Texas Instruments TLC59213IN

Overview

TLC59213IN from Texas Instruments is an 8-bit parallel-input Darlington source driver IC with latch, designed for high-current LED and relay matrix driving in industrial control systems. It delivers up to –500 mA per channel, features TTL/CMOS-compatible inputs (V_IL = 0.8 V, V_IH = 2 V), supports 4.5–13.2 V supply, and operates across –40°C to 85°C. Its CLR and CLK control enables synchronized output updates in printer head and display scan applications.

For engineers reviewing the TLC59213IN datasheet, TLC59213IN pinout, TLC59213IN application, or TLC59213IN equivalent, key selection criteria include verified Darlington output saturation voltage (V_CE(sus) = 13.2 V), input hold time (t_h = 25 ns at 0–70°C), switching speed (t_PLH/t_PHL ≤ 250 ns), and PDIP-20 package thermal derating curves for multi-channel conduction.

Technical Context

The TLC59213IN integrates eight independent positive-edge-triggered D-type flip-flops, each controlling a Darlington transistor with collector tied to V_CC and emitter connected to load. Input data (D1–D8) is latched on CLK rising edge only when CLR is high; low CLR forces all outputs OFF regardless of CLK or D states.

Each output includes an integrated clamp diode to ground for inductive load protection. The device uses bipolar Darlington architecture-not MOSFET-so it exhibits V_CE(sus) = 13.2 V and typical V_CE = 1.96–2.35 V at I_OUT = –100 to –350 mA, with leakage current < 2 µA when off.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: PDIP-20 (N package), body size 24.33 mm × 6.35 mm, through-hole mounting, RoHS-compliant NIPDAU lead finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLC59213IN, the TLC59213AIPWR offers identical logic behavior in a smaller, thermally optimized package with improved timing, while TLC59210IPW serves complementary sink applications but demands redesign due to inverted current direction and missing protection diodes.

Availability

TLC59213IN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial HMI displays, inkjet printer subsystems, and relay-based control modules requiring stable component supply over extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for TLC59213IN 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 connectivity technologies, with decades of experience in industrial-grade interface and driver ICs.

The TLC59213x family was developed specifically for high-reliability, high-current source-driving applications in printing, display, and electromechanical control systems-emphasizing robustness, latch synchronization, and integrated protection.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous output current per channel for TLC59213IN at 25°C?

The TLC59213IN supports up to –500 mA per channel under pulsed conditions, but continuous DC current is limited by thermal constraints. At 25°C ambient and single-channel operation in PDIP-20, the absolute maximum is –350 mA. With all eight channels active simultaneously, the recommended limit drops to –170 mA per channel to maintain junction temperature below 125°C.

Does TLC59213IN require external flyback diodes when driving relay coils?

No. The TLC59213IN includes integrated clamp diodes from each Y1–Y8 output to GND, explicitly designed to suppress inductive kickback from relay and solenoid loads. This eliminates the need for external diodes in standard configurations, reducing BOM count and PCB area.

Can TLC59213IN be used with a 3.3 V microcontroller for D and CLK inputs?

Yes. The TLC59213IN accepts TTL/5-V CMOS logic levels: V_IL ≤ 0.8 V and V_IH ≥ 2.0 V. A 3.3 V MCU's high-level output (typically > 2.4 V) exceeds the minimum V_IH, and its low-level output (< 0.4 V) satisfies V_IL. No level-shifting circuitry is required for direct interface.

How does the CLR input interact with the CLK signal in TLC59213IN?

The CLR input is asynchronous and dominant: when CLR is low, all Y1–Y8 outputs are forced OFF immediately, regardless of CLK state or D-input values. Only when CLR is high does the device respond to CLK edges to latch new data from D1–D8 into the output registers.

What is the purpose of the V_CE(sus) = 13.2 V specification in TLC59213IN?

V_CE(sus) = 13.2 V is the guaranteed minimum collector-emitter sustaining voltage-the maximum voltage the Darlington output can block in the OFF state without breakdown. This parameter ensures safe operation with 12 V relay coils and accounts for inductive voltage spikes during turn-off, defining the device's ruggedness in real-world switching applications.