In designs that use LEDs, an 8-bit shift register makes it possible to use a smaller, less expensive microcontroller to drive the LEDs. The shift register provides I/O expansion, so the design can use an MCU with a lower pin count, and that can reduce size and lower cost. With a single 74HC595 shift register, just three MCU control pins can control up to eight LEDs. Cascading several 74HC595 registers ups that number to 16 or 24.

Adding open-drain outputs to the shift register creates a single-chip solution that eliminates the need for external drivers. Nexperia NPIC6C series of LED drivers from NXP combines a shift register functions, similar to a 74HC595, with eight high-voltage (HV) MOSFET drivers. Replacing the 74HC595 with an NPIC6C LED driver reduces the BOM and adds features like current-limiting circuitry and thermal protection.

• Easy I/O expansion with open-drain outputs
• Combination shift register and HV MOSFET drivers
• 2.5 V to 5 V logic interfaces
• Open-drain outputs (33 V, 100 mA)
• Current-limiting circuitry
• Thermal protection
• Temp range: -40°C to +125°C
• Automotive variants available

• Portable electronics
• Automotive displays
• Display walls