraint applies?

Yes - connect SDO of one device to SDI of the next. Each device adds 25 ns propagation delay (CLK→SDO), limiting maximum cascade depth before clock skew affects setup/hold timing. For 25 MHz operation, total chain delay must stay under 20 ns margin; ST recommends ≤3 devices in series without re-timing.

What is the minimum pulse width required on the LE (latch enable) input for reliable operation?

At V_DD = 3.3 V, the minimum LE high-pulse width is 20 ns per datasheet Table 6. This ensures the storage register reliably captures shift register contents. Shorter pulses may cause partial or failed latching, resulting in erratic output states - especially critical in high-speed LED refresh systems.