General Description

The MAX6978 serial-interfaced LED driver provides eight open-drain, constant-current sinking LED driver outputs rated at 5.5V. The MAX6978 operates from a 3V to 5.5V supply. The MAX6978 supply and the LEDs’ supply can power up in any order. The constant-current outputs are programmed together to up to 55mA using a single external resistor. The MAX6978 operates with a 25Mb, industry-standard, 4-wire serial interface.

Features

♦ 25Mb Industry-Standard 4-Wire Serial Interface at 5V

♦ 3V to 5.5V Logic Supply

♦ 8 Constant-Current LED Outputs Rated at 5.5V

♦ Up to 55mA Continuous Current per Output

♦ Output Current Programmed by Single Resistor

♦ 3 Current Matching Between Outputs

♦ 6 Current Matching Between ICs

♦ Watchdog Clears Display if Interface Fails

♦ Reports Open-Circuit LED Faults

♦ -40°C to +125°C Temperature Range

Applications

    Variable Message Signs

    Marquee Displays

    Point-of-Order Signs

    Traffic Signs

    Gaming Features

    Architectural Lighting