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