Texas Instruments TLC5941RHBT
- Part No.:
- TLC5941RHBT
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
TLC5941RHBT.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRIVER LINEAR 80MA 32VQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,640
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Product details
Overview
TLC5941RHBT from Texas Instruments is a 16-channel constant-current LED driver IC with integrated 12-bit grayscale PWM control (4096 steps), 6-bit dot correction (64 steps), LED open detection (LOD), thermal error flag (TEF), and serial interface supporting up to 30 MHz data transfer. It operates from 3.0 V to 5.5 V supply and drives LEDs with sink current up to 80 mA per channel, used in high-precision full-color LED signage and display back-lighting systems.
For engineers reviewing the TLC5941RHBT datasheet, TLC5941RHBT pinout, TLC5941RHBT application, or TLC5941RHBT equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, package-specific pin mapping for the 32-pin QFN (RHB), real-world application cards, and two validated alternative parts - all grounded in TI's SLVS589D datasheet and official ordering documentation.
Technical Context
The TLC5941RHBT implements dual-mode serial programming via MODE pin: GS mode (192-bit grayscale register load) and DC mode (96-bit dot correction register load). Its internal grayscale counter synchronizes to GSCLK, while XLAT latches shift-register data into either GS or DC registers based on MODE state. BLANK forces all outputs OFF and resets the GS counter.
Each of the 16 constant-current sink outputs features independent 12-bit PWM brightness control and 6-bit per-channel dot correction. Output delay is graduated (0–300 ns across OUT0–OUT15) to suppress inrush current. Error reporting uses open-drain XERR, which asserts low on LOD (VOUT < 0.4 V) or TEF (TJ > 160 °C).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Channels | 16 constant-current sink outputs (OUT0–OUT15), each programmable independently |
| Grayscale Resolution | 12-bit (4096 steps) PWM control per channel - enables smooth brightness gradation in video-grade LED displays |
| Dot Correction | 6-bit (64 steps) per channel - corrects LED-to-LED and channel-to-channel luminance variation without external calibration hardware |
| Max Sink Current | 80 mA per channel at VOUT ≤ 1 V - set by single external IREF resistor (e.g., 640 Ω yields ~64 mA) |
| Supply Voltage | 3.0 V to 5.5 V - compatible with standard logic-level microcontrollers and industrial 3.3 V/5 V systems |
| Data Rate | 30 MHz SCLK - supports fast refresh rates for high-frame-rate LED panels (e.g., ≥120 Hz @ 16×12-bit) |
| Error Detection | Integrated LOD (open-LED detection) and TEF (thermal error flag), reported via open-drain XERR pin |
Pinout & Package
Package: 32-pin QFN (5 mm × 5 mm), exposed thermal pad (PowerPAD™), RoHS-compliant, rated for –40 °C to +85 °C ambient operation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| GND | Ground reference | Primary return path for all currents; must be low-impedance connection to PCB ground plane |
| VCC | Power supply input | 3.0–5.5 V digital and analog supply; bypass with ≥1 µF ceramic capacitor near pin |
| IREF | Reference current setting | Connect external resistor to GND to set max output current (IOUT = 31.5 × VIREF/RIREF) |
| OUT0–OUT15 | Constant-current sink outputs | 16 individually controlled LED cathode drivers; each supports up to 17 V LED forward voltage |
| SIN | Serial data input | MSB-first 96-bit (DC mode) or 192-bit (GS mode) data stream; CMOS-compatible input |
| SCLK | Serial clock input | Edge-triggered clock up to 30 MHz; rising edge shifts data from SIN into internal shift register |
| XLAT | Latch control | Level-triggered signal; high pulse transfers shift-register data to GS or DC register depending on MODE |
| MODE | Operating mode select | GND = GS mode (192-bit grayscale load); VCC = DC mode (96-bit dot correction load) |
| BLANK | Global output enable | High = all outputs OFF + GS counter reset; low = normal PWM operation |
| GSCLK | Grayscale clock input | Drives internal 12-bit counter; frequency determines PWM period (e.g., 11 MHz → ~1 kHz refresh) |
| SOUT | Serial data output | Shifts out status bits (LOD/TEF flags) or cascades data to next TLC5941 in daisy-chain configuration |
| XERR | Error flag output | Open-drain output pulled low on LOD or TEF detection; supports wired-OR of multiple devices |
| TEST | Internal test function | Must be tied to VCC for proper dot correction circuit operation; no user-accessible function otherwise |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Graduated output delay (0–300 ns) | Reduces peak inrush current during simultaneous channel turn-on, minimizing required bulk capacitance and EMI |
| Single-resistor current setting | One external RIREF sets identical max current across all 16 channels - simplifies BOM and eliminates per-channel trimming |
| Integrated LOD and TEF reporting | Enables system-level fault monitoring without external comparators or thermal sensors - reduces component count and board area |
| Dual-mode serial interface | Separate 96-bit DC and 192-bit GS load cycles allow independent calibration and brightness programming - avoids timing conflicts in real-time updates |
| QFN PowerPAD™ thermal design | 35.9 °C/W junction-to-board thermal impedance (with 2-oz copper) - supports sustained 80 mA/channel operation at 85 °C ambient |
Applications
| LED Signage | Full-Color Video Walls |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Outdoor monochrome and RGB LED message boards requiring uniform brightness across thousands of pixels under variable temperature and drive conditions. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink driver with per-pixel dot correction and 12-bit grayscale PWM - ensures consistent luminance and color fidelity across large-area displays. Use Value: Eliminates manual LED binning and external current-setting resistors; 6-bit dot correction compensates for LED aging and batch variance over 100,000+ hours. |
Use Scenario: Indoor high-resolution video walls using surface-mount RGB LEDs where pixel-level brightness matching is critical for image integrity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: 16-channel grayscale controller with synchronized GSCLK and graduated output delays - enables flicker-free, high-refresh-rate rendering without visible scanning artifacts. Use Value: 30 MHz serial interface allows sub-millisecond frame updates; 12-bit PWM resolves fine luminance gradients essential for HDR content reproduction. |
| Industrial Display Backlighting | Test & Measurement Equipment Indicators |
|
Use Scenario: Edge-lit LCD panels in medical monitors and factory HMIs requiring stable, dimmable white backlight with minimal thermal drift. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current LED driver with thermal error flag and LED open detection - provides fail-safe operation and predictive maintenance alerts. Use Value: TEF detection prevents thermal runaway in enclosed enclosures; LOD identifies failed LEDs before complete backlight failure occurs. |
Use Scenario: Precision instrument front panels with multi-segment LED indicators where visual consistency and long-term reliability are mandatory. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise, low-drift current sink with 6-bit per-channel correction - maintains calibrated indicator intensity across operating life and temperature range. Use Value: Dot correction preserves factory-set intensity ratios between red/green/yellow segments; 80 mA drive supports high-brightness indicator LEDs even at 85 °C ambient. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC5947RGER | 24-channel, same 12-bit GS/6-bit DC architecture, but uses SPI interface (not shift-register) and lacks XERR/LOD reporting | Better suited for microcontroller-based systems with native SPI peripherals; not drop-in compatible due to different pinout and protocol | Select when expanding channel count beyond 16 and SPI integration simplifies firmware vs. bit-banged shift logic |
| IS31FL3731-QFLS4-TR | 18×16 matrix driver with auto-breathing, I²C interface, and built-in memory - no external GSCLK required | Targets compact UI lighting (keypads, wearables); lacks per-output voltage tolerance (>17 V) and LOD/TEF diagnostics | Choose for space-constrained designs needing embedded animation control and reduced MCU overhead, not high-voltage signage |
Compared with TLC5941RHBT, TLC5947RGER offers higher channel density but removes critical fault-reporting features, while IS31FL3731-QFLS4-TR trades diagnostic capability and high-VOUT support for integrated memory and simpler I²C control - making TLC5941RHBT uniquely suited for robust, field-deployed LED signage requiring both precision and reliability.
Availability
TLC5941RHBT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED signage, full-color video walls, and industrial display back-lighting requiring stable component supply, long-life thermal performance, and production-ready fault diagnostics.
Supply support for TLC5941RHBT 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 high-reliability industrial and automotive-grade ICs.
The TLC5941RHBT belongs to TI's LED driver product line, engineered specifically for high-accuracy, high-channel-count LED display systems demanding precise current regulation, grayscale fidelity, and built-in system health monitoring.
FAQ
What is the maximum output current per channel for the TLC5941RHBT?
The TLC5941RHBT supports up to 80 mA per channel (OUT0–OUT15) when configured with an appropriate IREF resistor (e.g., 640 Ω yields ~64 mA). This value is derived from the internal 1.24 V reference and scaling factor of 31.5. Operation below 5 mA is unstable; lower effective currents are achieved via dot correction, not reduced IREF.
How does the TLC5941RHBT implement LED open detection (LOD)?
The TLC5941RHBT detects an open LED when an output is active (driving current) and its voltage falls below 0.4 V (typical threshold) - indicating no current path. This condition triggers the XERR pin low and latches the fault bit in the status register upon the next XLAT low-to-high transition. The LOD feature requires TEST pin tied to VCC for activation.
Can the TLC5941RHBT be used in daisy-chain configurations?
Yes, the TLC5941RHBT supports serial daisy-chaining via its SOUT and SIN pins. Data shifted into the first device's SIN appears at its SOUT after 96 or 192 bits (depending on MODE), allowing cascaded programming of multiple TLC5941RHBT units with a single microcontroller interface - reducing GPIO count and simplifying layout for large LED arrays.
What is the purpose of the MODE pin on the TLC5941RHBT?
The MODE pin selects between two distinct programming modes: grounded (GND) configures the TLC5941RHBT for 192-bit grayscale (GS) register loading, while pulled to VCC enables 96-bit dot correction (DC) register loading. This dual-mode architecture separates brightness calibration from operational brightness control - preventing unintended changes during live display updates.
Does the TLC5941RHBT require external components for thermal protection?
No - the TLC5941RHBT integrates a thermal error flag (TEF) that activates when junction temperature exceeds ~160 °C, pulling XERR low. This self-contained protection eliminates need for external thermal sensors or shutdown circuitry. However, proper PCB thermal design (e.g., soldered PowerPAD™ to 2-oz copper) remains essential to maintain safe operation at rated 80 mA/channel loads.
TLC5941RHBT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- 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:
- 80mA
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- -
- Applications:
- Backlight, Signage
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-VQFN (5x5)
TLC5941RHBT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLC5941RHBT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLC5941RHBT 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 TLC5941RHBT reliable?
The price and inventory of TLC5941RHBT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLC5941RHBT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLC5941RHBT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TLC5941RHBT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TLC5941RHBT?
TLC5941RHBT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLC5941RHBT 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 TLC5941RHBT?
For technical support, including TLC5941RHBT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLC5941RHBT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLC5941RHBT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLC5941RHBT 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 TLC5941RHBT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLC5941RHBT?
All TLC5941RHBT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLC5941RHBT, 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 TLC5941RHBT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLC5941RHBT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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