Texas Instruments TLC5944PWPR
- Part No.:
- TLC5944PWPR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 28-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
TLC5944PWPR.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRVR LINEAR 60MA 28HTSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
TLC5944PWPR 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 up to 60 mA per channel, supports 33-MHz grayscale clocking, and features LED open detection (LOD), thermal error flag (TEF), and pre-thermal warning (PTW). It is used in multiplexed monochrome and full-color LED displays requiring precise brightness uniformity and ghosting suppression.
For engineers reviewing the TLC5944PWPR datasheet, TLC5944PWPR pinout, TLC5944PWPR application, or TLC5944PWPR equivalent, key selection considerations include its HTSSOP-28 PowerPAD™ package, 12-bit grayscale + 6-bit dot correction resolution, VUP up to 15 V, ±1% channel-to-channel current accuracy, and built-in error reporting via XERR open-drain output.
Technical Context
The TLC5944PWPR implements dual serial shift registers-one for 12-bit grayscale (GS) data and one for 6-bit dot correction (DC) data-both controlled via shared SIN/SCLK/XLAT pins with DCSEL selecting register access. Its grayscale PWM engine uses a 33-MHz GSCLK to generate 4096-step intensity control with precise on-time timing (±10 ns propagation delay variation across channels).
Each of the 16 outputs integrates a constant-current sink with programmable maximum current set by IREF–GND resistor (RIREF), plus an independent pre-charge FET tied to VUP to eliminate ghosting in multiplexed LED arrays. Error detection includes continuous LOD (0.2–0.4 V threshold), TEF activation at +162°C junction, and PTW at +120°C-each flagged on XERR and readable via SID protocol.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output Channels | 16 independent constant-current sink outputs (OUT0–OUT15) |
| Grayscale Resolution | 12-bit (4096 steps) PWM control - enables fine-grained intensity gradation without visible stepping |
| Dot Correction | 6-bit (64 steps) per channel - compensates for LED forward-voltage and luminance variance across displays |
| Max Sink Current | 60 mA per channel (typical, RIREF = 820 Ω) - supports high-brightness LEDs with single-supply VUP ≤ 15 V |
| Current Accuracy | ±1% channel-to-channel, ±3% device-to-device - ensures uniform brightness without external calibration |
| Thermal Protection | TEF triggers at +162°C (±13°C), hysteresis +10°C; PTW alerts at +120°C - enables predictive thermal management |
| Data Rate | 30-MHz SCLK - allows full 16×12-bit GS + 16×6-bit DC load in < 12 µs, minimizing display update latency |
Pinout & Package
Package: HTSSOP-28 PowerPAD™ (5.0 mm × 4.4 mm, 0.65 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad soldered to PCB ground plane for enhanced thermal dissipation (3958 mW max at TA = +25°C).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| SIN (Pin 5) | Serial data input | Accepts 12-bit GS or 6-bit DC data depending on DCSEL state; Schmitt-triggered for noise immunity |
| SCLK (Pin 4) | Serial clock input | Rising edge shifts data into selected register (GS or DC); max 30 MHz operation |
| XLAT (Pin 3) | Latch strobe | Low-to-high transition transfers shift-register contents to internal GS/DC latches for immediate use |
| GSCLK (Pin 25) | Grayscale clock input | 33-MHz PWM timing reference; rising edges increment grayscale counter for output on-time control |
| BLANK (Pin 2) | Global output disable | High forces all OUTn off, resets grayscale counter, and initializes PWM controller - essential for flicker-free blanking |
| IREF (Pin 27) | Reference current setting | Connects external resistor to GND to set full-scale sink current (IOLCMax = 40.5 × VIREF / RIREF) |
| XERR (Pin 23) | Error status output | Open-drain flag: low indicates active LOD, TEF, or PTW condition - enables system-level fault logging |
| OUT0–OUT15 (Pins 7–22) | Constant-current sinks | Each drives LED cathode; current programmed by DC value and RIREF; supports parallel connection for higher current |
| VUP (Pin 26) | Pre-charge supply | Powers internal pre-charge FET; must be ≥ VLED to suppress ghosting in multiplexed rows/columns |
| VCC (Pin 28) | Digital supply | 3.0–5.5 V logic supply; powers interface, registers, and control logic - separate from high-voltage VUP domain |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated pre-charge FET | Eliminates ghost-lighting in multiplexed LED systems by actively discharging node capacitance before row activation |
| Continuous LED open detection | Detects open-circuit and short-to-GND LED faults during active display period - no interrupt required |
| Readable status information (SID) | Serial readback of LOD/TEF/PTW flags via SOUT after XLAT, enabling real-time diagnostics without halting display |
| 4-channel grouped output delay | Staggers turn-on of four output groups to limit inrush current and reduce EMI in large LED arrays |
| CMOS-compatible I/O | VIH ≥ 0.7×VCC, VIL ≤ 0.3×VCC - ensures interoperability with 3.3 V and 5 V microcontrollers without level shifters |
Applications
| Monochrome LED Signboards | Full-Color RGB Video Walls |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Outdoor alphanumeric signage using 1/4 or 1/8 multiplexed LED matrices with >10,000-hour lifetime requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink driver providing synchronized grayscale PWM and dot correction per segment to maintain consistent brightness across temperature and aging. Use Value: Pre-charge FET prevents ghosting at high refresh rates (>1 kHz), while LOD ensures field-replaceable module integrity without manual inspection. | Use Scenario: Indoor rental video walls with tight pixel pitch (≤2.5 mm), requiring uniform color point and minimal flicker under camera capture. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Per-pixel current sink for red/green/blue subpixels, leveraging 12-bit GS + 6-bit DC to correct binning variations and thermal drift. Use Value: ±1% channel-to-channel current matching eliminates visible banding; TEF/PTW enable fan-speed modulation before thermal shutdown. |
| Multicolor Information Displays | Industrial Panel Meters |
Use Scenario: Factory floor status boards showing production KPIs using tri-color (R/Y/G) LED indicators with dynamic intensity scaling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Multi-channel sink driving discrete indicator LEDs with independent dot correction per color to normalize perceived luminance. Use Value: 6-bit DC allows factory calibration to CIE 1931 chromaticity targets; BLANK pin enables synchronized global dimming for ambient light adaptation. | Use Scenario: DIN-rail mounted HMI panels operating continuously at 70°C ambient, displaying analog process values via segmented LED bar graphs. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability constant-current driver with thermal monitoring, supporting long-term stability in unventilated enclosures. Use Value: PTW alert at +120°C allows graceful brightness reduction before TEF shutdown; ±3% device-to-device accuracy ensures consistent bar height across units. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC5947RTQT | 24-channel, same 12-bit GS + 6-bit DC, QFN-40 package, 30-MHz SCLK, no pre-charge FET | Lacks ghosting suppression - unsuitable for high-refresh multiplexed signs; better for static or low-duty-cycle displays | Select when channel count >16 is required and VUP-driven pre-charge is unnecessary |
| IS31FL3728-QFLS4-TR | 18-channel, 12-bit GS only (no dot correction), 28-V VDD, I²C interface, integrated thermal foldback | No DC register - requires external calibration or binning; I²C simplifies MCU interface but lacks SID readback | Select for space-constrained designs needing I²C control and higher voltage tolerance, accepting manual brightness tuning |
Compared with TLC5947RTQT and IS31FL3728-QFLS4-TR, the TLC5944PWPR uniquely combines pre-charge FET, SID-readback diagnostics, and HTSSOP-28 thermal performance - making it optimal for ruggedized, high-refresh-rate LED signage where ghosting and field reliability are critical.
Availability
TLC5944PWPR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for monochrome signboards, full-color video walls, multicolor information displays, and industrial panel meters requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and multi-year production cycles.
Supply support for TLC5944PWPR 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in analog, embedded processing, and power management ICs, with leadership in precision analog and high-reliability industrial solutions.
The TLC5944 belongs to TI's LED driver product line, designed specifically for high-fidelity, thermally robust LED display systems requiring per-pixel current control, fault resilience, and multiplexing optimization.
FAQ
What is the maximum LED supply voltage supported by the TLC5944PWPR?
The TLC5944PWPR supports a VUP (pre-charge supply) voltage up to +16 V absolute maximum, with recommended operation up to 15 V. This allows direct drive of high-Vf LED strings (e.g., white or blue LEDs in series) without external boost circuitry. The output voltage range at OUTn is specified as –0.3 V to VUP + 0.3 V, confirming compatibility with common 5 V, 12 V, and 15 V LED bus architectures. Always observe the 15 V limit in normal operation per the recommended conditions table.
How does the TLC5944PWPR implement dot correction, and what is its practical impact on display quality?
The TLC5944PWPR applies 6-bit dot correction (0–63 decimal) multiplicatively to the 12-bit grayscale value per channel: IOUTn = IOLCMax × (DCn / 63). This enables per-output current trimming to compensate for LED forward-voltage spread and luminous intensity variation. In practice, this reduces visible brightness non-uniformity across large LED arrays - critical for outdoor signage where bin-mixed LEDs are cost-prohibitive. Dot correction data are loaded via the same serial interface as grayscale, eliminating need for separate calibration hardware.
Can the TLC5944PWPR be daisy-chained, and how many devices can be cascaded reliably?
Yes, the TLC5944PWPR supports daisy-chaining via SIN → SOUT connection between devices. Each device shifts out its SID data (LOD/TEF flags) and grayscale/dot correction bits on SOUT after XLAT, allowing a single MCU to configure and monitor multiple drivers. TI's typical application circuit shows reliable operation with ≥8 devices in cascade. Signal integrity depends on PCB layout: keep SCLK and GSCLK traces matched and unterminated; limit total daisy-chain length to ≤15 cm at 30 MHz to avoid setup/hold violations. Use DCSEL to isolate GS vs DC register writes during chain loading.
What thermal management provisions does the TLC5944PWPR include beyond thermal shutdown?
Beyond automatic thermal shutdown (TSD) at +162°C junction, the TLC5944PWPR provides two proactive thermal features: a pre-thermal warning (PTW) flag asserted at +120°C (±15°C), and thermal hysteresis (+10°C) on both TEF and PTW. PTW remains active while the die operates above threshold, allowing firmware to reduce brightness or increase cooling before shutdown occurs. The HTSSOP-28 PowerPAD™ package requires soldering the exposed thermal pad to ≥1 in² of 2-oz copper for rated 3958 mW dissipation - omitting this reduces safe operating power by >35%.
Is the TLC5944PWPR compatible with 3.3 V microcontrollers, and what interface voltage levels does it support?
Yes, the TLC5944PWPR is fully compatible with 3.3 V microcontrollers. Its digital I/O pins (SIN, SCLK, XLAT, BLANK, GSCLK, DCSEL) meet CMOS logic thresholds: VIH ≥ 0.7 × VCC (≥2.31 V at VCC = 3.3 V) and VIL ≤ 0.3 × VCC (≤0.99 V). With VCC = 3.3 V, the device draws ICC3 ≈ 17–35 mA during active display - well within typical MCU GPIO drive capability. No level-shifting is needed, and the 30-MHz SCLK supports high-speed updates even with modest MCU SPI peripherals.
TLC5944PWPR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 28-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- 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:
- 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
TLC5944PWPR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLC5944PWPR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLC5944PWPR 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 TLC5944PWPR reliable?
The price and inventory of TLC5944PWPR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLC5944PWPR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLC5944PWPR?
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Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
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TLC5944PWPR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLC5944PWPR 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 TLC5944PWPR?
For technical support, including TLC5944PWPR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLC5944PWPR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLC5944PWPR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLC5944PWPR 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 TLC5944PWPR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLC5944PWPR?
All TLC5944PWPR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLC5944PWPR, 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 TLC5944PWPR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLC5944PWPR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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