Diodes Incorporated (Nasdaq: DIOD) has introduced a new automotive-compliant LED driver designed to accelerate the adoption of dynamic lighting systems in vehicles.
The AL5958Q is a 48-channel constant-current source driver capable of supporting up to 32 scanning functions, making it suitable for high-density mini- and micro-LED applications. The device is intended for use in central information displays, cluster displays, head-up displays, as well as grille, emblem, interior, and rear lighting systems.
By integrating intelligent matrix display command functions, the AL5958Q reduces reliance on the vehicle’s microcontroller for processing. The device automatically inserts black frames to address scanning blur, minimizes ghost images caused by parasitic capacitors, and includes safeguards against short-LED artifacts. Additional features include fail detection for open LEDs, current staggering to manage inrush power, grayscale enhancement for low-brightness performance, and a power-saving sleep mode.
The driver incorporates 16 integrated N-MOSFET switches with scan control, supporting both static and dynamic lighting configurations. Multiple units can be daisy-chained to build larger LED arrays, enabling more complex designs and local dimming capabilities.
With 16-bit dimming resolution and RGB color mixing support, the AL5958Q offers precise brightness and color control. Current output can be configured using external resistors or programmed via global current control registers. The device also employs multiplex-pulse density modulation (M-PDM) technology, which increases refresh rates in scanning systems without requiring higher grayscale clock frequencies—helping reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Diagnostic and protection mechanisms are built in, including error flag registers for LED open and short detection, undervoltage lockout (UVLO), and a watchdog timer. The product operates across a temperature range of -40°C to +125°C and is supplied in a wettable flank W-QFN9090-76/SWP package designed for automotive use.
Priced at $1.60 per unit in 2,500-piece volumes, the AL5958Q is positioned for mainstream automotive adoption. A standard compliance version, the AL5958, is also available for industrial and commercial applications.
