Texas Instruments TLC59213AIPWT

Overview

TLC59213AIPWT from Texas Instruments is an 8-bit parallel-input Darlington source driver with latch, designed for high-current LED and relay matrix driving in industrial displays and printer heads. It delivers up to –500 mA per channel, features TTL/CMOS-compatible inputs (V_IL = 0.8 V, V_IH = 2 V), and operates across –40°C to 85°C with V_CC from 4.5 V to 13.2 V.

For engineers reviewing the TLC59213AIPWT datasheet, TLC59213AIPWT pinout, TLC59213AIPWT application, or TLC59213AIPWT equivalent, key selection criteria include output saturation voltage (V_CE(sus) = 13.2 V), enhanced data hold time (t_h = 15–19 ns), integrated clamp diodes for inductive load switching, and TSSOP-20 package compatibility with high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The TLC59213AIPWT implements eight independent positive-edge-triggered D-type flip-flops, each controlling a Darlington transistor with collector tied to V_CC. Input data (D1–D8) is latched on CLK rising edge; CLR asynchronously forces all outputs OFF. Its architecture enables precise timing control for multiplexed LED matrices and resistive load scanning.

Unlike the base TLC59213, the TLC59213A variant specifies tighter hold time (t_h) - 15 ns at 4.5–5.5 V and 19 ns at 10.8–13.2 V - improving robustness against clock/data skew in MCU-driven systems. All inputs are fully compatible with 5-V logic families, including SN74LV594 serial-to-parallel converters.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TSSOP-20 package (6.50 mm × 4.40 mm, 1.2 mm max height), lead finish NIPDAU, moisture sensitivity level 1 (260°C peak reflow).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Darlington source driver applications.

Compared with TLC59213IPWR, the TLC59213AIPWT offers improved timing robustness for high-speed MCU interfacing; compared with TLC59213AIN, it enables surface-mount manufacturing and higher board density, though both share identical functional behavior and temperature rating.

Availability

TLC59213AIPWT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial HMI displays, inkjet printer head modules, and relay-based PLC I/O requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for TLC59213AIPWT 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management technologies, with decades of experience in industrial and automotive-grade IC design.

The TLC59213A series belongs to TI's high-current Darlington driver product line, engineered specifically for demanding electro-mechanical and optoelectronic interface applications such as printer heads, LED signage, and industrial relay control.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current per channel for the TLC59213AIPWT?

The TLC59213AIPWT supports up to –500 mA per channel under recommended operating conditions. This value assumes appropriate thermal management and duty cycle limits - for example, 350 mA maximum with <10% duty cycle in TSSOP package at 85°C ambient. The device's V_CE(sus) = 13.2 V rating ensures safe operation with 12-V loads, and its Darlington architecture maintains low saturation voltage even at full rated current. Always consult Figure 1 and Figure 2 in the SLVS867B datasheet for derating curves.

Does the TLC59213AIPWT require external flyback diodes when driving relay coils?

No, the TLC59213AIPWT does not require external flyback diodes when driving relay coils. Each output (Y1–Y8) integrates a clamp diode between the emitter and GND, which safely dissipates inductive energy during coil de-energization. This feature is explicitly documented in the "Features" section of the SLVS867B datasheet and eliminates the need for eight discrete diodes in relay matrix applications. However, layout best practices - such as minimizing trace inductance and using solid ground planes - remain essential for optimal clamping performance.

How does the hold time (t_h) of the TLC59213AIPWT differ from the standard TLC59213?

The TLC59213AIPWT specifies enhanced hold time: 15 ns at V_CC = 4.5–5.5 V and 19 ns at V_CC = 10.8–13.2 V, whereas the base TLC59213 has t_h = 25 ns only at V_CC = 4.5–5.5 V and is unspecified at higher voltages. This improvement increases timing margin for MCU interfaces operating across wide supply ranges, especially in noisy industrial environments where clock/data skew may occur. The difference is confirmed in Section 6.5 of SLVS867B and reflects a silicon-level revision specific to the "A" variant.

Can the TLC59213AIPWT be used with 3.3-V microcontrollers?

The TLC59213AIPWT is not guaranteed to operate reliably with 3.3-V microcontrollers because its input high-level threshold (V_IH) is specified as ≥2.0 V only under recommended conditions - but the device is designed for 5-V logic compatibility and lacks 3.3-V tolerant inputs. While some 3.3-V outputs may exceed 2.0 V, marginal noise margins and process variation risk setup/hold violations. TI recommends using level translators (e.g., SN74LVC1T45) or selecting a 3.3-V–compatible alternative like the TLC5928x series if interfacing with 3.3-V MCUs.

What is the thermal performance limitation of the TLC59213AIPWT in TSSOP-20 package?

The TLC59213AIPWT in TSSOP-20 (PW) package has a maximum junction temperature of 150°C and a thermal resistance θ_JA of approximately 100°C/W (typical, no copper pour). At 85°C ambient and full 500-mA output per channel, power dissipation exceeds safe limits without heatsinking or PCB copper area. Derating curves in Figures 1 and 2 of SLVS867B show that maximum continuous current drops to ~170 mA at 50% duty cycle and 85°C ambient. For sustained high-current operation, use generous copper pours, thermal vias, and consider the PDIP-20 option (TLC59213AIN) for better natural convection cooling.