Texas Instruments TLC5944PWP
- Part No.:
- TLC5944PWP
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 28-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
TLC5944PWP.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRVR LINEAR 60MA 28HTSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
TLC5944PWP from Texas Instruments is a 16-channel, 12-bit PWM constant-current LED sink driver with integrated 6-bit dot correction and pre-charge FET. It delivers ±1% channel-to-channel current accuracy, supports up to 60 mA per channel, and operates with VCC = 3.0–5.5 V and VUP = 3.0–15 V. It is designed for high-reliability multiplexed LED displays requiring ghosting suppression and real-time LED open/thermal error detection.
For engineers reviewing the TLC5944PWP datasheet, TLC5944PWP pinout, TLC5944PWP application, or TLC5944PWP equivalent, key selection criteria include its 4096-step grayscale resolution, daisy-chainable serial interface (30 MHz SCLK), built-in LOD/TEF/PTW flags, and HTSSOP-28 PowerPAD™ package with thermal management capability.
Technical Context
The TLC5944PWP implements dual-shift-register architecture: one 12-bit grayscale (GS) register and one 6-bit dot correction (DC) register, both loaded via SIN/SCLK under DCSEL control. Grayscale timing is driven by an independent 33-MHz GSCLK, enabling precise PWM on-time control with <±10 ns output on-time error at full speed.
Its constant-current sink outputs (OUT0–OUT15) are individually calibrated via external IREF resistor and dot correction data, while the internal pre-charge FET (VUP-referenced, 1–3 kΩ typical RPCHG) actively suppresses ghosting in multiplexed LED systems. Error detection includes continuous LED open detection (LOD threshold: 0.2–0.4 V), thermal error flag (TEF trip at +150°C to +175°C), and pre-thermal warning (PTW at +105°C to +135°C).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Channels | 16 independent constant-current sink outputs (OUT0–OUT15), each adjustable via dot correction |
| Grayscale Resolution | 12-bit (4096 steps) PWM control - enables smooth brightness gradation without visible stepping |
| Dot Correction | 6-bit (64 steps) per channel - compensates for LED forward-voltage and luminance variation across arrays |
| Max Sink Current | 60 mA per channel (typical, with RIREF = 820 Ω) - supports high-brightness LEDs with VUP up to 15 V |
| Current Accuracy | ±1% channel-to-channel, ±3% device-to-device - ensures uniform LED intensity without manual trimming |
| Error Detection | Integrated LOD (LED open/short-to-GND), TEF (thermal shutdown), and PTW (high-temp alert) - enables autonomous system fault response |
| Timing Performance | 30 MHz SCLK, 33 MHz GSCLK, 10 ns min pulse widths - supports fast refresh rates in large-area displays |
Pinout & Package
Package: HTSSOP-28 PowerPAD™ (5.0 mm × 4.4 mm, 0.65 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad soldered to PCB copper for enhanced thermal dissipation (31.67 mW/°C junction-to-board rating).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| SIN (Pin 5) | Serial data input | Accepts grayscale or dot correction data depending on DCSEL state; synchronized to SCLK rising edge |
| SCLK (Pin 4) | Serial clock input | Drives shift register clocking; Schmitt-triggered for noise immunity; max 30 MHz operation |
| DCSEL (Pin 6) | Data register select | Low = grayscale register active; High = dot correction register active; must be stable during SCLK high |
| XLAT (Pin 3) | Latch strobe | Transfers data from shift register to latch on rising edge; required before GSCLK starts PWM cycle |
| BLANK (Pin 2) | Global output disable | High = all outputs forced OFF, grayscale counter reset; low = normal PWM operation enabled |
| GSCLK (Pin 25) | Grayscale PWM clock | Rising edge increments grayscale counter; 33 MHz max frequency defines minimum PWM period (30.3 ns) |
| IREF (Pin 27) | Reference current setting | Connects external resistor to GND to set maximum sink current (IOLCMax = 40.5 × VIREF/RIREF) |
| SOUT (Pin 24) | Serial data output | MSB of selected shift register or status information data (SID) - enables daisy-chaining and error readback |
| XERR (Pin 23) | Error flag output | Open-drain; pulls low on LOD or TEF assertion; high-impedance when no error - simplifies fault monitoring |
| VUP (Pin 26) | Pre-charge FET supply | Provides power for internal pre-charge circuitry; supports up to 15 V - critical for ghosting suppression in high-VF LED strings |
| VCC (Pin 28) | Digital supply | 3.0–5.5 V logic supply; powers control logic, shift registers, and interface circuitry |
| GND (Pin 1) | Power ground | Common reference for VCC, VUP, and output current return path - requires low-impedance PCB connection |
| OUT0–OUT15 (Pins 7–22) | Constant-current sink outputs | Each drives one LED cathode; current magnitude set by IREF resistor and dot correction value; supports parallel connection for higher current |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated pre-charge FET | Eliminates ghosting in multiplexed LED systems by actively discharging LED node capacitance before turn-on |
| Continuous LED open detection (LOD) | Detects open-circuit or short-to-GND LED faults during active display - triggers XERR and auto-output-off function |
| Thermal protection with hysteresis | TEF trips at +150°C to +175°C (Junction); automatic restart after cooling ≥5°C below trip point |
| Daisy-chainable serial interface | Single SIN/SCLK pair controls multiple TLC5944PWP devices; SOUT feeds SIN of next device - reduces MCU GPIO count |
| Noise-reduced output switching | 4-channel grouped delay prevents simultaneous current surges - lowers EMI and supply rail disturbance |
Applications
| LED Signboards | Multiplexed Full-Color Displays |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Outdoor alphanumeric LED signboards using 1/8 or 1/16 scan-rate multiplexing with high ambient brightness requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink driver managing 16 LED segments per IC; provides grayscale PWM timing and dot correction for color uniformity across modules. Use Value: Pre-charge FET eliminates ghosting artifacts at high scan rates; LOD detection enables remote fault reporting without visual inspection. |
Use Scenario: Indoor full-color video walls built from RGB LED modules with tight luminance matching across thousands of pixels. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Per-module grayscale and dot correction controller; synchronizes GSCLK across daisy-chained ICs for frame-coherent PWM. Use Value: 6-bit dot correction compensates for binning variations between red/green/blue LEDs; ±1% channel matching ensures consistent white-point stability. |
| Industrial Panel Indicators | Automotive Interior Lighting |
|
Use Scenario: Harsh-environment HMI panels requiring long-life, high-reliability LED indicators with diagnostic capability. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fault-tolerant LED driver with continuous LOD/TEF monitoring; interfaces to industrial PLC or microcontroller over SPI-like serial bus. Use Value: XERR flag enables predictive maintenance; thermal hysteresis prevents nuisance shutdowns during transient overloads. |
Use Scenario: Ambient lighting systems in automotive cabins where EMI, temperature extremes, and reliability are critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current driver for multi-zone LED strips; uses VUP up to 15 V to drive longer LED strings without external boost. Use Value: 3.0–5.5 V VCC compatibility with automotive 5 V supplies; –40°C to +85°C operating range meets AEC-Q100 Grade 3 requirements. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC5947PWR | 24-channel, same 12-bit GS + 6-bit DC architecture; QFN-32 package; higher channel density but no pre-charge FET | Lacks integrated pre-charge FET - requires external circuitry to suppress ghosting in multiplexed systems | Select when board space is constrained and ghosting is mitigated externally; not drop-in for TLC5944PWP's VUP-driven pre-charge functionality |
| IS31FL3731-QFLS4-TR | 18×12 matrix driver with auto-breathing, I²C interface; no daisy-chain support; integrated oscillator | Fixed matrix topology vs. flexible 16-channel sink; no VUP pin or pre-charge capability; lower max current (40 mA) | Choose for simpler I²C-based designs with static layouts; unsuitable for high-VF, multiplexed, or daisy-chain architectures requiring VUP control |
Compared with TLC5947PWR and IS31FL3731-QFLS4-TR, the TLC5944PWP uniquely combines daisy-chain serial control, VUP-referenced pre-charge FET, and robust thermal/LOD diagnostics - making it optimal for scalable, high-reliability multiplexed LED signage and industrial HMIs.
Availability
TLC5944PWP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED signboards, multiplexed full-color displays, and industrial panel indicators requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for TLC5944PWP 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 expertise in precision LED control and industrial-grade IC design.
The TLC5944PWP belongs to TI's high-accuracy LED driver product line, engineered specifically for demanding multiplexed LED display systems where uniform brightness, fault resilience, and thermal robustness are essential.
FAQ
What is the maximum LED supply voltage supported by the TLC5944PWP?
The TLC5944PWP supports LED supply voltages up to 15 V on the VUP pin, which powers its internal pre-charge FET and enables driving longer LED strings without external boost circuitry. This allows direct interfacing with common 5 V, 12 V, or 24 V LED power rails when used with appropriate current-limiting design. The TLC5944PWP itself does not regulate VUP - it must be supplied with a clean, stable voltage within absolute maximum ratings.
How does the TLC5944PWP handle LED open-circuit faults during operation?
The TLC5944PWP performs continuous LED open detection (LOD) during active display periods. When an open or short-to-GND condition is detected on any OUT0–OUT15 channel, the XERR pin asserts low and the affected output is automatically disabled. The LOD result is latched and readable via the Status Information Data (SID) register on the next SCLK cycle after XLAT, enabling real-time diagnostics without interrupting display operation.
Can multiple TLC5944PWP ICs be daisy-chained, and what interface signals are required?
Yes, the TLC5944PWP supports seamless daisy-chaining using only three signals: SIN (data in), SCLK (clock), and XLAT (latch). The SOUT pin of each IC connects to the SIN of the next, allowing grayscale and dot correction data to propagate through the chain. GSCLK and BLANK are shared globally across all devices, enabling synchronized PWM timing and blanking - reducing MCU pin count and simplifying layout for large LED arrays.
What is the role of the IREF pin on the TLC5944PWP, and how is current set?
The IREF pin on the TLC5944PWP sets the maximum sink current (IOLCMax) for all 16 channels via an external resistor to GND. Using the formula IOLCMax = 40.5 × VIREF/RIREF (where VIREF ≈ 1.20 V), a typical 820 Ω resistor yields ~60 mA per channel. Each channel's actual current is then scaled down individually using 6-bit dot correction data - providing both global current tuning and per-LED fine adjustment.
Does the TLC5944PWP require external components for thermal protection?
No, the TLC5944PWP includes fully integrated thermal protection: a thermal error flag (TEF) triggers at junction temperatures between +150°C and +175°C, forcing all outputs OFF; hysteresis of +5°C to +20°C ensures stable restart after cooling. A separate pre-thermal warning (PTW) flag activates at +105°C to +135°C, allowing system-level thermal management before shutdown. No external sensors or circuitry are needed - only proper PCB thermal design (e.g., PowerPAD soldering) is required for reliable operation.
TLC5944PWP Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 28-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- 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:
- 3V ~ 15V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 60mA
- Frequency:
- 30MHz
- Dimming:
- -
- Applications:
- Signage
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 28-HTSSOP
TLC5944PWP FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLC5944PWP through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLC5944PWP 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 TLC5944PWP reliable?
The price and inventory of TLC5944PWP are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLC5944PWP is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLC5944PWP?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TLC5944PWP transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TLC5944PWP?
TLC5944PWP orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLC5944PWP 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 TLC5944PWP?
For technical support, including TLC5944PWP datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLC5944PWP requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLC5944PWP is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLC5944PWP 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 TLC5944PWP meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLC5944PWP?
All TLC5944PWP units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLC5944PWP, 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 TLC5944PWP part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLC5944PWP:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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