TLC5946PW LED Driver IC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TLC5946PW is a 16-output linear LED driver IC manufactured by Texas Instruments, housed in a 28-TSSOP package. This shift register-based driver delivers 40mA per channel output with a supply voltage range of 3V to 5.5V, making it suitable for backlight and signage applications. The device is classified as Last Time Buy, indicating end-of-life status. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to ensure design continuity, maintain supply chain flexibility, and support long-term product availability for applications currently using this component.

Substiute Parts

TLC5946PW

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 924TLC5946PW Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

TLC5946PWPR

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 19892TLC5946PWPR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

MAX6969AUG+T

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 2829MAX6969AUG+T Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

PCA9685PW,112

NXP USA Inc.In Stock: 100450PCA9685PW,112 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

STP16CPP05MTR

STMicroelectronicsIn Stock: 33470STP16CPP05MTR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

STP16DPPS05XTTR

STMicroelectronicsIn Stock: 1153STP16DPPS05XTTR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the TLC5946PW is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Number of Outputs: Must be 16 channels
• Current - Output / Channel: 40mA nominal (±15mA variance acceptable for linear drivers)
• Voltage - Supply Range: 3V to 5.5V minimum compatibility
• Type: Linear driver topology
• Topology: Shift register-based control
• Internal Switches: Must be present
• Package Compatibility: Surface mount packages with equivalent or smaller footprints
• Operating Temperature: Minimum -40°C to 85°C range
• RoHS Compliance: ROHS3 Compliant

The substitute parts listed below meet these core electrical and mechanical criteria, though variations in packaging format, output voltage rating, and frequency specifications exist. These variations are documented to enable informed selection based on specific application requirements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

TLC5946PWPR (Texas Instruments) is the primary direct substitute. It maintains identical electrical specifications (16 outputs, 40mA per channel, 3V–5.5V supply, 17V output) and operates within the same temperature range (-40°C to 85°C). The primary difference is packaging format: TLC5946PWPR is supplied in Tape & Reel format versus the original Tube packaging. Both are ROHS3 Compliant and Active products, ensuring continued availability and supply chain support.

STP16CPP05MTR and STP16DPPS05XTTR (STMicroelectronics) are functionally equivalent alternatives with identical output current (40mA) and shift register topology. Both support extended operating temperature ranges (-40°C to 125°C), providing enhanced thermal performance. Output voltage ratings are higher (20V versus 17V), suitable for applications requiring greater output voltage headroom. STP16DPPS05XTTR includes an exposed pad for improved thermal management. Package footprints differ: STP16CPP05MTR uses 24-SOIC (wider), while STP16DPPS05XTTR uses 24-TSSOP (equivalent width to original).

MAX6969AUG+T (Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated) offers higher output current (55mA per channel) with identical 16-output shift register topology and 3V–5.5V supply range. Extended operating temperature (-40°C to 125°C) is supported. Output voltage is limited to 5.5V, restricting use to lower-voltage applications. Package is 24-TSSOP, reducing PCB footprint compared to the original 28-TSSOP.

PCA9685PW,112 (NXP USA Inc.) provides PWM-based dimming control instead of shift register topology, with lower output current (25mA per channel). Supply voltage range extends to 2.3V minimum, offering broader low-voltage compatibility. Output voltage is 5.5V. Package is 28-TSSOP, maintaining original footprint compatibility. This option is suitable for applications where PWM dimming control is acceptable and output current requirements do not exceed 25mA.

All substitute parts are ROHS3 Compliant and carry Active product status, ensuring regulatory compliance and long-term availability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can TLC5946PWPR be used as a direct replacement for TLC5946PW?

A: Yes. TLC5946PWPR is electrically and functionally identical to TLC5946PW, with the same 16 outputs, 40mA per channel, 3V–5.5V supply range, and -40°C to 85°C operating temperature. The only difference is packaging format: TLC5946PWPR is supplied in Tape & Reel format instead of Tube. Both are ROHS3 Compliant and Active products.

Q: What is the key difference between the STMicroelectronics options (STP16CPP05MTR and STP16DPPS05XTTR)?

A: Both deliver identical electrical performance (16 outputs, 40mA per channel, shift register topology, 30MHz frequency). The primary differences are package type and thermal management. STP16CPP05MTR uses 24-SOIC packaging (wider footprint), while STP16DPPS05XTTR uses 24-TSSOP with an exposed pad for enhanced thermal dissipation. Both support extended operating temperature (-40°C to 125°C).

Q: Why does MAX6969AUG+T have higher output current (55mA) than the TLC5946PW (40mA)?

A: MAX6969AUG+T is designed for higher-current LED driving applications. While it maintains 16 outputs and shift register topology, the increased per-channel current capability (55mA) allows driving brighter or more numerous LEDs per output. Output voltage is limited to 5.5V, making it suitable for lower-voltage LED arrays.

Q: Can PCA9685PW,112 replace TLC5946PW in all applications?

A: PCA9685PW,112 is functionally compatible for 16-output LED driving but has two key limitations: lower output current (25mA versus 40mA) and PWM-based dimming instead of shift register control. It is suitable only for applications where output current does not exceed 25mA and PWM dimming control is acceptable. Output voltage is 5.5V, restricting use to lower-voltage LED applications.

Q: What are the package footprint implications when switching from TLC5946PW to substitute parts?

A: TLC5946PW uses 28-TSSOP packaging. TLC5946PWPR and PCA9685PW,112 maintain this footprint. STP16DPPS05XTTR uses 24-TSSOP (smaller), while STP16CPP05MTR uses 24-SOIC (wider). MAX6969AUG+T uses 24-TSSOP. PCB layout modifications may be required for parts with different package dimensions.

Q: Are all substitute parts ROHS3 Compliant?

A: Yes. All listed substitute parts (TLC5946PWPR, MAX6969AUG+T, PCA9685PW,112, STP16CPP05MTR, and STP16DPPS05XTTR) are ROHS3 Compliant, meeting regulatory requirements for hazardous substance restrictions.

Q: Which substitute offers the best thermal performance?

A: STP16DPPS05XTTR includes an exposed pad for improved thermal management and supports extended operating temperature (-40°C to 125°C). This design is optimal for high-temperature or high-power applications. STP16CPP05MTR and MAX6969AUG+T also support -40°C to 125°C operation.