Texas Instruments TLC5940PWPG4
- Part No.:
- TLC5940PWPG4
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 28-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
TLC5940PWPG4.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRVR LIN 120MA 28HTSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
TLC5940PWPG4 from Texas Instruments is a 16-channel constant-current LED sink driver with 12-bit (4096-step) grayscale PWM control, 6-bit dot correction (64-step), integrated EEPROM for DC data storage, 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, used in high-precision LED display systems requiring per-channel brightness calibration.
For engineers reviewing the TLC5940PWPG4 datasheet, TLC5940PWPG4 pinout, TLC5940PWPG4 application, or TLC5940PWPG4 equivalent, key selection considerations include its serial 3-wire interface (SIN/SCLK/XLAT), GSCLK/BLANK timing constraints, IREF-based current programming, open-drain XERR error reporting, and HTSSOP-28 package thermal performance.
Technical Context
The TLC5940PWPG4 implements dual-mode serial data loading: grayscale (GS) data (96 bits) and dot correction (DC) data (192 bits), selected via VPRG logic level. Its internal architecture includes a 12-bit grayscale counter synchronized to GSCLK, a 6-bit DC register loaded from EEPROM, and graduated 20-ns output delays (0–300 ns across OUT0–OUT15) to suppress inrush current.
LOD detects open LEDs when OUTn voltage falls below 0.3 V while active; TEF triggers at ~160 °C junction temperature. Both errors drive the open-drain XERR pin low and are latched into a status register readable via SOUT during serial readback - enabling real-time fault diagnostics without interrupt pins.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output channels | 16 constant-current sink outputs (OUT0–OUT15), each individually controllable |
| Grayscale resolution | 12-bit (4096 steps) PWM brightness control per channel, clocked by external GSCLK |
| Dot correction | 6-bit (64 steps) per-channel current trim stored in on-chip EEPROM, enabling LED binning compensation |
| Max sink current | 120 mA per channel at VCC > 3.6 V; set precisely by external IREF resistor (e.g., 640 Ω → ~60 mA) |
| Error detection | LED open detection (LOD) and thermal error flag (TEF), both reported via open-drain XERR pin |
| Serial interface | 3-wire (SIN/SCLK/XLAT), 30 MHz max SCLK, MSB-first, cascading supported via SOUT→SIN daisy-chain |
| Supply range | VCC = 3 V to 5.5 V; LED anode supply up to 17 V independent of VCC |
Pinout & Package
Package: HTSSOP-28 (PWP), body size 9.70 mm × 4.40 mm, exposed thermal pad (PowerPAD™) for enhanced heat dissipation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| OUT0–OUT15 | Constant-current sink outputs | 16 individually programmable current sinks; each drives LED cathode to GND |
| SIN | Serial data input | MSB-first 96-bit (GS) or 192-bit (DC) data stream; sampled on SCLK rising edge |
| SCLK | Serial clock input | Shifts SIN data into internal shift register; max 30 MHz operation |
| XLAT | Latch control input | Level-triggered; rising edge transfers shift register to GS/DC register depending on VPRG state |
| GSCLK | Grayscale PWM clock | Drives 12-bit counter; determines PWM period and brightness resolution timing |
| BLANK | Global output disable | Active-high forces all OUTn OFF and resets grayscale counter; used for flicker-free dimming |
| IREF | Current reference input | Connects external resistor to set full-scale current: IOUT = 31.5 × V(IREF)/R(IREF); V(IREF) ≈ 1.24 V |
| VPRG | Mode select / EEPROM programming | Low = GS mode; High = DC mode; 20–23 V = enable EEPROM write (with DCPRG HIGH) |
| DCPRG | DC register/EEPROM control | High enables DC register ↔ EEPROM transfer when VPRG = V(PRG); controls write enable |
| XERR | Open-drain error output | Drives low on LOD or TEF detection; supports wired-OR of multiple devices with single pull-up |
| SOUT | Serial data output | Reads back GS/DC data or status bits (LOD/TEF flags); supports daisy-chained readout |
| GND / VCC | Power terminals | Separate analog/digital ground not required; VCC powers logic and internal regulators |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Graduated output delay | 20 ns step between consecutive OUTn (0–300 ns total), reducing peak inrush current and easing PCB decoupling |
| Integrated EEPROM | Stores 192-bit dot correction data non-volatilely; eliminates external memory and calibration firmware overhead |
| LED open detection | Detects open-circuit LEDs at each OUTn during active drive (VOUT < 0.3 V), latching fault status for diagnostic readout |
| Thermal error flag | Monitors junction temperature; asserts TEF at ~160 °C and clears automatically on cooldown - no reset required |
| Single-resistor current setting | One external R(IREF) sets identical max current for all 16 channels, ensuring matched brightness scaling |
Applications
| LED Signboard Control | Full-Color Video Display |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Outdoor alphanumeric signboards with high-brightness RGB LEDs requiring uniform luminance across hundreds of modules. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TLC5940PWPG4 acts as per-module 16-channel current sink, receiving serialized grayscale and dot correction data from a central controller via daisy-chained SOUT→SIN. Use Value: 6-bit dot correction compensates for LED forward-voltage variance across bins, enabling ±1% current matching and eliminating visible column banding. |
Use Scenario: Indoor fine-pitch LED video walls where pixel-level brightness consistency and flicker-free dimming are critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TLC5940PWPG4 serves as pixel driver IC, using BLANK-synchronized grayscale updates and GSCLK-driven PWM to achieve 12-bit smooth dimming without visible contouring. Use Value: Graduated 20-ns output delays suppress simultaneous switching noise, allowing smaller bulk capacitors and reducing EMI in dense PCB layouts. |
| Monochrome Panel Backlight | Industrial Status Indicator Array |
Use Scenario: Medical display backlight with 16-zone local dimming, requiring precise current control and fault monitoring per zone. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TLC5940PWPG4 drives each backlight zone's LED string cathodes; XERR reports open-string faults to system MCU for safety shutdown. Use Value: Integrated LOD and TEF eliminate need for discrete sense resistors or thermal sensors, reducing BOM count and board area. |
Use Scenario: Factory HMI panels with multi-color status indicators needing long-term calibration stability and field-replaceable module support. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TLC5940PWPG4 provides calibrated current per indicator LED; EEPROM-stored dot correction survives power cycles and module swaps. Use Value: Non-volatile DC data ensures consistent color balance across replacement modules without re-calibration in production or field service. |
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 pinout, functionally identical, but rated for industrial temp (–40°C to +85°C) and qualified to AEC-Q100 Grade 2; no EEPROM write capability | Automotive interior lighting where EEPROM programming is unnecessary and extended temperature reliability is mandatory | Select TLC5941IPWPR when automotive qualification and guaranteed EEPROM read-only operation are required over field-programmable DC data |
| MAX6966ATL+ | 16-channel, 12-bit PWM, but uses I²C interface (not SPI-like serial), lacks integrated EEPROM, and has lower max current (40 mA/channel) | Space-constrained consumer electronics where I²C bus sharing and lower power are prioritized over per-channel calibration | Choose MAX6966ATL+ when leveraging existing I²C infrastructure and 40 mA/channel suffices; avoid if dot correction or >60 mA/channel is needed |
Compared with TLC5940PWPG4, TLC5941IPWPR offers automotive-grade reliability without EEPROM programming, while MAX6966ATL+ trades serial simplicity and dot correction for I²C integration and reduced current capability - making TLC5940PWPG4 optimal for high-fidelity, field-calibratable LED arrays.
Availability
TLC5940PWPG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED signboards, full-color video displays, and industrial status indicator arrays requiring stable component supply, long-term calibration retention, and robust fault diagnostics.
Supply support for TLC5940PWPG4 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 digital signal technologies, with decades of leadership in precision power and interface solutions.
The TLC5940 product line delivers high-channel-count, high-resolution LED drivers for professional signage and display applications, emphasizing per-channel current accuracy, built-in diagnostics, and simplified system-level calibration.
FAQ
What is the maximum output current per channel for the TLC5940PWPG4?
The TLC5940PWPG4 supports up to 120 mA per channel when VCC exceeds 3.6 V, set 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 typically 1.24 V. This value is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table (Section 6.5) of the SLVS515D datasheet for the TLC5940PWPG4.
How does the TLC5940PWPG4 implement LED open detection (LOD)?
The TLC5940PWPG4 monitors each OUTn voltage during active drive; if VOUT drops below 0.3 V (typical), it registers an open LED condition. This LOD status is latched into the internal status register on the falling edge of XLAT and can be read back via SOUT. The open-drain XERR pin also pulls low immediately upon LOD detection, enabling real-time system-level fault response for the TLC5940PWPG4.
Can the TLC5940PWPG4 be cascaded with other TLC5940PWPG4 devices?
Yes, the TLC5940PWPG4 supports daisy-chain configuration: connect SOUT of one device to SIN of the next, sharing SCLK, XLAT, GSCLK, and BLANK across all units. Data is shifted through the chain - 96 bits per device for grayscale mode - and latched simultaneously with a common XLAT pulse. This allows scalable channel expansion without additional control lines for the TLC5940PWPG4.
What is the role of the VPRG and DCPRG pins on the TLC5940PWPG4?
VPRG selects operating mode: low for grayscale (GS) data loading, high for dot correction (DC) data loading. DCPRG enables transfer between the DC register and EEPROM when VPRG is at programming voltage (20–23 V). Together, they control whether incoming serial data writes to the GS register, DC register, or EEPROM - defining the functional state of the TLC5940PWPG4 during configuration.
Does the TLC5940PWPG4 require external components for basic operation?
Yes - the TLC5940PWPG4 requires at minimum an external resistor on IREF to set output current, a pull-up resistor on XERR (typically 10 kΩ to VCC), and decoupling capacitors on VCC (e.g., 100 nF ceramic + 10 µF tantalum). No external clock or memory is needed: GSCLK and SCLK are provided externally, and EEPROM is integrated. These requirements are specified in the Application Information section of the TLC5940PWPG4 datasheet.
TLC5940PWPG4 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 28-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Discontinued at Digi-Key
- 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:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 28-HTSSOP
TLC5940PWPG4 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLC5940PWPG4 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLC5940PWPG4 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 TLC5940PWPG4 reliable?
The price and inventory of TLC5940PWPG4 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLC5940PWPG4 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLC5940PWPG4?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TLC5940PWPG4 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TLC5940PWPG4?
TLC5940PWPG4 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLC5940PWPG4 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 TLC5940PWPG4?
For technical support, including TLC5940PWPG4 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLC5940PWPG4 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLC5940PWPG4 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLC5940PWPG4 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 TLC5940PWPG4 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLC5940PWPG4?
All TLC5940PWPG4 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLC5940PWPG4, 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 TLC5940PWPG4 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLC5940PWPG4:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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