TLC5946PWR LED Driver IC - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TLC5946PWR is a 16-output linear LED driver IC manufactured by Texas Instruments, designed for applications requiring precise current control in backlight and signage systems. This device features a shift register topology with internal switches, supporting supply voltages from 3V to 5.5V and delivering 40mA per output channel. The TLC5946PWR is currently in Last Time Buy status, making identification of active equivalent and substitute parts essential for ongoing design support and procurement planning.

Substiute Parts

TLC5946PWR

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 3424TLC5946PWR Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

TLC5946PWPR

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 19892TLC5946PWPR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

MAX6979AUG+T

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 1076MAX6979AUG+T Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

STP16CPPS05TTR

STMicroelectronicsIn Stock: 17859STP16CPPS05TTR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

STP16CPPS05XTTR

STMicroelectronicsIn Stock: 1756STP16CPPS05XTTR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

STP16DPS05XTTR

STMicroelectronicsIn Stock: 10210STP16DPS05XTTR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

TB62747AFNG,C8EL

Toshiba Semiconductor and StorageIn Stock: 6810TB62747AFNG,C8EL Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the TLC5946PWR is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Number of Outputs: Must be 16 outputs
• Topology: Must be Shift Register with internal switches
• Supply Voltage Range: Must support 3V to 5.5V operation
• Output Current Capability: 40mA per channel (substitutes with higher current ratings are acceptable; lower ratings are not)
• Package Compatibility: Surface mount packages with compatible pinouts and thermal characteristics
• RoHS Compliance: ROHS3 Compliant status required
• Operating Temperature: Extended range (-40°C to 125°C) substitutes are acceptable; narrower ranges must meet minimum -40°C to 85°C

The identified substitute parts meet these criteria across different manufacturers and package variants, enabling design flexibility while maintaining functional equivalence.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Substitute - TLC5946PWPR: This Texas Instruments part maintains identical electrical specifications (16 outputs, 40mA per channel, 3V-5.5V supply) and is the manufacturer-recommended direct replacement. The package variant (28-PowerTSSOP vs. 28-TSSOP) provides improved thermal performance. Product status is Active with higher inventory availability (19,784 units), making this the preferred choice for new designs and ongoing production.

Higher Current Capability Substitutes - STP16CPPS05XTTR and STP16DPS05XTTR: These STMicroelectronics parts support 40mA and 100mA per channel respectively, both exceeding the TLC5946PWR specification. Both feature extended operating temperature range (-40°C to 125°C) and are available in 24-TSSOP-EP packages with exposed pads for enhanced thermal management. These are suitable when higher current drive capability or improved thermal dissipation is required.

Alternative Manufacturer Options - MAX6979AUG+T and TB62747AFNG,C8EL: The Maxim Integrated MAX6979AUG+T provides 55mA per channel in a 24-TSSOP package with extended temperature range. The Toshiba TB62747AFNG,C8EL delivers 45mA per channel in a 24-LSSOP package. Both maintain full supply voltage compatibility and are Active products. Selection between these options depends on package footprint requirements and thermal design constraints.

All substitute parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and support the required 3V to 5.5V supply voltage range, ensuring regulatory and functional compatibility with existing designs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the TLC5946PWPR be used as a direct replacement for TLC5946PWR?

A: Yes. The TLC5946PWPR is the manufacturer-recommended equivalent, maintaining identical electrical specifications (16 outputs, 40mA per channel, 3V-5.5V supply voltage). The package variant (28-PowerTSSOP) offers improved thermal characteristics. Both are ROHS3 compliant and support the same operating temperature range.

Q: What is the difference between the 28-TSSOP and 28-PowerTSSOP packages?

A: The 28-PowerTSSOP variant includes an exposed thermal pad for improved heat dissipation compared to the standard 28-TSSOP. Both maintain the same 0.173" width and pinout compatibility. The PowerTSSOP variant is preferred for applications with higher thermal loads.

Q: Can I use STP16DPS05XTTR (100mA) instead of TLC5946PWR (40mA)?

A: Yes. The STP16DPS05XTTR provides higher current capability (100mA per channel) while maintaining all other critical parameters: 16 outputs, shift register topology, 3V-5.5V supply voltage, and ROHS3 compliance. Higher current capability does not compromise compatibility; it provides design margin for applications requiring increased drive strength.

Q: Are there package compatibility considerations when switching between 28-pin and 24-pin variants?

A: Yes. The TLC5946PWR uses a 28-TSSOP package, while most substitutes use 24-TSSOP or 24-LSSOP packages. PCB layout modifications are required to accommodate different pin counts and footprints. Verify pinout assignments and signal routing before implementing a package change.

Q: Which substitute offers the best thermal performance?

A: The STP16CPPS05XTTR and STP16DPS05XTTR both feature 24-TSSOP-EP packages with exposed pads, providing superior thermal dissipation compared to standard TSSOP packages. These are recommended for applications with elevated ambient temperatures or high power dissipation requirements.

Q: Do all substitutes support the same operating temperature range?

A: No. The TLC5946PWR and TLC5946PWPR support -40°C to 85°C. The MAX6979AUG+T, STP16CPPS05XTTR, and STP16DPS05XTTR support extended range (-40°C to 125°C). The TB62747AFNG,C8EL supports -40°C to 85°C. Verify temperature requirements for your application before selection.

Q: Are all substitute parts currently in active production?

A: Yes. All identified substitutes have Active product status. The original TLC5946PWR is in Last Time Buy status, making transition to an active equivalent necessary for long-term supply assurance.