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Texas Instruments TLC6946DBQR
- Part No.:
- TLC6946DBQR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 24-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
TLC6946DBQR.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRIVER LINEAR NO 24SSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:1,000
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Product details
Overview
TLC6946DBQR from Texas Instruments is a 16-channel constant-current-sink LED driver IC designed for high-density, fine-pitch LED matrix displays. It delivers 16-bit (65,536-step) enhanced spectrum PWM grayscale control per channel, supports up to 32-multiplexing, and operates with 0.3–25 mA per output across 3–5.5 V VCC. Its low-knee voltage (0.3 V @ 10 mA) enables efficient driving of low-Vf LEDs in high-refresh-rate video panels.
For engineers reviewing the TLC6946DBQR datasheet, TLC6946DBQR pinout, TLC6946DBQR application, or TLC6946DBQR equivalent, key selection criteria include its 33 MHz serial interface speed, ±1% typical channel-to-channel current matching, integrated 16-Kbit SRAM for frame buffering, LED-open detection capability, and smart power-save mode drawing only 1 mA typical when outputs are off.
Technical Context
The TLC6946DBQR implements dual-bank SRAM (BANK A/B) enabling seamless frame updates-while one bank displays, the other receives new grayscale data. Its GCLK input supports both single-edge (up to 33 MHz) and dual-edge operation (enabling 50 MHz internal timing with 25 MHz external clock), directly addressing high-refresh-rate requirements in LED video walls.
It integrates dedicated circuitry for low-grayscale enhancement-including coupling issue elimination, ghosting removal, and caterpillar artifact suppression-by combining precise 16-bit PWM timing with programmable LOD threshold levels (0.12–1.28 V) and thermal shutdown (170°C) with 15°C hysteresis. The IREF pin sets full-scale current via an external resistor (1.02–10.7 kΩ), with global brightness control (7-bit, 128 steps) scaling all channels simultaneously.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCC Range | 3 V to 5.5 V - powers logic and analog sections; supports direct interface with 3.3 V or 5 V microcontrollers. |
| Output Current Range | 0.3 mA to 25 mA per channel - set by external IREF resistor and 7-bit global brightness control; covers ultra-low-power indicators to high-brightness display segments. |
| Grayscale Resolution | 16-bit (65,536 steps) - enables smooth dimming without visible contouring, critical for HDR and fine-pitch indoor LED signage. |
| Multiplexing Support | Up to 32-line multiplexing - reduces required data bandwidth and controller overhead for large-area LED panels. |
| Serial Interface Speed | 33 MHz max SCLK/GCLK - allows full 16×16 GS data load in under 10 µs, supporting >3,000 Hz refresh rates at 32× resolution. |
| Current Matching | ±1% typical channel-to-channel deviation - ensures uniform luminance across LED arrays without per-channel calibration. |
| Power-Save Current | 1 mA typical - achieved when all outputs disabled; essential for standby modes in energy-certified digital signage. |
Pinout & Package
Package: SSOP-24 (8.65 mm × 3.90 mm), RoHS-compliant, surface-mount. Thermal pad not present (unlike VQFN variant); standard PCB land pattern required.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| GCLK (Pin 21) | Grayscale clock input | Drives internal 16-bit PWM counter; supports dual-edge mode for doubled effective timing resolution without higher-frequency oscillator. |
| LAT (Pin 4) | Data latch control | Falling edge transfers shift-register data into grayscale memory or function registers; synchronizes frame updates and diagnostic reads. |
| SCLK (Pin 3) | Serial clock input | Rising edge shifts data from SIN into 16-bit common shift register; 33 MHz max rate enables rapid configuration and GS data loading. |
| SIN (Pin 2) | Serial data input | Accepts command, grayscale, or control register data; LSB-first protocol compatible with standard SPI masters. |
| SOUT (Pin 22) | Serial data output | Shifts out LED-open detection results or register contents; enables daisy-chaining multiple TLC6946DBQR devices on single bus. |
| IREF (Pin 23) | Current reference input | Connects to external resistor (1.02–10.7 kΩ) to set maximum sink current; short-protection triggers if voltage drops below 0.15 V. |
| OUT0–OUT15 (Pins 5–20) | Constant-current sink outputs | 16 independent channels; each sinks up to 25 mA with 0.3 V typical knee voltage-minimizes power loss and heat in LED strings. |
| VCC (Pin 24) | Supply voltage | Powers internal logic, memory, and analog blocks; decoupling capacitor required within 5 mm for stable 33 MHz operation. |
| GND (Pin 1) | Ground reference | Common return for VCC, IREF, and OUTx; must be low-impedance plane to maintain ±1% current accuracy across all channels. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual-bank 16-Kbit SRAM | Enables concurrent display and data loading-eliminates frame tearing and reduces host processor burden in real-time video applications. |
| Programmable LOD thresholds | Four selectable voltage thresholds (0.12–1.28 V) allow robust open-LED detection across varying LED forward voltages and temperature drift. |
| Low-grayscale enhancement | Hardware-level correction eliminates coupling artifacts and improves uniformity below 10% brightness-critical for dark-scene fidelity. |
| Smart power-save mode | Automatically reduces ICC to 1 mA typical when all outputs inactive; no software intervention needed for energy-efficient standby. |
| Thermal shutdown with hysteresis | Shuts down at 170°C junction temperature and re-enables at 155°C-prevents thermal runaway during sustained high-current operation. |
Applications
| Indoor High-Density LED Video Wall | Outdoor Full-Color Billboard Display |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: 2.5-mm pitch RGB LED panel driven at 3840 Hz refresh rate with 16-bit grayscale depth for broadcast-grade video playback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink driver providing synchronized PWM timing across 16 channels per IC; manages 32-line multiplexing to reduce data bandwidth. Use Value: Eliminates caterpillar artifacts and ghosting at low grayscale levels, ensuring accurate skin-tone reproduction and motion clarity in live video feeds. |
Use Scenario: Large-format outdoor advertising screen operating in ambient temperatures from –40°C to +85°C with IP65-rated enclosure. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary LED current controller with thermal shutdown and LED-open diagnostics-enables remote fault reporting and predictive maintenance. Use Value: ±1% channel matching maintains color consistency across thousands of modules; 0.3 V knee voltage minimizes power dissipation in high-temperature environments. |
| Architectural Lighting Control System | Stage & Event Production LED Grid |
|
Use Scenario: Programmable linear LED strips for dynamic façade lighting, controlled via DMX-to-SPI bridge with real-time brightness adjustment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: GS data receiver and PWM generator; uses LAT-triggered latching to synchronize intensity changes across distributed nodes. Use Value: 128-step global brightness control allows smooth daylight-harvesting dimming without flicker; SOUT daisy-chain simplifies wiring in long-run installations. |
Use Scenario: Portable LED grid used in concerts with rapid scene transitions, requiring zero-latency brightness updates and fault resilience. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Real-time current sink with LED-open detection-reports failed LEDs via SOUT before visible pixel dropout occurs. Use Value: Smart power-save mode cuts idle current to 1 mA, extending battery life in wireless-controlled mobile rigs; 33 MHz interface enables sub-millisecond frame loads. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar constant-current LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TLC6948DBQR | 24-Kbit SRAM supports 48-line multiplexing vs. TLC6946DBQR's 32-line limit; identical pinout, package, and interface. | Better suited for ultra-high-resolution panels (>1920×1080) where deeper multiplexing reduces data throughput demands. | Select TLC6948DBQR when system requires >32-line multiplexing; otherwise, TLC6946DBQR offers optimal cost/performance for standard HD video walls. |
| MAX7219CWG+ | 8-bit grayscale (256 steps), 8-channel, no built-in memory; SPI interface only; lacks LOD, thermal shutdown, or low-grayscale enhancement. | Targeted at simple 7-segment or dot-matrix displays-not viable for fine-pitch video applications requiring uniformity and artifact suppression. | Use MAX7219CWG+ only for low-cost indicator panels; it cannot replace TLC6946DBQR in high-fidelity LED video systems. |
Compared with TLC6948DBQR, the TLC6946DBQR trades multiplexing depth for lower gate count and reduced memory overhead-ideal for cost-sensitive HD signage. Against MAX7219CWG+, it delivers 256× finer grayscale control, 2× more channels, and comprehensive display-quality enhancements essential for professional video.
Availability
TLC6946DBQR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for indoor LED video walls, outdoor digital billboards, architectural lighting systems, and stage production grids requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for TLC6946DBQR 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 components for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.
The TLC6946DBQR belongs to TI's high-performance LED driver product line, engineered specifically for fine-pitch, high-refresh-rate LED matrix displays demanding precision current matching, artifact-free grayscale rendering, and robust system diagnostics.
FAQ
What is the maximum multiplexing level supported by the TLC6946DBQR?
The TLC6946DBQR supports up to 32-line multiplexing, enabled by its integrated 16-Kbit SRAM organized in dual banks. This allows one bank to display while the other receives new grayscale data-reducing host processor load and eliminating frame tearing. Multiplexing beyond 32 lines requires the TLC6948DBQR variant, which provides 24-Kbit memory for 48-line operation. The TLC6946DBQR's architecture is optimized for HD-resolution LED panels where 32× multiplexing balances data throughput and visual quality.
How does the TLC6946DBQR achieve ±1% channel-to-channel current matching?
The TLC6946DBQR achieves ±1% typical channel-to-channel current matching through matched internal current mirror circuitry, tight process control, and on-die reference voltage regulation (VIREF = 0.8 V typical). This matching holds across temperature (–40°C to +85°C) and supply voltage (3 V to 5.5 V), as verified in TI's production testing. External layout-especially symmetric routing of OUTx traces and proper IREF placement near the IC-must be maintained to preserve this specification. The TLC6946DBQR does not require per-channel calibration to meet this tolerance.
Can the TLC6946DBQR drive high-Vf LEDs such as white or blue types?
Yes, the TLC6946DBQR can drive high-Vf LEDs including white and blue types, as its OUTx pins support up to VCC + 0.3 V (e.g., 5.8 V with 5.5 V VCC). The device operates as a constant-current sink, so the LED string's total forward voltage must remain below VCC minus the 0.3 V typical knee voltage. For example, with VCC = 5.5 V and a 3.2 V white LED, up to one LED per channel is supported; series strings require external high-side switching. The low 0.3 V knee voltage maximizes usable headroom for high-Vf emitters.
What diagnostic functions does the TLC6946DBQR provide, and how are they accessed?
The TLC6946DBQR provides LED-open detection (LOD), IREF resistor short protection (ISP), and thermal shutdown (TSD). LOD results are read back via the SOUT pin after issuing a READLOD command over the serial interface; four programmable voltage thresholds (0.12–1.28 V) allow tuning for different LED types. ISP triggers when IREF voltage falls below 0.15 V, forcing all outputs off. TSD activates at 170°C with 15°C hysteresis. All diagnostics operate autonomously without host intervention-critical for unattended LED display operation.
Is the TLC6946DBQR pin-compatible with other devices in the TLC694x family?
Yes, the TLC6946DBQR is pin-compatible with the TLC6948DBQR in both SSOP-24 (DBQ) and VQFN-24 (RGE) packages. They share identical pin functions, electrical characteristics, and interface protocols-differing only in internal SRAM size (16 Kbit vs. 24 Kbit) and maximum multiplexing (32 vs. 48 lines). This allows direct hardware replacement in existing designs when upgrading to higher-resolution panels, provided firmware is updated to leverage the extended memory. No PCB redesign is required for migration between these two variants.
TLC6946DBQR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 24-SSOP (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Linear
- Topology:
- Constant Current
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 16
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 3V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 5.5V
- Voltage - Output:
- 0V ~ 5.5V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- -
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- No
- Applications:
- LED Lighting
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 24-SSOP
TLC6946DBQR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLC6946DBQR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLC6946DBQR 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 TLC6946DBQR reliable?
The price and inventory of TLC6946DBQR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLC6946DBQR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLC6946DBQR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TLC6946DBQR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TLC6946DBQR?
TLC6946DBQR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLC6946DBQR 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 TLC6946DBQR?
For technical support, including TLC6946DBQR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLC6946DBQR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLC6946DBQR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLC6946DBQR 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 TLC6946DBQR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLC6946DBQR?
All TLC6946DBQR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLC6946DBQR, 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 TLC6946DBQR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLC6946DBQR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
TLC6946DBQR Tags
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BCR402RE6327HTSA1
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BCR420UE6433HTMA1
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LYT1604D-TL
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HV9910CLG-G
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CL2N8-G
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BCR420UW6-7
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