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Texas Instruments TLC5946RHBR
- Part No.:
- TLC5946RHBR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 32-VFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
TLC5946RHBR.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRIVER LINEAR 40MA 32VQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,184
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Product details
Overview
TLC5946RHBR from Texas Instruments is a 16-channel, 12-bit PWM LED driver with integrated 6-bit dot correction and constant-current sink outputs. It delivers 40 mA per channel, supports 33 MHz grayscale PWM clocking, operates from 3.0 V to 5.5 V supply, and features open-LED detection and thermal error flagging - enabling precise brightness control in high-density LED signage and display backlighting.
For engineers reviewing the TLC5946RHBR datasheet, TLC5946RHBR pinout, TLC5946RHBR application, or TLC5946RHBR equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated package mapping (QFN-32), confirmed pin functions, real-world application constraints, and two rigorously cross-checked alternative parts for LED current control systems requiring grayscale fidelity and channel-to-channel current matching within ±1%.
Technical Context
The TLC5946RHBR implements dual-mode serial control: MODE = HIGH enables 96-bit dot correction data loading for per-channel current trimming across 64 steps; MODE = LOW enables 192-bit grayscale data loading for 4096-step PWM timing control. Its internal 12-bit grayscale counter resets on BLANK high and increments on each GSCLK rising edge, directly determining output on-time duration.
Each of the 16 constant-current sinks is calibrated via a single external IREF resistor, with output current set to IOUT = 42.5 × (VIREF/RIREF) where VIREF = 1.20 V (typ). Error detection includes continuous LED open detection (LOD) triggered at ≤0.3 V across OUTn and thermal error flag (TEF) activation at +150°C junction temperature.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Channels | 16 independent constant-current sink outputs - enables direct drive of 16 discrete LEDs or LED segments without external current-setting resistors. |
| Grayscale resolution | 12-bit (4096 steps) PWM - supports smooth intensity gradation essential for full-color LED displays and flicker-free backlight dimming. |
| Dot correction | 6-bit (64 steps) per channel - compensates for LED forward-voltage and luminance variance to achieve uniform brightness across arrays. |
| Max output current | 40 mA per channel (dc) - sufficient for high-brightness indicator LEDs and mid-power display segments up to 17 V LED supply voltage. |
| Supply voltage | VCC = 3.0 V to 5.5 V - compatible with standard logic-level microcontrollers and industrial 3.3 V/5 V power rails. |
| Current accuracy | ±1% (channel-to-channel), ±2% (device-to-device) - ensures consistent LED intensity without per-channel calibration in production. |
| Data rate | 30 MHz SCLK - allows full 192-bit grayscale update in <6.4 µs, supporting high-refresh-rate displays with minimal bus overhead. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 5 mm × 5 mm QFN-32 with exposed thermal pad (PowerPAD™). Pin count: 32 terminals, including 16 output channels, 2 serial interface clocks (SCLK, GSCLK), latch (XLAT), blank (BLANK), mode select (MODE), error output (XERR), reference input (IREF), and dedicated ground/power pins.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| OUT0–OUT15 | Constant-current sink output | 16 individually controllable current sources; each sinks up to 40 mA when enabled - connects directly to LED cathodes. |
| SIN | Serial data input | MSB-first data entry point for both dot correction (96-bit) and grayscale (192-bit) registers - requires synchronous SCLK. |
| SCLK | Serial shift clock | Rising-edge-triggered clock for shifting data into internal shift registers - supports up to 30 MHz for fast configuration. |
| XLAT | Latch control | Rising-edge triggers transfer of serial data from shift register to active dot correction or grayscale latch - immediate effect on output current. |
| GSCLK | Grayscale PWM clock | Rising-edge-driven 12-bit counter clock - sets PWM period; 33 MHz max frequency enables sub-30 ns resolution per step. |
| BLANK | Global output disable | Active-high signal forces all OUTn off and resets grayscale counter - used for blanking intervals and flicker elimination. |
| MODE | Function mode select | HIGH = dot correction data load; LOW = grayscale data load - determines which 96-bit or 192-bit register receives SIN data. |
| IREF | Reference current setting | Analog input tied to external resistor to GND; sets full-scale current (IOUT = 42.5 × VIREF/RIREF, VIREF = 1.20 V). |
| XERR | Error open-drain output | Active-low flag indicating either LED open condition (LOD) or overtemperature (TEF); requires external pull-up for system monitoring. |
| VCC / GND | Power supply | 3.0–5.5 V digital core and analog reference supply; thermal pad must be soldered for rated 3482 mW dissipation at +25°C. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated dot correction | 6-bit per channel trimming (0–100% of max current) - eliminates manual binning and enables factory-set luminance uniformity across LED arrays. |
| Dual-mode serial interface | Single SIN/SCLK pair handles both grayscale and dot correction via MODE pin - reduces PCB routing complexity and MCU GPIO usage. |
| Real-time error detection | Continuous LOD (≤0.3 V threshold) and TEF (+150°C trip) with dedicated XERR output - enables fail-safe display operation and predictive maintenance. |
| Four-grouped output delay | Outputs divided into four groups (OUT0–3, OUT4–7, etc.) with staggered PWM edges - reduces peak current demand and EMI during simultaneous switching. |
| Extended serial interface | XHALF pin enables daisy-chaining multiple TLC5946RHBR devices with shared SCLK/GSCLK/XLAT - simplifies expansion to >16 channels without additional controllers. |
Applications
| Monochrome LED Signage | Full-Color RGB Display Modules |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Outdoor alphanumeric message boards using high-brightness red/green/yellow LEDs arranged in matrix format. IC Role / Device Role: Constant-current sink driver delivering synchronized 12-bit grayscale and per-LED dot correction to correct aging and batch variation. Use Value: Enables uniform brightness across 10,000+ LEDs under wide temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) without per-LED calibration. |
Use Scenario: Indoor rental LED video walls with 10-mm pitch RGB SMD modules requiring flicker-free 120 Hz refresh. IC Role / Device Role: Primary grayscale controller managing 16 RGB subpixels per module; uses GSCLK-synchronized PWM for color fidelity. Use Value: 4096-step grayscale resolution and 33 MHz GSCLK support ensure smooth motion rendering and absence of contouring artifacts. |
| Automotive Interior Lighting | Industrial HMI Backlighting |
|
Use Scenario: Dynamic ambient lighting strips in vehicle cabins with programmable color zones and dimming profiles. IC Role / Device Role: Current-regulated driver for multi-color LED strings; leverages BLANK for synchronized fade transitions and error reporting via XERR. Use Value: ±1% channel-to-channel current matching ensures consistent hue across zones; thermal flag prevents overheating in enclosed fixtures. |
Use Scenario: Operator panel backlights in factory HMIs where reliability and long-term luminance stability are critical. IC Role / Device Role: Precision backlight driver for segmented LCDs; uses dot correction to compensate for LED aging over 50,000-hour lifetime. Use Value: 6-bit dot correction retains uniform brightness across entire panel after 5 years of continuous operation without recalibration. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED current control applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC5947RHB | 24-channel version with identical 12-bit PWM, 6-bit dot correction, and QFN-32 package - adds 8 extra outputs but shares same timing and interface protocol. | Required when >16 LED channels per IC are needed without increasing board area or controller complexity. | Select TLC5947RHB only if channel count expansion is primary requirement; pinout differs - not drop-in compatible. |
| MAX6966AUG+ | 16-channel LED driver with 8-bit PWM (256 steps), no dot correction, I²C interface, and 20 mA max per channel - lacks grayscale depth and per-channel trimming. | Suitable for low-cost indicator panels where fine brightness control and LED matching are non-critical. | Choose MAX6966AUG+ only for cost-sensitive, low-resolution applications; incompatible serial protocol and lower current capability limit direct substitution. |
Compared with TLC5946RHBR, TLC5947RHB offers higher channel density in the same footprint but requires PCB layout revision, while MAX6966AUG+ trades grayscale fidelity and current accuracy for simpler I²C integration and lower BOM cost - neither is pin-compatible, and both demand firmware and layout adaptation.
Availability
TLC5946RHBR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for monochrome signage, full-color display modules, automotive interior lighting, and industrial HMI backlighting requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle availability, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for TLC5946RHBR 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 and embedded processing technologies, with decades of expertise in precision power management and LED control ICs.
The TLC5946RHBR belongs to TI's high-accuracy LED driver product line, designed specifically for applications demanding uniform brightness, long-term stability, and robust fault detection in commercial and industrial LED displays.
FAQ
What is the maximum LED supply voltage supported by the TLC5946RHBR?
The TLC5946RHBR supports LED anode supply voltages up to +17 V at its OUT0–OUT15 pins. This allows direct connection to common 12 V or 15 V LED string supplies without external level-shifting circuitry. The device itself operates from a separate 3.0 V to 5.5 V VCC rail, isolating logic and analog domains. Absolute maximum rating is +18 V - exceeding this risks permanent damage.
How does the IREF pin set output current in the TLC5946RHBR?
The IREF pin accepts a single external resistor between IREF and GND to set full-scale current: IOUT(max) = 42.5 × (1.20 V / RIREF). For example, a 1.3 kΩ resistor yields ~39 mA per channel. RIREF must be between 1.275 kΩ and 12.75 kΩ to maintain stable 4–40 mA operation. The internal 1.20 V bandgap reference ensures accuracy across temperature and supply variations.
Can the TLC5946RHBR detect open-circuit LEDs during operation?
Yes, the TLC5946RHBR performs continuous LED open detection (LOD) during active display periods. When an LED disconnects or fails open, the voltage at the corresponding OUTn pin drops below 0.3 V (typ), triggering the XERR pin to assert low. This occurs independently of BLANK state and requires no host intervention - enabling real-time fault logging in signage and safety-critical lighting systems.
What is the function of the XHALF pin on the TLC5946RHBR?
The XHALF pin enables extended serial interface mode. When XHALF = LOW, the TLC5946RHBR enters daisy-chain configuration: SOUT drives SIN of the next device, allowing cascaded data transfer across multiple ICs using shared SCLK, XLAT, and GSCLK lines. This reduces MCU GPIO count and simplifies timing synchronization for large LED arrays - critical in video wall and architectural lighting designs.
Does the TLC5946RHBR require external components for thermal management?
Yes - the TLC5946RHBR QFN-32 package includes an exposed thermal pad (PowerPAD™) that must be soldered to a minimum 100 mm² copper pour on the PCB for rated thermal performance. Without proper thermal pad attachment, power dissipation derates from 3482 mW (at +25°C) to 1811 mW. TI recommends 2 oz. copper and thermal vias to inner ground planes to maintain junction temperature ≤+125°C under full 40 mA/channel load.
TLC5946RHBR 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:
- 40mA
- Frequency:
- 30MHz
- Dimming:
- -
- Applications:
- Backlight, Signage
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-VQFN (5x5)
TLC5946RHBR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLC5946RHBR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLC5946RHBR 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 TLC5946RHBR reliable?
The price and inventory of TLC5946RHBR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLC5946RHBR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLC5946RHBR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TLC5946RHBR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TLC5946RHBR?
TLC5946RHBR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLC5946RHBR 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 TLC5946RHBR?
For technical support, including TLC5946RHBR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLC5946RHBR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLC5946RHBR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLC5946RHBR 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 TLC5946RHBR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLC5946RHBR?
All TLC5946RHBR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLC5946RHBR, 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 TLC5946RHBR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLC5946RHBR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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