Overview
The TCA6507, produced by Texas Instruments, is a low-voltage 7-bit I2C and SMBus LED driver designed for controlling and managing LED outputs with advanced features such as intensity control and shutdown. This device is optimized for use in low-power applications and can interface with next-generation microprocessors and microcontrollers. The TCA6507 handles pulse width modulation (PWM) logic, allowing the processor to focus on more critical tasks, thus enhancing system efficiency.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Min | Typ | Max | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VCC Supply Voltage | 1.65 | 3.6 | V | |
| VIH High-Level Input Voltage | 1.3 (VCC ≤ 1.95 V) | 0.7 × VCC (VCC ≤ 3.6 V) | V | |
| VIL Low-Level Input Voltage | -0.5 | 0.3 × VCC (VCC ≤ 3.6 V) | V | |
| VO Output Voltage | 0 | 5.5 | V | |
| IOL Low-Level Output Current | 40 mA | mA | ||
| TA Operating Free-Air Temperature | -40 | 85 | °C |
Key Features
- Seven LED driver outputs with modes: ON, OFF, blinking, and fading at programmable rates.
- Open-drain outputs capable of sinking current up to 40 mA for LEDs.
- Two independent banks of LED drivers (BANK0 and BANK1) with separate control for dimming rate and intensity.
- Widely programmable blink rates, fade-ON and fade-OFF rates, and maximum intensity.
- Supports hot insertion and voltage-level translation for interfacing with low-voltage microprocessors.
- Internal oscillator supporting PWM logic for efficient LED control.
- Master intensity level (ambient light detection - ALD) that can override individual LED intensities.
Applications
- LED lighting systems in consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial applications.
- General-purpose parallel output expansion for microcontrollers.
- Display backlighting and indicator lights in various devices.
- Low-power LED control in battery-operated devices.
Q & A
- What is the TCA6507?
The TCA6507 is a low-voltage 7-bit I2C and SMBus LED driver with intensity control and shutdown features.
- What are the operating voltage ranges for the TCA6507?
The TCA6507 operates with a supply voltage (VCC) ranging from 1.65 V to 3.6 V.
- How many LED driver outputs does the TCA6507 have?
The TCA6507 has seven LED driver outputs.
- What are the modes of operation for the LED outputs?
The LED outputs can be configured to be ON, OFF, blinking, or fading at programmable rates.
- Can the TCA6507 drive LEDs directly?
Yes, the TCA6507 has open-drain outputs that can directly drive LEDs up to 40 mA.
- How are the LED banks controlled?
The LEDs are divided into two independent banks (BANK0 and BANK1), each with separate control for dimming rate and intensity.
- What is the purpose of the internal oscillator in the TCA6507?
The internal oscillator supports PWM logic, enabling efficient control of the LEDs without heavily involving the microcontroller.
- Can the TCA6507 be used in low-power applications?
Yes, the TCA6507 is optimized for low-power applications and can interface with next-generation low-voltage microprocessors.
- What is the ambient light detection (ALD) feature?
The ALD feature allows for a master intensity level that can override the individual intensity settings of the LEDs.
- Is the TCA6507 suitable for hot insertion?
Yes, the TCA6507 supports hot insertion, making it convenient for use in various applications.
