SP7121EK-F LED Driver IC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SP7121EK-F is a linear LED driver IC manufactured by MaxLinear, Inc., designed for 2-output PWM dimming applications with a maximum output current of 25mA per channel. The device operates across a supply voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V and is housed in a SOT-23-6 surface mount package. This part is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives necessary for ongoing design support and production continuity.

Substiute Parts

SP7121EK-F

MaxLinear, Inc.In Stock: 6326SP7121EK-F Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

AL1792AFE-13

Diodes IncorporatedIn Stock: 2037AL1792AFE-13 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The AL1792AFE-13 is identified as a manufacturer-recommended substitute for the SP7121EK-F based on the following substitution criteria:

Functional Equivalence Parameters:

• Both devices are linear LED driver ICs with 2 outputs
• Both support PWM dimming control
• Both feature internal switching capability
• Both are designed for LED driver applications

Compatibility Considerations: The AL1792AFE-13 operates at a higher supply voltage range (6.5V to 30V) and delivers significantly higher output current (500mA per channel) compared to the SP7121EK-F (2.7V to 5.5V, 25mA per channel). This substitution is valid for applications where the higher voltage and current ratings do not create design conflicts. The substitute part is housed in a 14-UFDFN package rather than SOT-23-6, requiring PCB layout modification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The AL1792AFE-13 is an active product from Diodes Incorporated with ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, providing long-term availability and regulatory compliance advantages over the obsolete SP7121EK-F. Selection of the AL1792AFE-13 requires verification that the application circuit can accommodate the higher supply voltage range (6.5V to 30V minimum) and the increased output current capability (500mA per channel). The package change from SOT-23-6 to 14-UFDFN necessitates PCB redesign. The extended operating temperature range (-40°C to 125°C) of the AL1792AFE-13 provides additional thermal margin compared to the SP7121EK-F.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the AL1792AFE-13 directly replace the SP7121EK-F without circuit modification?

A: No. While both devices are linear LED drivers with 2 outputs and PWM dimming, the AL1792AFE-13 requires a minimum supply voltage of 6.5V compared to the SP7121EK-F minimum of 2.7V. Circuit design must accommodate this voltage requirement. Additionally, the package change from SOT-23-6 to 14-UFDFN requires PCB layout modification.

Q: What are the key functional differences between these parts?

A: The primary differences are supply voltage range, output current per channel, and package type. The SP7121EK-F operates at 2.7V to 5.5V with 25mA output per channel in SOT-23-6. The AL1792AFE-13 operates at 6.5V to 30V with 500mA output per channel in 14-UFDFN. The AL1792AFE-13 also supports analog dimming in addition to PWM.

Q: Is the AL1792AFE-13 suitable for low-voltage applications below 6.5V?

A: No. The AL1792AFE-13 has a minimum supply voltage specification of 6.5V and is not rated for operation below this threshold. Applications requiring operation at 2.7V to 5.5V cannot use this substitute.

Q: What compliance certifications apply to the AL1792AFE-13?

A: The AL1792AFE-13 is ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected. Both devices carry MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity classification.

Q: Does the package change affect thermal performance?

A: The 14-UFDFN package with exposed pad provides different thermal characteristics than the SOT-23-6 package. Thermal analysis specific to the application circuit is required to determine if performance is equivalent or improved.