Texas Instruments TLC5948DBQR
- Part No.:
- TLC5948DBQR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 24-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
TLC5948DBQR.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRIVER LINEAR 60MA 24SSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
TLC5948DBQR from Texas Instruments is a 16-channel, 16-bit enhanced-spectrum PWM LED driver with integrated dot correction (7-bit), global brightness control (7-bit), and full self-diagnosis. It delivers constant-current sink outputs from 2 mA to 60 mA per channel (VCC > 3.6 V), supports up to 10 V LED supply, and operates across –40°C to +85°C for high-reliability LED video displays.
For engineers reviewing the TLC5948DBQR datasheet, TLC5948DBQR pinout, TLC5948DBQR application, or TLC5948DBQR equivalent, key selection criteria include its 16-bit grayscale resolution, thermal error flag (TEF) and pre-thermal warning (PTW), invisible LED open/short detection (IDM), four-channel grouped delay switching to limit inrush current, and compatibility with daisy-chained configurations for large-scale signage.
Technical Context
The TLC5948DBQR implements an enhanced-spectrum (ES-PWM) timing architecture with dual 16-bit grayscale data latches, auto-display repeat, and display timing reset-enabling flicker-free, high-fidelity LED intensity control. Its serial interface uses SIN/SCLK/LAT/GSCLK with 33 MHz maximum clock rates for both data shift and grayscale timing.
It integrates six independent fault monitors: LED open (LOD), LED short (LSD), output leakage (OLD), IREF short (ISF), pre-thermal warning (PTW), and thermal error flag (TEF). All status flags are readable via SOUT after LAT assertion, supporting real-time system-level diagnostics without interrupt overhead.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output channels | 16 constant-current sink outputs (OUT0–OUT15), individually programmable via 16-bit GS data |
| Grayscale resolution | 16-bit (65,536 steps) ES-PWM with auto-refresh-enables smooth, high-dynamic-range intensity control without visible contouring |
| Dot correction | 7-bit (128 steps, 0%–100% range) per channel-compensates for LED binning and PCB trace mismatch across all 16 outputs |
| Global brightness control | 7-bit (128 steps, 25%–100% range)-scales all 16 channels simultaneously while preserving relative DC-adjusted ratios |
| Constant-current accuracy | ±0.6% (typ), ±2% (max) channel-to-channel; ±1% (typ), ±4% (max) device-to-device-ensures uniform luminance across panels |
| Supply voltage range | VCC = 3.0 V to 5.5 V; LED supply up to 10 V-supports mixed-voltage systems with independent LED rail control |
| Data rate | 33 MHz SCLK and GSCLK-enables full 16-bit GS data load in <16 µs, critical for high-refresh-rate video walls |
Pinout & Package
Package: SSOP-24 (DBQ), 0.154-inch body width, PowerPAD™ not present (distinct from PWP variant).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| GND (Pin 1) | Power ground reference | Primary return path for all internal current sinks and logic; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling into analog current paths |
| SIN (Pin 2) | Serial data input | Feeds LSB-first 257-bit common shift register; accepts GS, DC, BC, and control data under SCLK |
| SCLK (Pin 3) | Serial clock input | Drives data shift into 257-bit register on rising edge; max 33 MHz-determines update latency for full-frame reconfiguration |
| LAT (Pin 4) | Latch control input | Rising edge transfers data from shift register to first GS latch (MSB=0) or first control latch (MSB=1); triggers status readout on SOUT |
| OUT0–OUT15 (Pins 5–12, 13–20) | Constant-current sink outputs | Each drives one LED cathode; supports parallel grouping for higher current; voltage compliance up to 10 V |
| IREF (Pin 23) | Reference current terminal | Resistor (RIREF) from IREF to GND sets max sink current (2–60 mA); shorting to GND forces all outputs off and asserts ISF flag |
| SOUT (Pin 22) | Serial status output | Shifts out 257-bit status information (LOD/LSD/OLD/ISF/PTW/TEF) after LAT; enables daisy-chain diagnostic readback |
| GSCLK (Pin 21) | Grayscale clock input | Controls PWM counter increment/reset; rising edge triggers output state change; 33 MHz max-defines minimum PWM period (30 ns) |
| VCC (Pin 24) | Logic supply | Powers internal logic, shift registers, and control circuitry; decoupling required near pin to suppress digital switching noise |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Full self-diagnosis with six error flags | LOD, LSD, OLD, ISF, PTW, TEF-all readable via SOUT without external sensors or firmware polling overhead |
| Invisible detection mode (IDM) | LED open/short tests execute during blanking periods-no visible flicker or interruption to displayed content |
| Four-channel grouped delay switching | Outputs sequenced in four groups (0–3, 4–7, 8–11, 12–15) to limit simultaneous turn-on inrush current-reduces peak input capacitance stress |
| Power-save mode | Reduces VCC current to <40 µA by disabling GS counter and drivers while retaining register state-ideal for standby in battery-backed signage |
| Dual GS data latches with auto-display repeat | Enables seamless frame transitions: second latch holds next frame while first drives active display-eliminates tearing or blanking artifacts |
| Thermal protection with hysteresis | TEF asserts at TJ ≥150°C (min); THYS = 5–20°C-prevents thermal runaway while avoiding chatter near trip point |
Applications
| LED Video Displays | Architectural LED Signage |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: High-resolution indoor video wall with 16×16 LED modules per driver, requiring 120 Hz refresh and zero visible PWM contouring. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary grayscale controller delivering 16-bit ES-PWM timing to 16 LED strings; LAT synchronizes frame updates; GSCLK governs pixel intensity resolution. Use Value: 65,536-step grayscale eliminates banding in dark gradients; auto-display repeat ensures tear-free motion; invisible IDM enables continuous health monitoring without display interruption. |
Use Scenario: Outdoor architectural lighting system with long cable runs, variable ambient temperature (–40°C to +85°C), and remote fault reporting requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink driver for RGB LED strips; TEF/PTW provide thermal derating alerts; SOUT daisy-chain enables centralized diagnostics across 50+ nodes. Use Value: ±2% channel-to-channel current matching ensures uniform color mixing; 10 V LED compliance accommodates voltage drop over 5 m cables; grouped delay switching prevents breaker tripping during cold-start. |
| Transportation Information Signs | Industrial Control Panels |
Use Scenario: DOT-compliant highway message signs operating 24/7 with mandatory self-test and failure logging per NEMA TS-2. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fault-tolerant LED driver with embedded LOD/LSD/ISF detection; LAT-triggered SOUT readout feeds status to central controller every 5 seconds. Use Value: Invisible detection mode satisfies "no visible interruption" requirement; PTW alerts allow predictive maintenance before TEF shutdown; DC calibration compensates for LED aging drift over 5-year service life. |
Use Scenario: HMI panel in factory automation with ESD-prone environment, need for rapid LED status indication, and strict EMC limits. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Status indicator driver with fast GSCLK response; power-save mode reduces standby current; robust ESD rating (4 kV HBM) protects against operator discharge. Use Value: 33 MHz SCLK enables sub-millisecond reconfiguration of alarm states; ±0.6% typical current matching ensures consistent LED brightness across operator interface; low-noise constant-current design minimizes conducted emissions. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC5947DBQR | 16-channel, 12-bit grayscale (4096 steps), no PTW or invisible detection mode; identical DBQ package and pinout | Lacks ES-PWM and full self-diagnosis-suitable only where cost sensitivity outweighs grayscale fidelity and fault coverage | Select when 12-bit resolution suffices and thermal/fault diagnostics are handled externally |
| MAX7219CWG+ | 8-channel, 10-bit PWM; SPI interface; no dot correction, no thermal flags; WSOIC-24 package with different pin assignment | Targeted at 7-segment/matrix displays-not suitable for high-fidelity linear LED arrays requiring per-channel DC calibration | Choose only for legacy 8-channel designs with simple multiplexed displays and no self-test requirements |
Compared with TLC5948DBQR, TLC5947DBQR offers lower resolution and reduced diagnostics but shares footprint and basic control protocol; MAX7219CWG+ provides simpler integration for low-channel-count applications but lacks the precision current matching, extended grayscale, and comprehensive fault reporting required for professional LED video systems.
Availability
TLC5948DBQR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED video displays, architectural signage, transportation information signs, and industrial control panels requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for TLC5948DBQR 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 high-reliability ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.
The TLC5948 belongs to TI's high-precision LED driver product line, engineered specifically for professional-grade LED video and signage applications demanding 16-bit grayscale fidelity, per-channel calibration, and embedded system-level diagnostics.
FAQ
What is the maximum sink current per channel for TLC5948DBQR?
The TLC5948DBQR supports a maximum constant-current sink of 45 mA per channel when VCC ≤ 3.6 V, and up to 60 mA per channel when VCC > 3.6 V. This is set by the external resistor RIREF connected between IREF and GND, with values ranging from 0.846 kΩ (60 mA) to 25.4 kΩ (2 mA). The TLC5948DBQR maintains ±2% max channel-to-channel current matching across this range.
How does the invisible detection mode (IDM) work in TLC5948DBQR?
IDM in the TLC5948DBQR performs LED open and short detection during blanking intervals-when all outputs are forcibly turned off-so testing occurs without visible flicker or disruption to displayed content. Detection thresholds (e.g., VLOD0 = 0.30 V) are internally generated and sampled synchronously with LAT, and results are reported via SOUT as part of the status information data (SID). This capability is unique to the TLC5948DBQR among TI's LED drivers.
Can TLC5948DBQR be daisy-chained, and how is status read back?
Yes, the TLC5948DBQR supports daisy-chaining via SIN→SOUT interconnection between devices. After asserting LAT, the 257-bit status information (including LOD, LSD, OLD, ISF, PTW, and TEF flags) shifts out MSB-first on SOUT, synchronized to SCLK. In a chain of n devices, the host reads n × 257 bits total, enabling centralized fault monitoring across large LED arrays without additional GPIO or I²C infrastructure.
What is the role of the two grayscale data latches in TLC5948DBQR?
The TLC5948DBQR uses two independent 16-bit grayscale data latches to enable seamless frame updates. While the first latch drives the active display, the second latch accepts new GS data via the serial interface. When display timing reset is enabled, LAT copies data from the shift register to both latches simultaneously-eliminating visual tearing or blanking. This dual-latch architecture is essential for high-refresh-rate video applications using the TLC5948DBQR.
Does TLC5948DBQR support power-save mode, and what is its current draw?
Yes, the TLC5948DBQR features a hardware-enabled power-save mode activated by writing PSMODE = 110b and BLANK = 1. In this state, the GS counter halts, all outputs turn off, and VCC supply current drops to ≤40 µA (typical at +25°C). Register contents-including GS, DC, and BC data-are retained, allowing instant resumption of operation without reinitialization. This mode is confirmed in the TLC5948DBQR datasheet Section 7.6 and Figure 10.
TLC5948DBQR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 24-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- Shift Register
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 16
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 3V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output:
- 10V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 60mA
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- -
- Applications:
- Signage
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 24-SSOP
TLC5948DBQR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLC5948DBQR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLC5948DBQR 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 TLC5948DBQR reliable?
The price and inventory of TLC5948DBQR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLC5948DBQR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLC5948DBQR?
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Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TLC5948DBQR?
TLC5948DBQR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLC5948DBQR 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 TLC5948DBQR?
For technical support, including TLC5948DBQR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLC5948DBQR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLC5948DBQR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLC5948DBQR 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 TLC5948DBQR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLC5948DBQR?
All TLC5948DBQR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLC5948DBQR, 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 TLC5948DBQR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLC5948DBQR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TLC5948DBQR Tags

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