Texas Instruments TLC5955DCAR
- Part No.:
- TLC5955DCAR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 56-PowerTFSOP (0.240", 6.10mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
TLC5955DCAR.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRV LIN ANALOG 56HTSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:14,888
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Product details
Overview
TLC5955DCAR from Texas Instruments is a 48-channel, 16-bit PWM LED driver with integrated dot correction (DC), global brightness control (BC), and LED open/short detection. It delivers constant-current sink outputs up to 31.9 mA per channel (VCC > 3.6 V), supports 65,536-step grayscale control, and operates across –40°C to +85°C for high-reliability LED video displays.
For engineers reviewing the TLC5955DCAR datasheet, TLC5955DCAR pinout, TLC5955DCAR application, or TLC5955DCAR equivalent, key selection criteria include its 48-channel RGB output grouping, 769-bit serial interface architecture, real-time LOD/LSD fault reporting via SOUT, and thermal-pad HTSSOP-56 package compatibility with industrial LED panel designs.
Technical Context
The TLC5955DCAR implements a hierarchical 3-layer current control architecture: 3-bit maximum current (MC) sets per-color-group full-scale range (3–30 mA), 7-bit dot correction (DC) tunes individual channel current from 26.2% to 100%, and 7-bit global brightness control (BC) scales R/G/B group intensity from 10% to 100%. All parameters are loaded via a single 769-bit serial shift register.
Its functional block integrates independent grayscale counters per channel synchronized to GSCLK (up to 33 MHz), auto-display-repeat timing logic, UVLO-initiated default data loading, and delay-switching circuitry to suppress inrush current during output transitions - enabling stable operation in high-density LED signage with minimal external components.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Output channels | 48 constant-current sink outputs grouped as 16 red (OUTR0–OUTR15), 16 green (OUTG0–OUTG15), 16 blue (OUTB0–OUTB15) |
| Grayscale resolution | 16-bit (65,536 steps) PWM control per channel, enabling precise luminance gradation for high-fidelity color reproduction |
| Sink current range | 3–30 mA per channel, selectable in 8 steps via 3-bit MC register; max 31.9 mA at VCC > 3.6 V |
| Dot correction | 7-bit (128 steps) per-channel current trim, correcting manufacturing variance to achieve ±2% typical channel-to-channel uniformity |
| Global brightness | 7-bit (128 steps) per-color-group scaling, allowing independent R/G/B white-point tuning without altering grayscale data |
| Data clock rates | SCLK up to 25 MHz for serial data shifting; GSCLK up to 33 MHz for grayscale timing - supporting fast-refresh LED panels |
| Fault detection | Dedicated LED open detection (LOD) and LED short detection (LSD) with status readout via SOUT after LAT falling edge |
Pinout & Package
Package: HTSSOP-56 (DCA), 14.0 mm × 6.1 mm body, exposed thermal pad (soldered to PCB GND).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| SIN | Serial input | MSB-first data input to 769-bit common shift register; accepts GS, DC, BC, MC, and command bits |
| SCLK | Shift clock | Rising-edge-triggered clock for serial data shifting; supports up to 25 MHz operation |
| LAT | Latch control | Rising edge latches data into GS latch (MSB = 0) or control latch (MSB = 1); enables display timing reset when TMGRST = 1 |
| GSCLK | Grayscale clock | Rising edge increments PWM counter; resets counter and forces all outputs off when TMGRST enabled |
| SOUT | Serial output | MSB of common shift register; outputs LOD/LSD status data after LAT falling edge for fault diagnostics |
| VCC | Power supply | 3.0–5.5 V digital/analog supply; powers internal logic, reference, and output drivers |
| GND | Ground | Power ground (pins 29, 56); thermal pad must be soldered to PCB GND for thermal management |
| OUTR0–OUTR15 | Red channel sinks | Constant-current outputs for red LEDs; each supports up to 10 V LED supply voltage |
| OUTG0–OUTG15 | Green channel sinks | Constant-current outputs for green LEDs; parallel configuration allowed to increase current capability |
| OUTB0–OUTB15 | Blue channel sinks | Constant-current outputs for blue LEDs; independent voltage tolerance per output enables mixed-Vf LED arrays |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated current setting | Eliminates external current-setting resistors - removes resistor drift, tolerance, and failure modes while reducing BOM count |
| Low-knee voltage | 0.25 V typical saturation voltage enables efficient operation with low-Vf LEDs and reduces power loss in high-density arrays |
| Auto data refresh | Refreshes only GS and DC data automatically, preserving BC/MC settings - simplifies host controller firmware and reduces bus traffic |
| UVLO initialization | Resets internal registers to safe defaults on power-up, preventing unintended LED turn-on during supply ramp |
| Inrush current suppression | Internal delay switching prevents simultaneous channel turn-on, avoiding peak current surges that stress power supplies and PCB traces |
Applications
| LED Video Displays | Variable Message Signs (VMS) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: High-resolution indoor/outdoor LED video walls requiring precise color fidelity and long-term brightness uniformity. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: 48-channel constant-current sink driver with per-pixel grayscale, dot correction, and global white balance control. Use Value: Enables 281 trillion color generation and ±2% channel uniformity - critical for seamless tiling and consistent image quality across large displays. | Use Scenario: Highway-facing dynamic message signs needing robust fault detection and wide temperature operation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: LED driver with integrated LED open/short detection (LOD/LSD) and –40°C to +85°C operating range. Use Value: Real-time fault reporting via SOUT allows immediate identification of failed LEDs - minimizing maintenance downtime and ensuring regulatory compliance. |
| Illumination Systems | Architectural LED Lighting |
Use Scenario: Tunable-white and color-mixing architectural lighting fixtures requiring smooth dimming and accurate CCT control. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: RGB current driver with independent 7-bit BC per color group and 16-bit GS per channel. Use Value: Precise 10–100% global brightness scaling per R/G/B group enables stable correlated color temperature (CCT) adjustment without grayscale recalibration. | Use Scenario: High-density linear LED strips and façade lighting where thermal management and board space are constrained. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: 48-channel HTSSOP-56 driver with exposed thermal pad and 0.25-V knee voltage. Use Value: Low saturation voltage reduces power dissipation; thermal pad connection to PCB GND maintains junction temperature below 125°C even at full load. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC5958RTQR | QFN-56 package (8 mm × 8 mm), identical electrical specs and register map; lacks thermal pad connection requirement | Better suited for space-constrained layouts where HTSSOP height or thermal pad routing is impractical | Select when PCB area is limited and thermal performance can be managed via copper pour instead of direct pad soldering |
| IS31FL3728-QFLS4 | 48-channel, 12-bit GS (4096 steps), no integrated LOD/LSD; uses I²C interface instead of SPI-like serial | Lower-cost option for non-critical signage where fault detection and ultra-fine grayscale are not required | Choose for cost-sensitive consumer lighting where 16-bit grayscale and real-time fault reporting are unnecessary |
Compared with TLC5955DCAR, TLC5958RTQR offers identical functionality in a smaller QFN package but requires different thermal design, while IS31FL3728-QFLS4 trades grayscale depth and fault detection for simplified I²C control and lower unit cost - making it suitable only for less demanding illumination applications.
Availability
TLC5955DCAR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED video displays, variable message signs (VMS), and architectural illumination requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.
Supply support for TLC5955DCAR 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 logic technologies with over 90 years of innovation in power management and signal chain solutions.
The TLC5955 belongs to TI's high-performance LED driver product line, designed specifically for professional-grade LED video and signage systems requiring precision current matching, real-time fault diagnostics, and extended temperature reliability.
FAQ
What is the maximum sink current per channel for TLC5955DCAR?
The TLC5955DCAR supports a maximum sink current of 31.9 mA per channel when VCC exceeds 3.6 V and maximum current control (MC) is set to 7. At VCC ≤ 3.6 V, the limit is 23.9 mA. This value is programmable in 8 discrete steps via the 3-bit MC register, and actual output depends on DC and BC settings as defined by TI's output current equation.
Does TLC5955DCAR require an external current-setting resistor?
No, the TLC5955DCAR does not require an external current-setting resistor. Its maximum output current is configured entirely through internal 3-bit maximum current (MC) register values, eliminating resistor-related drift, tolerance errors, and board space usage. This design improves long-term stability and simplifies layout for high-density LED panels.
How does LED open detection (LOD) work in TLC5955DCAR?
LOD in the TLC5955DCAR monitors each output for open-circuit conditions by measuring voltage at the OUTXn pin during active drive. When the voltage exceeds 0.30 V (typical threshold), the device flags an open condition. Status data for all 48 channels are packed into a 96-bit LOD/LSD register and read out serially via SOUT after the LAT falling edge - enabling rapid failure localization without external sensing circuitry.
Can TLC5955DCAR drive LEDs with different forward voltages on the same device?
Yes, the TLC5955DCAR supports independent voltage tolerance per output channel, with VOUT rated up to +11 V. This allows mixing red, green, and blue LEDs with differing forward voltages (e.g., 2.1 V, 3.3 V, 3.6 V) on the same device. Each OUTXn pin operates as a standalone constant-current sink, so varying LED Vf values do not affect current accuracy or inter-channel matching.
What is the function of the thermal pad on the TLC5955DCAR HTSSOP-56 package?
The exposed thermal pad on the TLC5955DCAR HTSSOP-56 package is electrically unconnected internally but must be soldered to a PCB GND plane for effective heat dissipation. With a junction-to-board thermal resistance (θJB) of 16.1°C/W, proper pad connection lowers operating junction temperature - critical for maintaining ±2% channel-to-channel current accuracy and reliability at full 48-channel load across –40°C to +85°C ambient.
TLC5955DCAR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 56-PowerTFSOP (0.240", 6.10mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- Shift Register
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 48
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 3V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output:
- 10V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 30mA
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- Analog
- Applications:
- Signage
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 56-HTSSOP
TLC5955DCAR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLC5955DCAR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLC5955DCAR 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 TLC5955DCAR reliable?
The price and inventory of TLC5955DCAR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLC5955DCAR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLC5955DCAR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TLC5955DCAR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TLC5955DCAR?
TLC5955DCAR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLC5955DCAR 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 TLC5955DCAR?
For technical support, including TLC5955DCAR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLC5955DCAR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLC5955DCAR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLC5955DCAR 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 TLC5955DCAR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLC5955DCAR?
All TLC5955DCAR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLC5955DCAR, 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 TLC5955DCAR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLC5955DCAR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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