My Inquiry
My Account
Texas Instruments TLC5940NTG4
- Part No.:
- TLC5940NTG4
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 28-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
TLC5940NTG4.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRIVER LINEAR 120MA 28DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,712
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
TLC5940NTG4 from Texas Instruments is a 16-channel constant-current sink LED driver with 12-bit (4096-step) grayscale PWM control, 6-bit (64-step) dot correction stored in integrated EEPROM, and simultaneous LED open detection (LOD) and thermal error flag (TEF). It supports up to 120 mA per channel at VCC > 3.6 V and operates across 3 V–5.5 V supply, targeting high-precision LED display backlighting and signage.
For engineers reviewing the TLC5940NTG4 datasheet, TLC5940NTG4 pinout, TLC5940NTG4 application, or TLC5940NTG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its serial interface timing (30 MHz SCLK/GSCLK), IREF-based current programming, open-drain XERR error reporting, and HTSSOP-28 package compatibility with thermal pad for industrial LED drive systems.
Technical Context
The TLC5940NTG4 implements dual-mode serial data loading: grayscale (GS) data (96 bits) and dot correction (DC) data (192 bits), selected via VPRG logic level. GS data controls 4096-step PWM brightness per channel; DC data fine-tunes per-channel current to compensate for LED and PCB trace variations.
Its error architecture integrates LOD and TEF into a single open-drain XERR output, with BLANK-controlled LOD masking and status register readback via SOUT. Output delay gradients (20 ns/channel, max 300 ns) suppress inrush current during simultaneous channel turn-on.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Channel count | 16 independent constant-current sink outputs (OUT0–OUT15) |
| Grayscale resolution | 12-bit (4096 steps) PWM control per channel, enabling precise brightness gradation |
| Dot correction | 6-bit (64 steps) per-channel current adjustment, stored in on-chip EEPROM for factory calibration |
| Max output current | 120 mA per channel when VCC > 3.6 V; set by external IREF resistor (e.g., 640 Ω → ~60 mA) |
| Serial interface speed | 30 MHz SCLK and GSCLK support fast data loading for high-refresh-rate displays |
| Error reporting | Open-drain XERR pin signals both LED open (LOD) and thermal overtemperature (TEF) conditions |
| Supply voltage | 3.0 V to 5.5 V operation; LED anode supply up to 17 V independent of VCC |
Pinout & Package
Package: HTSSOP-28 (9.70 mm × 4.40 mm) with exposed thermal pad for enhanced power dissipation in LED driver applications.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| OUT0–OUT15 | Constant-current sink output | 16 individually controlled channels; each sinks up to 120 mA with ±4% current matching |
| SIN / SOUT / SCLK | Serial data interface | 3-wire daisy-chainable interface (MSB-first); SOUT enables cascaded status readback |
| XLAT | Latch control input | Level-triggered; rising edge not required-latches GS or DC data from shift register to active register |
| BLANK | Global output disable | Active-high signal forces all OUTn OFF and resets grayscale counter; used for blanking and error isolation |
| VPRG / DCPRG | Mode and EEPROM control | VPRG selects GS/DC mode; DCPRG enables EEPROM write when VPRG = V(VPRG) (~22 V) |
| XERR | Open-drain error output | Asserts low on LOD or TEF; supports wired-OR of multiple TLC5940NTG4 devices for system-level fault monitoring |
| IREF | Current reference input | External resistor sets full-scale current; V(IREF) = 1.24 V nominal, enabling precise channel current scaling |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Graduated output delay | 20 ns per channel (0–300 ns total), reducing peak inrush current and easing bypass capacitor sizing |
| Integrated EEPROM | Stores 6-bit dot correction data per channel; eliminates external memory and simplifies factory calibration |
| LED open detection | Detects open-circuit LEDs at each OUTn when voltage < 0.3 V; latched into status register on XLAT falling edge |
| Thermal error flag | Triggers at ~160°C junction temperature; reported via XERR and readable in status register for diagnostics |
| CMOS-level I/O | Full 3 V–5.5 V logic compatibility; supports direct interfacing with microcontrollers without level-shifting |
Applications
| Monochrome LED Signage | RGB Full-Color Display Backlight |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Outdoor LED message boards requiring uniform brightness across hundreds of discrete red/green/blue segments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink driver providing per-pixel grayscale PWM and dot correction to compensate for LED binning and aging drift. Use Value: Eliminates visible brightness banding and color shift across large panels using on-chip 6-bit DC calibration and 12-bit GS resolution. |
Use Scenario: High-end LCD TV or monitor backlight with local dimming zones driven by RGB LED strings. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision current sink managing 16 independent backlight zones, synchronized via GSCLK for flicker-free dimming. Use Value: Enables 4096-step grayscale control per zone while maintaining tight current matching (±4%) across temperature for consistent white point. |
| Industrial Status Indicator Panels | Automotive Interior Lighting Control |
|
Use Scenario: Factory HMI panels with multi-color status LEDs where reliability and long-term current stability are critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fault-tolerant LED driver with built-in LOD and TEF reporting via XERR, enabling predictive maintenance alerts. Use Value: Reduces field failures by detecting open LEDs before complete panel failure and preventing thermal runaway via junction temperature monitoring. |
Use Scenario: Ambient lighting modules in automotive cabins requiring ESD-hardened, AEC-Q200-aligned LED control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Current-regulated sink for 16 individually dimmed LED strings, operating from 5 V rail with robust 2 kV HBM ESD rating. Use Value: Meets automotive EMC and reliability requirements via controlled slew rates (10–30 ns), thermal flag, and latch-up immunity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC5941IPWPR | Same 16-channel architecture, but includes internal 1.24 V reference (no IREF resistor needed); no EEPROM - dot correction must be externally managed. | Reduces BOM count in space-constrained designs; unsuitable where factory-programmed DC calibration is required. | Select when simplified layout and lower component count outweigh need for non-volatile dot correction storage. |
| MAX6966ATL+ | 16-channel I²C-compatible driver with 8-bit PWM only; integrated thermal shutdown but no LOD; 100 mA max per channel. | Designed for low-pin-count microcontroller interfaces; lacks grayscale depth and open-circuit diagnostics of TLC5940NTG4. | Choose for cost-sensitive, low-complexity LED arrays where 256-step brightness suffices and diagnostic coverage is secondary. |
Compared with TLC5940NTG4, TLC5941IPWPR removes external IREF dependency but sacrifices EEPROM-based DC calibration, while MAX6966ATL+ trades grayscale resolution and LOD capability for I²C simplicity and lower current drive - making TLC5940NTG4 optimal for high-fidelity, fault-aware LED systems.
Availability
TLC5940NTG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for monochrome signage, RGB display backlighting, and industrial indicator panels requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for TLC5940NTG4 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 high-reliability ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.
The TLC5940NTG4 belongs to TI's precision LED driver product line, engineered for high-current, high-resolution visual systems where per-channel current accuracy, grayscale fidelity, and real-time fault detection are mission-critical.
FAQ
What is the maximum output current per channel for the TLC5940NTG4?
The TLC5940NTG4 delivers up to 120 mA per channel when VCC exceeds 3.6 V, set precisely by the external IREF resistor. At VCC < 3.6 V, the limit is 60 mA. The actual current is calculated as IOUT = 31.5 × V(IREF)/R(IREF), where V(IREF) is nominally 1.24 V. This allows flexible, board-level current tuning without changing the TLC5940NTG4 itself.
How does the TLC5940NTG4 handle LED open-circuit detection?
The TLC5940NTG4 performs LED open detection (LOD) by monitoring each OUTn voltage during active drive: if voltage drops below 0.3 V (typical) while the channel is enabled, LOD triggers. The fault is reported on the open-drain XERR pin and latched into the status register upon the falling edge of XLAT, enabling software-read diagnostics via SOUT. This ensures early detection of failed LEDs before system-level failure.
Can multiple TLC5940NTG4 devices be cascaded, and how is data synchronized?
Yes - TLC5940NTG4 supports daisy-chaining via SIN→SOUT connections. Data is shifted in MSB-first at up to 30 MHz; one XLAT pulse latches all loaded data across the chain. GSCLK synchronizes grayscale timing globally, while BLANK provides frame-level blanking. Cascading preserves per-device LOD/TEF reporting through individual XERR pins or shared wired-OR configuration.
What is the role of the VPRG and DCPRG pins on the TLC5940NTG4?
VPRG selects operational mode: grounded for grayscale (GS) data loading, VCC for dot correction (DC) data loading, or ~22 V for EEPROM programming. DCPRG enables writing to the internal EEPROM when VPRG is at programming voltage. Together, they provide secure, pin-controlled access to both runtime control (GS/DC registers) and non-volatile calibration storage (EEPROM), eliminating need for external configuration memory.
Does the TLC5940NTG4 require external components for thermal protection?
No - the TLC5940NTG4 integrates a thermal error flag (TEF) that activates at ~160°C junction temperature, pulling XERR low and allowing immediate system response. While no external thermal sensor is needed, proper PCB layout - including use of the HTSSOP-28 thermal pad and recommended copper pour - is essential to maintain safe junction temperatures under full 120 mA/channel load. Thermal metrics (RθJA = 36.7°C/W) are specified for standard mounting.
TLC5940NTG4 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 28-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- Shift Register
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 16
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 3V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output:
- 17V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 120mA
- Frequency:
- 30MHz
- Dimming:
- -
- Applications:
- Backlight
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 28-PDIP
TLC5940NTG4 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLC5940NTG4 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLC5940NTG4 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for TLC5940NTG4 reliable?
The price and inventory of TLC5940NTG4 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLC5940NTG4 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLC5940NTG4?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TLC5940NTG4 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TLC5940NTG4?
TLC5940NTG4 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLC5940NTG4 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for TLC5940NTG4?
For technical support, including TLC5940NTG4 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLC5940NTG4 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLC5940NTG4 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLC5940NTG4 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that TLC5940NTG4 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLC5940NTG4?
All TLC5940NTG4 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLC5940NTG4, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The TLC5940NTG4 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLC5940NTG4:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TLC5940NTG4 Tags
-
BCR402RE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies
-
BCR430UXTSA2
Infineon Technologies
-
BCR420UE6433HTMA1
Infineon Technologies
-
BCR420UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies
-
BCR421UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies
-
LYT1604D-TL
Power Integrations
-
HV9910CLG-G
Microchip Technology
-
CL2N8-G
Microchip Technology
-
BCR420UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated
-
BCR421UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated
-
BCR420UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated
-
BCR421UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…
