20-Output, 76V, Serial-Interfaced VFD Tube Drivers

 

Part Number	Replacement	Explanation

Description

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The MAX6921/MAX6931 are 20-output, 76V, vacuum-fluorescent display (VFD) tube drivers that interface a multiplexed VFD tube to a VFD controller, such as the MAX6850–MAX6853, or to a microcontroller. The MAX6921/MAX6931 are also ideal for driving static VFD tubes or telecom relays.

Data is input using an industry standard 4-wire serial interface (CLOCK, DATA, LOAD, BLANK), compatibile with either Maxim's or industry-standard VFD driver and controller.

For easy display control, the active-high BLANK input forces all driver outputs low, turning the display off, and automatically puts the MAX6921/MAX6931 into shutdown mode. Display intensity can also be controlled by directly pulse-width modulating the BLANK input.

The MAX6921 has a serial interface data output, DOUT, allowing any number of devices to be cascaded on the same serial interface.

The MAX6931 has a negative supply voltage input, V_SS, allowing the drivers' output swing to be made bipolar to simplify filament biasing in many applications.

The MAX6921 is available in 28-pin TSSOP, SO, and PLCC packages. The MAX6931 is available in a 28-pin TSSOP package.

Maxim also offers 12-output VFD drivers (MAX6920) and 32-output VFD drivers (MAX6922/MAX6932).

MAX6921, MAX6931: Typical Operating Circuit Enlarge+

Key Features

• 5MHz Industry-Standard 4-Wire Serial Interface
• 3V to 5.5V Logic Supply Range
• 8V to 76V Grid/Anode Supply Range
• -11V to 0V Filament Bias Supply (MAX6931 Only)
• Push-Pull CMOS High-Voltage Outputs
• Outputs can Source 40mA, Sink 4mA Continuously
• Outputs can Source 75mA Repetitive Pulses
• Outputs can be Paralleled for Higher Current Drive
• Any Output can be Used as a Grid or an Anode Driver
• Blank Input Simplifies PWM Intensity Control
• Small 28-Pin TSSOP Package
• -40°C to +125°C Temperature Range

Applications/Uses

• Automotive
• Avionics
• Gaming Machines
• Industrial Control
• Industrial Weighing
• Instrumentation
• Security
• Telecom
• VFD Modules
• White Goods