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PCA9685PW

PCA9685PW

NXP
Wide-used 16-channel PWM LED driver for multi-channel dimming and PWM-based LED control.
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Overview

The PCA9685PW is an I2C-controlled 16-channel LED controller optimized for Red/Green/Blue/Amber (RGBA) color mixing applications. Each of the 16 outputs features its own 12-bit resolution (4096 steps) fixed-frequency individual PWM controller with a programmable frequency from 24 Hz to 1526 Hz.

Why Choose This Part

The 12-bit resolution allows for very fine dimming increments, while the built-in oscillator eliminates the need for external clock components. Its 25mA source/sink capability per channel and 5.5V tolerance make it highly compatible with various LED configurations and logic levels.

Applications

RGB/RGBA LED Backlighting
Precise color mixing and dimming for consumer electronics and architectural lighting using 16 independent channels.
Servo Control in Robotics
Generating multiple synchronous PWM signals for controlling small RC servos in hexapods or robotic arms.
LCD Backlight Dimming
Providing uniform brightness control across multiple LED strings for large display panels.
Smart Home Status Indicators
Driving complex visual feedback patterns on multi-LED user interface panels via a simple I2C bus.

Getting Started

Engineers typically evaluate this part using the Adafruit 16-Channel 12-bit PWM/Servo Driver breakout board. Integration involves connecting to an I2C master and using the programmable OE (Output Enable) pin for global PWM dimming or emergency shut-off.

PCA9685 Family

Also available as: PCA9685
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