Texas Instruments TLC5951DAP
- Part No.:
- TLC5951DAP
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 38-PowerTSSOP (0.240", 6.10mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
TLC5951DAP.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRVR LINEAR 40MA 38HTSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
TLC5951DAP from Texas Instruments is a 24-channel, constant-current sink LED driver IC with integrated 12-bit PWM grayscale control, 7-bit dot correction, and independent 8-bit global brightness control per RGB group. It delivers 40 mA per channel, supports 15 V LED supply, operates from –40°C to 85°C, and targets high-accuracy full-color LED display systems requiring precise per-channel current matching and multi-group timing.
For engineers reviewing the TLC5951DAP datasheet, TLC5951DAP pinout, TLC5951DAP application, or TLC5951DAP equivalent, this page provides verified technical context on its triple-color-group PWM architecture, daisy-chain serial interface, real-time LED open/short detection, thermal shutdown with auto-restart, and HTSSOP-38 package–specific layout and thermal behavior.
Technical Context
The TLC5951DAP implements three independent grayscale clock inputs (GSCKR/GSCKG/GSCKB) enabling synchronized yet distinct PWM timing for red, green, and blue LED groups-each with dedicated 12-bit grayscale counters and 8-bit global brightness registers. Its dual serial interface separates grayscale data (288-bit GSSIN/GSSCK path) from dot correction and brightness configuration (216-bit DCSIN/DCSCK path), supporting concurrent updates without display interruption.
It integrates continuous LED-open detection (LOD), LED-short detection (LSD), and thermal error flag (TEF) circuits with automatic reporting via GSSOUT. The device uses grouped output delay (24 ns typical between paired outputs) to limit inrush current and includes auto-display-repeat functionality for seamless static content rendering.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output channels | 24 constant-current sinks, grouped as 8×R / 8×G / 8×B with independent control |
| Max sink current | 40 mA per channel, set by external IREF resistor (e.g., 1.2 kΩ for 40 mA target) |
| Grayscale resolution | 12-bit (4096-step) PWM per channel, selectable down to 10-bit or 8-bit for reduced bandwidth |
| Dot correction | 7-bit (128-step) per-channel current trim to compensate for LED and channel mismatches |
| Global brightness | 8-bit (256-step) per-color-group scaling applied post-grayscale, enabling white-point tuning |
| Data rate | 30 MHz serial clock (GSSCK/DCSCK), supporting fast frame updates in large displays |
| Operating voltage | VCC = 3 V to 5.5 V; LED supply up to 15 V-enables direct drive of common-anode RGB modules |
| Thermal protection | Thermal shutdown with auto-restart at TJ ≥ 150°C; junction-to-ambient RθJA = 27.8°C/W (HTSSOP-38) |
Pinout & Package
Package: HTSSOP-38 (DAP) with exposed thermal pad; body size 12.50 mm × 6.20 mm; RoHS-compliant, lead-free finish.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| GSSIN | Serial input (grayscale/data) | LSB input for 288-bit common shift register holding GS, DC, BC, FC data; internal 500-kΩ pull-down |
| GSSCK | Serial clock (grayscale/data) | Rising-edge–triggered shift clock for GSSIN; also clocks GSSOUT readback of LOD/LSD/TEF status |
| GSLAT | Latch control | Rising edge copies 288-bit register to GS latch (if low at last GSSCK) or DC/BC/FC latch (if high) |
| DCSIN | Serial input (dot correction/brightness) | LSB input for 216-bit dedicated shift register for DC, BC, FC, and function control data |
| DCSCK | Serial clock (dot correction/brightness) | Rising-edge–triggered clock for DCSIN; MSB appears on DCSOUT after final shift |
| XBLNK | Blanking control | Active-low global blank: forces all outputs OFF, resets grayscale counters, initializes PWM controller |
| GSCKR/GSCKG/GSCKB | Grayscale clocks (R/G/B) | Independent 33-MHz reference clocks driving PWM counters per color group; enable time-multiplexed color control |
| IREF | Current reference | Analog input/output: resistor to GND sets full-scale sink current (e.g., 1.2 kΩ → 40 mA) |
| OUTR0–OUTR7 OUTG0–OUTG7 OUTB0–OUTB7 |
Constant-current outputs | 24 open-drain sinks grouped into RGB; each pair switches with 24 ns stagger to reduce EMI/inrush |
| VCC / GND | Power rails | VCC = 3–5.5 V logic supply; GND referenced for all analog/digital functions and thermal pad |
| GSSOUT / DCSOUT | Serial outputs | GSSOUT reports status bits (LOD/LSD/TEF) and latched data; DCSOUT shifts out MSB of DC/BC register |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Triple independent grayscale clocks | Enables precise white-balance tuning and color-specific PWM timing without inter-group interference |
| Continuous LED-open/short detection | Real-time monitoring per channel with status bit reporting via GSSOUT-no external sense resistors required |
| Dual-path serial interface | Separate GSSIN/GSSCK (288-bit) and DCSIN/DCSCK (216-bit) paths allow simultaneous GS update and DC/BC reconfiguration |
| Grouped output switching delay | 24 ns typical stagger between paired outputs (e.g., OUTR0/OUTR4) suppresses peak inrush current and EMI |
| Auto-display repeat mode | Hardware-enabled loop playback of grayscale data-eliminates host MCU intervention during static display periods |
| Thermal shutdown with auto-restart | Protects against sustained overtemperature; resumes operation automatically once junction cools below threshold |
Applications
| Full-Color LED Video Walls | Outdoor LED Signboards |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: High-resolution outdoor video wall using daisy-chained TLC5951DAP drivers per module, driven by FPGA-based video controller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink driver providing per-pixel grayscale control, dot correction for uniformity, and RGB-group brightness scaling for daylight visibility adjustment. Use Value: 12-bit grayscale + 7-bit dot correction ensures >99% luminance uniformity across 10,000+ LEDs; triple GS clocks enable flicker-free 120 Hz refresh. |
Use Scenario: Modular roadside signboard with segmented RGB panels, operating continuously in wide ambient temperature range. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary LED driver managing 24-channel per-module current, real-time open-circuit fault detection, and thermal management under solar loading. Use Value: Continuous LOD/LSD monitoring reduces field failure rates; thermal shutdown with auto-restart maintains uptime during summer peak temperatures. |
| Architectural Lighting Systems | Stage & Entertainment Displays |
|
Use Scenario: Programmable RGBW facade lighting system with centralized DMX512-to-SPI bridge controlling multiple TLC5951DAP chains. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision current source delivering calibrated white-point mixing via independent R/G/B global brightness registers. Use Value: 8-bit per-group BC allows dynamic CCT adjustment from 2700K to 6500K without changing grayscale data-reducing host processing load. |
Use Scenario: High-speed stage lighting fixture requiring rapid color transitions and zero visible PWM artifacts. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-bandwidth LED driver supporting 30 MHz data transfer and 33 MHz grayscale clocks for sub-millisecond frame updates. Use Value: Auto-display repeat eliminates microcontroller latency bottlenecks; grouped output delay ensures clean power rail transients during strobe effects. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC5947 | 16-channel, 12-bit PWM, no dot correction; single GS clock; QFN-32 package | Lacks per-channel dot correction and RGB-grouped clocks-suited for monochrome or simpler RGB systems | Select when board space is constrained and dot correction is handled externally or not required |
| IS31FL3731 | 18-channel, 8-bit PWM, integrated dot correction; I²C interface; QFN-28 package | I²C interface simplifies host connection but limits max data rate vs. SPI; lower channel count and resolution | Select for low-pin-count designs where 8-bit grayscale and I²C integration outweigh need for 12-bit fidelity |
Compared with TLC5951DAP, TLC5947 offers smaller footprint and lower cost but sacrifices dot correction accuracy and RGB timing flexibility; IS31FL3731 trades off channel count and PWM depth for simplified I²C control and integrated memory-making it suitable for compact, lower-resolution displays.
Availability
TLC5951DAP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for full-color LED video walls, outdoor signboards, architectural lighting systems, and stage entertainment displays requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for TLC5951DAP 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 consumer applications.
The TLC5951 belongs to TI's high-precision LED driver product line, designed specifically for demanding RGB display systems requiring per-channel current accuracy, real-time fault detection, and multi-group timing control in harsh thermal environments.
FAQ
What is the maximum LED supply voltage supported by the TLC5951DAP?
The TLC5951DAP supports LED supply voltages up to 15 V on its OUTx pins, enabling direct drive of common-anode RGB LED modules without external high-voltage transistors. This rating is specified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table and applies across the full operating temperature range (–40°C to 85°C). The logic supply (VCC) remains independent at 3 V to 5.5 V.
How does the TLC5951DAP implement dot correction, and what is its effective resolution?
The TLC5951DAP implements 7-bit dot correction (128-step) per channel to compensate for LED forward-voltage variation and channel-to-channel current mismatch. Each correction value adjusts the constant-current sink strength multiplicatively, with calibration data loaded via the DCSIN/DCSCK interface into dedicated DC registers. This enables luminance uniformity correction across large LED arrays without altering grayscale data.
Can the TLC5951DAP be daisy-chained, and how is data routed between devices?
Yes, the TLC5951DAP supports daisy-chaining via its serial interfaces: GSSOUT of one device connects to GSSIN of the next for grayscale data, and DCSOUT connects to DCSIN for dot correction and brightness data. The device automatically shifts data through the chain using GSSCK and DCSCK clocks, with latch signals (GSLAT) synchronized across all devices to ensure atomic frame updates without visual tearing.
What thermal management features does the TLC5951DAP include, and how do they behave?
The TLC5951DAP includes thermal shutdown (TSD) that activates at junction temperature ≥150°C, forcing all outputs OFF and halting PWM operation. Once temperature falls below the hysteresis threshold (~140°C), the device auto-restarts without external reset. Its HTSSOP-38 (DAP) package features an exposed thermal pad with RθJA = 27.8°C/W, requiring proper PCB copper pour and thermal vias for reliable operation at full 40 mA/channel load.
Does the TLC5951DAP support real-time fault detection, and how is it reported?
Yes, the TLC5951DAP provides continuous LED-open detection (LOD), LED-short detection (LSD), and thermal error flag (TEF) monitoring. These status bits are readable via the GSSOUT pin during serial readback cycles triggered by GSSCK-no additional GPIO or interrupt lines required. Each channel's LOD/LSD state is latched and accessible in the status information data (SID) register for diagnostic logging.
TLC5951DAP Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 38-PowerTSSOP (0.240", 6.10mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- Shift Register
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 24
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 3V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output:
- 15V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 40mA
- Frequency:
- 30MHz
- Dimming:
- -
- Applications:
- Signage
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 38-HTSSOP
TLC5951DAP FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLC5951DAP through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLC5951DAP 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 TLC5951DAP reliable?
The price and inventory of TLC5951DAP are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLC5951DAP is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLC5951DAP?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TLC5951DAP transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TLC5951DAP?
TLC5951DAP orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLC5951DAP 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 TLC5951DAP?
For technical support, including TLC5951DAP datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLC5951DAP requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLC5951DAP is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLC5951DAP 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 TLC5951DAP meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLC5951DAP?
All TLC5951DAP units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLC5951DAP, 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 TLC5951DAP part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLC5951DAP:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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