Texas Instruments TLC5924EVM-186

Overview

TLC5924EVM-186 from Texas Instruments is an evaluation module designed to test and demonstrate the operation of the TLC5923 and TLC5924 16-channel constant-current LED drivers. It features dual IC support (TLC5923DAP and TLC5924DAP), 32 discrete LEDs (16 red + 16 green), USB-based control via a dedicated interface adapter, and hardware-selectable IC activation via SPDT switch S1.

For engineers reviewing the TLC5924EVM-186 datasheet, TLC5924EVM-186 pinout, TLC5924EVM-186 application, or TLC5924EVM-186 equivalent, this EVM enables rapid validation of dot-correction programming, time-multiplexed LED driving, precharge FET functionality, and real-time frame sequencing in LED display systems.

Technical Context

The TLC5924EVM-186 implements parallel evaluation of two distinct LED driver ICs: the TLC5923 (16-channel, dot-correction only) and TLC5924 (16-channel, dot-correction + integrated precharge FET). Signal routing is managed by SN74AVC16244 buffer IC to isolate inputs and condition timing signals including SIN_IN, SCLK_IN, XLAT_IN, and BLNK_IN.

LED banks are physically separated into red (Bank A) and green (Bank B), each driven through independent P-channel MOSFETs (Q1/Q2) controlled by ENA_IN/ENB_IN. Multiplex Mode relies on high-speed bank switching (>100 Hz) synchronized with dynamic reprogramming of both ON/OFF and dot-correction registers per cycle.

Key Specifications

Availability

TLC5924EVM-186 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED display prototyping, dot-correction algorithm development, and precharge FET performance comparison requiring stable component supply and full evaluation infrastructure.

Supply support for TLC5924EVM-186 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 company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and digital signal processing technologies.

The TLC5924EVM-186 belongs to TI's LED driver evaluation platform family, developed specifically to accelerate design-in of constant-current LED drivers in signage, instrumentation, and multiplexed display applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the TLC5924EVM-186?

The TLC5924EVM-186 is an evaluation module that enables hands-on testing of the TLC5923 and TLC5924 16-channel LED drivers. It provides hardware-level access to all control signals (SIN_IN, SCLK_IN, XLAT_IN, etc.), dual-bank LED arrays, and software-driven frame sequencing - allowing engineers to validate dot-correction calibration, precharge FET behavior, and time-multiplexed driving without custom PCB design. The TLC5924EVM-186 supports both Single-Bank and Multiplex Modes via its included LED Frame Designer software.

Does the TLC5924EVM-186 include both TLC5923 and TLC5924 ICs simultaneously?

Yes, the TLC5924EVM-186 integrates both the TLC5923DAP and TLC5924DAP ICs on the same PCB, wired in parallel and sharing common interface signals. A physical SPDT switch (S1) allows users to power and activate only one IC at a time - enabling direct side-by-side comparison of their functional differences, especially the precharge FET's effect on ghosting suppression in multiplexed LED strings. The TLC5924EVM-186 schematic confirms U1 = TLC5924DAP and U2 = TLC5923DAP.

What power supplies are required to operate the TLC5924EVM-186?

The TLC5924EVM-186 requires two separate DC power sources: a 3.3 V ±0.1 V supply delivering ≥500 mA for IC bias (connected to J2/VIN), and a 4–17 V supply delivering ≥2000 mA for LED driving (connected to J4/VLED). These are specified in Table 3 of the SLVU187A User's Guide. Using incorrect voltage or insufficient current may cause unstable operation or failure to drive all 32 LEDs at rated brightness. The TLC5924EVM-186 does not derive power from the USB interface adapter.

How does the TLC5924EVM-186 implement multiplexed LED driving?

The TLC5924EVM-186 achieves multiplexing using two external P-channel MOSFETs (Q1 and Q2) to alternately connect Bank A (red LEDs) and Bank B (green LEDs) to the active LED driver IC. The software rapidly cycles between banks - updating DOT correction and ON/OFF data for each bank before switching - creating the visual illusion of simultaneous illumination. This method relies on precise timing synchronization between XLAT_IN latching and ENA_IN/ENB_IN enable signals, and is only fully observable when the TLC5924 IC is selected due to its precharge FET eliminating turn-on spikes. The TLC5924EVM-186 User's Guide documents this behavior in Section 1.5.2.

Is the USB Interface Adapter included with the TLC5924EVM-186?

No, the USB Interface Adapter (orderable part number USBINTERFACEADAPTEREVM) is a separate accessory and is not bundled with the TLC5924EVM-186. The TLC5924EVM-186 User's Guide explicitly states: "All components, software, and connectors are supplied in the EVM except for the host computer and the two DC power supplies." The adapter serves as the physical bridge between the PC's USB port and the EVM's 10-pin J1 interface, converting USB commands into the serial protocol (SIN_IN/SCLK_IN) required by the TLC5923/TLC5924 ICs. The TLC5924EVM-186 cannot be operated without it or an equivalent interface.