The new intelligent 48-channel LED driver with scan matrix
Diodes Incorporated has announced the launch of its new automotive-compliant AL5958Q matrix LED driver, which features a 48-channel constant current source and is capable of up to 32 scans per second
The device is best suited for narrow pixel mini- and micro-LED displays, which require multiple RGB LEDs to produce lighting with data and information. Applications include central information displays, cluster displays, head-up displays, grill and emblem lights, body LED panels, interior lights, and rear lights.
The AL5958Q utilises built-in intelligent matrix display command functions to minimise processing overhead on the local microcontroller. These features encompass automatic black-frame insertion to mitigate blurs caused by scanning switches, reduction of last scan and next scan-line ghost images to stop ghosting from parasitic capacitors, and suppression of short-LED caterpillars.
Open-LED fail lines and staggered current output delay are included to reduce inrush current, as well as grayscale enhancement, a grayscale clock (GCK) watchdog timer, and sleep mode for power savings.
The differentiated capability of the device is emphasised by its integrated 16 N-MOSFET switches and scan control per device, allowing them to support static and dynamic systems, ranging from 0 to 32 scans with a flexible scan sequence to create animated light displays.
Multiple AL5958Q devices can be daisy-chained without limitation to accommodate larger applications. This allows the creation of complex RGB displays while facilitating local dimming.
The AL5958Q's high 16-bit resolution dimming, combined with its RGB support, offers precise brightness control and colour mixing.
The current output for each colour group can be configured through three external current-sensing resistors or by programming three 6-bit global current control registers.
The multi-pulse density modulation (M-PDM) technology can enhance the refresh rate of dynamic scanning systems without increasing the frequency of the GCK, effectively reducing EMI due to high clock frequencies.
The device utilises a comprehensive suite of advanced diagnostic features and protection mechanisms, including error flag registers applied to LED open/short detection, undervoltage lockout (UVLO) protection, and a watchdog timer.
Operating across a -40°C to +125°C ambient temperature range, the AL5958Q is supplied in the wettable W-QFN9090-76/SWP (Type A1) package, meeting the needs of the general automotive market.
