Texas Instruments TLC5948PWP
- Part No.:
- TLC5948PWP
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 24-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
TLC5948PWP.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRVR LINEAR 60MA 24HTSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,883
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
TLC5948PWP 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 ±0.6% (typ) channel-to-channel constant-current accuracy, supports 2–60 mA sink per output, operates from 3.0 V to 5.5 V VCC, and features thermal shutdown, LED open/short detection, and invisible detection mode - used in high-reliability LED video displays requiring precise grayscale fidelity and fault resilience.
For engineers reviewing the TLC5948PWP datasheet, TLC5948PWP pinout, TLC5948PWP application, or TLC5948PWP equivalent, this page provides verified technical context for LED display system design, including GSCLK/SCLK timing at 33 MHz, IREF-based current programming, daisy-chainable serial interface, and real-time error flag readout via SOUT - critical for automotive signage, industrial HMIs, and broadcast-grade video walls.
Technical Context
The TLC5948PWP implements an enhanced-spectrum (ES-PWM) grayscale engine with 16-bit resolution (65,536 steps) and independent 7-bit dot correction per channel, enabling per-LED luminance calibration. Its four-channel grouped delay switching prevents inrush current during power-up or display refresh transitions.
It integrates six diagnostic flags - LED open (LOD), LED short (LSD), output leakage (OLD), IREF short (ISF), pre-thermal warning (PTW), and thermal error (TEF) - all readable via serial interface. The device supports auto-display repeat, display timing reset, and power-save mode reducing VCC current to <40 µA.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCC Range | 3.0 V to 5.5 V - compatible with standard logic supply rails and enables direct interface with 3.3 V or 5 V microcontrollers. |
| Output Sink Current | 2 mA to 60 mA per channel - programmable via external IREF resistor (0.846 kΩ to 25.4 kΩ); higher current only above 3.6 V VCC. |
| Grayscale Resolution | 16-bit (65,536 steps) ES-PWM - eliminates visible contouring in high-dynamic-range LED displays. |
| Dot Correction | 7-bit (128 steps), 0%–100% range per channel - corrects LED binning variance without external DACs or firmware compensation. |
| Global Brightness Control | 7-bit (128 steps), 25%–100% range - adjusts all 16 channels simultaneously while preserving relative grayscale linearity. |
| Data Transfer Rate | 33 MHz SCLK - enables full 257-bit frame load in ≤7.8 µs, supporting >120 Hz refresh on multi-chip daisy chains. |
| Thermal Protection | Pre-thermal warning at 125°C, thermal shutdown at 150°C - protects against sustained overtemperature in enclosed LED enclosures. |
Pinout & Package
HTSSOP-24 PowerPAD™ package (PWP) with exposed thermal pad on bottom side for enhanced heat dissipation; θJA = 39.9°C/W, θJCbot = 3.8°C/W.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| GND (Pin 1) | Power ground reference | Primary return path for all output sink currents and internal logic; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling. |
| SIN (Pin 2) | Serial data input | Feeds 257-bit common shift register; LSB-first, rising-edge aligned with SCLK; supports daisy-chaining multiple TLC5948PWP devices. |
| SCLK (Pin 3) | Serial clock input | Drives data shift into SIN register; max 33 MHz; timing-critical for high-refresh-rate applications. |
| LAT (Pin 4) | Latch control input | Rising edge transfers data from shift register to GS/DC/BC latches; triggers display timing reset when TMGRST = 1. |
| OUT0–OUT15 (Pins 5–20) | Constant-current sink outputs | 16 individually controlled channels; each supports up to 10 V LED forward voltage; parallel configuration allowed for higher current. |
| IREF (Pin 23) | Reference current terminal | Connects to GND via precision resistor to set maximum sink current; shorting to GND forces all outputs off and sets ISF flag. |
| SOUT (Pin 22) | Serial data output | Shifts out MSB of common register; carries status information (LOD/LSD/OLD/TEF/PTW/ISF) after LAT pulse. |
| GSCLK (Pin 21) | Grayscale clock input | Controls PWM counter increment; rising edge triggers output on/off transitions; synchronized across all 16 channels. |
| VCC (Pin 24) | Supply voltage | Power for logic and output drivers; decoupling capacitor required near pin to suppress switching noise. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Full self-diagnosis with 6 error flags | LOD, LSD, OLD, ISF, PTW, TEF - all readable via SOUT without interrupting display operation or requiring external sensors. |
| Invisible Detection Mode (IDM) | Enables LED open/short testing without visible flicker or interruption to active display content - essential for live signage. |
| Four-channel grouped delay switching | Staggers turn-on of OUT0–OUT3, OUT4–OUT7, OUT8–OUT11, OUT12–OUT15 - reduces peak inrush current by ≥75% vs. simultaneous switching. |
| Auto display repeat / auto data refresh | Eliminates need for continuous host MCU polling; maintains stable display output even during host sleep or communication gaps. |
| Power-save mode | Reduces VCC current to ≤40 µA while retaining latch state - extends battery life in portable LED panels and emergency signage. |
Applications
| LED Video Displays | LED Signboards |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: High-resolution indoor/outdoor video walls with >10,000 nits brightness and 120 Hz+ refresh rate. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary grayscale PWM controller driving 16 LEDs per chip; synchronizes GSCLK across daisy-chained units for frame-coherent timing. Use Value: 16-bit ES-PWM eliminates contouring artifacts; ±0.6% channel matching ensures uniform color field across modules; LOD/LSD diagnostics enable predictive maintenance. |
Use Scenario: Dynamic roadside message signs operating continuously in extreme ambient temperatures (−40°C to +85°C). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current LED driver with integrated thermal monitoring and fault reporting via serial interface. Use Value: Pre-thermal warning (PTW) at 125°C allows fan speed ramp-up before shutdown; 60 mA per channel supports high-brightness red/amber LEDs at full VLED = 10 V. |
| Industrial HMIs | Broadcast Studio Monitors |
|
Use Scenario: Operator interface panels in factory automation with safety-critical status indication and long-term reliability requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fault-tolerant LED driver providing calibrated brightness and real-time health telemetry (OLD, ISF, TEF). Use Value: Dot correction (7-bit) compensates for LED aging drift over 50,000+ hours; power-save mode cuts standby current to <40 µA for energy compliance. |
Use Scenario: Reference-grade LED-backlit studio monitors requiring ΔE < 2 color accuracy and zero visible PWM artifacts. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision grayscale engine with 16-bit ES-PWM and jitter-free GSCLK distribution across 16 parallel channels. Use Value: Enhanced-spectrum PWM minimizes temporal light modulation (TLM); 33 MHz SCLK enables sub-10 µs frame loading for real-time video processing pipelines. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC5947PWP | 16-channel, 12-bit grayscale (4096 steps), no ES-PWM; lacks PTW, OLD, and IDM; 3.3 V only VCC range. | Lower-cost signage where 16-bit fidelity and advanced diagnostics are not required. | Select TLC5947PWP only if 12-bit grayscale suffices and thermal/fault monitoring is handled externally. |
| MAX7219CWG+ | 8-channel, 10-bit PWM; no dot correction or BC; SPI interface only; no LED diagnostics; 4.0–5.5 V VCC. | Simple 7-segment or matrix displays with minimal calibration needs and no fault reporting. | Choose MAX7219CWG+ for legacy 8×8 LED matrices where cost and footprint are prioritized over precision and diagnostics. |
Compared with TLC5947PWP and MAX7219CWG+, the TLC5948PWP uniquely delivers 16-bit ES-PWM grayscale, per-channel dot correction, full self-diagnosis with invisible detection, and wide VCC compatibility - making it the only option for mission-critical, high-fidelity LED video systems demanding both performance and reliability.
Availability
TLC5948PWP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED video displays, outdoor signboards, and industrial HMI systems requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing for production programs.
Supply support for TLC5948PWP 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 TLC5948PWP belongs to TI's high-precision LED driver product line, engineered specifically for fault-resilient, high-refresh-rate LED video and signage applications demanding calibrated grayscale, thermal robustness, and real-time diagnostics.
FAQ
What is the maximum sink current per channel for TLC5948PWP?
The TLC5948PWP supports 2 mA to 60 mA per output channel. At VCC > 3.6 V, the upper limit is 60 mA (typical), set by the external IREF resistor value (e.g., 0.846 kΩ). At VCC ≤ 3.6 V, maximum is 45 mA. All 16 channels maintain ±0.6% (typ) channel-to-channel matching under these conditions, ensuring consistent LED brightness across the TLC5948PWP array.
How does the TLC5948PWP implement dot correction and global brightness control?
The TLC5948PWP uses independent 7-bit registers for dot correction (DC) per channel (0%–100% of max current) and 7-bit global brightness control (BC) across all 16 outputs (25%–100%). DC values compensate for LED binning variance; BC scales all outputs uniformly. Both are written via the 257-bit serial interface and stored in dual latches for glitch-free updates - a core capability of the TLC5948PWP architecture.
Does TLC5948PWP support daisy-chaining, and what is the maximum number of devices?
Yes, the TLC5948PWP supports seamless daisy-chaining via SIN→SOUT connections between devices. Each TLC5948PWP consumes 257 bits per frame (16×16-bit GS + 16×7-bit DC + 7-bit BC + control bits). System-level limits depend on SCLK timing margin and host controller throughput, but designs with >20 TLC5948PWP chips in cascade have been validated in commercial LED video walls using 33 MHz SCLK.
What diagnostic functions does TLC5948PWP provide, and how are they accessed?
The TLC5948PWP integrates six real-time diagnostics: LED open (LOD), LED short (LSD), output leakage (OLD), IREF short (ISF), pre-thermal warning (PTW), and thermal error (TEF). After each LAT pulse, status bits are shifted out via SOUT at the next SCLK edges. This allows full health monitoring without halting display operation - a key differentiator of the TLC5948PWP versus basic LED drivers.
What thermal performance advantages does the HTSSOP-24 PowerPAD™ package offer for TLC5948PWP?
The TLC5948PWP in HTSSOP-24 PowerPAD™ (PWP) achieves θJCbot = 3.8°C/W and θJA = 39.9°C/W - nearly half the junction-to-ambient resistance of the SSOP-24 (DBQ) variant (80.4°C/W). The exposed thermal pad must be soldered to a PCB copper pour for optimal heat transfer, enabling sustained 60 mA/channel operation at +85°C ambient without derating - a critical advantage for compact, fanless LED enclosures using TLC5948PWP.
TLC5948PWP Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 24-PowerTSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- 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-HTSSOP
TLC5948PWP FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLC5948PWP through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLC5948PWP 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 TLC5948PWP reliable?
The price and inventory of TLC5948PWP are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLC5948PWP is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLC5948PWP?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TLC5948PWP transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TLC5948PWP?
TLC5948PWP orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLC5948PWP 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 TLC5948PWP?
For technical support, including TLC5948PWP datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLC5948PWP requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLC5948PWP is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLC5948PWP 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 TLC5948PWP meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLC5948PWP?
All TLC5948PWP units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLC5948PWP, 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 TLC5948PWP part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLC5948PWP:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TLC5948PWP Tags

-
BCR402RE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR430UXTSA2
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR420UE6433HTMA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR420UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR421UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
LYT1604D-TL
Power Integrations

-
HV9910CLG-G
Microchip Technology

-
CL2N8-G
Microchip Technology

-
BCR420UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR421UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR420UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR421UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

