The TPS68401EVM is an evaluation board to assist in evaluating the TPS68401 IC as a multifunction LED
driver.
The TPS68401 device is an advanced lighting management unit for handheld devices. It has three
independent channels optimized for driving RGB LEDs. The built-in fractional charge pump boosts the
input voltage to power the LEDs at low input voltage. Channel one can optionally be supplied directly from
the battery voltage to reduce power consumption and improve efficiency.
At the heart of the device is a programmable state machine which executes a lighting program consisting
of up to 16 instructions per channel. Once the program is loaded through the I2C™ interface the device is
fully independent from the main processor resulting in significant system-level power savings. The device
can issue an interrupt to the main processor via the INT pin. The TRIG I/O allows synchronization
between multiple devices. A general-purpose output pin is provided which is addressable through the
serial interface. In addition, the INT pin can also be configured as general-purpose output.
The following related documents are available for download through the Texas Instruments web site
(http://www.ti.com) or via the links below.
The Texas Instruments TPS68401 evaluation module (EVM) helps designers to evaluate TPS68401
advanced lighting management unit for handheld devices. These devices have three independent
channels optimized for driving RGB LEDs. The built-in fractional charge pump boosts the input voltage to
power the LEDs at low input voltage. Channel one can optionally be supplied directly from the battery
voltage to reduce power consumption and improve efficiency.
At the heart of the device is a programmable state machine which executes a lighting program consisting
of up to 16 instructions per channel. Once the program is loaded through the I2C interface the device is
fully independent from the main processor resulting in significant system-level power savings. The device
can issue an interrupt to the main processor via the INT pin.
The TRIG I/O allows synchronization between multiple devices. A general-purpose output pin is provided
which is addressable through the serial interface. In addition, the INT pin can also be configured as
general-purpose output.
The EVM contains four independent TPS68401 devices that can be programmed and controlled trough a
GUI.
1.2Applications
•LED control for portable applications
•Accent lighting (mood, personalization, etc.)
•Function indication (charge, messages, etc.)
•Keypad illumination/backlight (white or RGB)
•Display backlight
INTRODUCTION
1.3Features
•Multifunction LED driver with three independent channels
•Integrated high efficiency 1x/1.5x charge pump with automatic or manual gain change
•3 x 25.5-mA total output current
•Three independent program execution engines (3 x 16 instructions)
•8-bit PWM with exponential control option
•8-bit current DAC control
•200-nA typical shutdown current
•Automatic power-save mode
•Autonomous operation without external control
•Trigger I/O for synchronizing multiple devices
•One or two general purpose output controlled via serial interface
The system consists of the following components:
Host (PC)—A Windows®personal computer (PC) – used to configure and monitor the TPS68401EVM.
The GUI operates on the host. For the GUI to execute properly, the host needs to have the correct
LabViewTM RunTimeTM version. If the host doesn’t have the correct RunTimeTM version it will be
prompted during GUI installation. More information in GUI installation section.
USB-to-I2C Adapter—TPS68401EVM uses the I2C interface for communication with the host. The TI-
supplied USB-to-I2C adapter does the appropriate conversion so the host can use the USB
interface for communication. USB-to-I2C adapter has a 3.3-V supply rail which is used to supply the
EVM so no external power supply is needed.
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Figure 2. System Block Diagram
TPS68401EVM— EVM board that houses the TPS68401 and peripheral components.
The evaluation module is designed to provide access to the features of the TPS65281. Some
modifications can be made to this module to test performance at different input and output voltages,
current and switching frequency. Please contact TI Field Applications Group for advice on these matters.
The TPS68401EVM allows evaluation of the TPS68401 Advanced Lighting Management Unit for handheld
devices. TPS68401 has three independent channels optimized for driving RGB LEDs. The built-in
fractional charge pump boosts the input voltage to power the LEDs at low input voltage. At the heart of the
device is a programmable state machine which executes a lighting program consisting of up to 16
instructions per channel. Once the program is loaded through the I2C interface the device is fully
independent from the main processor resulting in significant system-level power savings. The TRIG I/O
allows synchronization between multiple devices.
The TPS68401EVM can be configured and monitored through a Windows GUI application running on a
PC. The GUI communicates with the TPS68401EVM through the USB Interface Adapter (included with
EVM kit), which acts as an I2C master for the board. TPS68401EVM has four TPS68401 devices and
those can be separately programmed through the GUI.
The TPS68401EVM provides the following functionality:
•Programming of the four different TPS68401 devices (all four devices have different I2C addresses
which can be selected from the GUI).
•Driving either RGB or white LED’s (see jumper setting).
•32-kHz oscillator on board is used as an external clock the TPS68401 devices on board.
•Trigger button to enable synchronous program execution between several devices.
•Indicator LEDs for all four general purpose outputs (GPOs).
•Standard 400-kHz I2C communication via I2C connector to USB adapter for connection to a PC.
•Board can be supplied through the 3.3 V from the USB adapter or from an external power source (see
jumper setting).
HARDWARE OVERVIEW
4.1Connectors
The TPS68401EVM has connectors for power and I2C communications. J1 provides a possibility to power
EVM from an external power supply (between 2.7 V and 5.5 V). USB adapter Interface Adapter has 3.3-V
power output that can be used to power the board so there is no need for external power source.
P1 header provides the I2C communication interface to the TPS68401EVM. The USB Interface Adapter
includes a ribbon cable that can be connected to P1. The adapter is connected to a Windows-based PC.
CAUTION
WhenusinganexternalpowersupplyfortheTPS68401EVM,the
recommended supply range for TPS68401 is from 2.7 V to 5.5 V.
Connecting the ribbon cable to TPS68401EVM pin one is marked on the EVM and with the red stripe in the ribbon
cable.
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Figure 8. Ribbon Cable Connection
4.2Jumpers
The TPS68401EVM operation can be configured using jumpers:
•Board power from external supply or USB Interface Adapter
•Driving RGB or white LEDs
NO.FUNCTIONDEFAULT SETTING
Board power supply selection. Connect to pins 1-2 when using 3.3 V from the USB InterfacePins 1-2 (Power from USB Interface
P2
Adapter and pins 2-3 if external power supply is used.Adapter)
RGB or white LEDs are connected. Connect to pins 1-2 if RGB LEDs are used and 2-3 when
P3using white LEDs. If using U4 to generate PWM signals for other devices through P5Pins 1-2 (RGB LEDs connected)
connector pin 2-3 need to be connected.
4.3Test points
The TPS68401EVM provides test points that can be used for evaluation. Important voltages can be
monitored with a meter through the use of the test points.
4.4EVM Operation
The TPS68401EVM operates from either USB Interface Adapter (through P1) or External Power Supply
(through J1). Jumper P2 can be used to select the power source.
1. Connect the USB Interface Adapter to the TPS68401EVM P1 connector using the ribbon cable
provided.
2. Plug the appropriate end of the USB cable into the adapter and the other end into your PC.
Table 2. TPS68401EVM Jumpers
NOTE: If using an external power supply connect jumper’s pins 2-3 and use J1 to connect the power
The TPS68401EVM comes with a Windows application that can be used to configure and monitor the
EVM. The GUI can be used to configure all available options of the EVM such as programming and
current settings.
The following section explains the procedure for installing the graphical user interface (GUI) onto a
Windows based PC. A USB interface adapter is required to connect the EVM to a PC and should be
provided with the EVM.
Additional interfaces can be ordered through http://focus.ti.com/docs/toolsw/folders/print/usb-to-gpio.html
5.1Software Installation Instructions
To install the EVM software follow the steps outlined:
1. Double-click on the setup.exe file in the \Installer\Volume\ directory.
2. Follow the prompts to finish the installation.
3. At the end of the installation, a reboot of your computer may be required.
SOFTWARE
Figure 9. setup.exe. File Location
I2C read/write commands may be made using the provided software. A dark grey block means the bit is
high. A white block means the bit is low. A write may be performed simply by clicking on an individual bit
or an entire register may be written by using the write command on the left side of the GUI.
Texas Instruments (TI) provides the enclosed Evaluation Board/Kit/Module (EVM) under the following conditions:
The user assumes all responsibility and liability for proper and safe handling of the goods. Further, the user indemnifies TI from all claims
arising from the handling or use of the goods.
Should this evaluation board/kit not meet the specifications indicated in the User’s Guide, the board/kit may be returned within 30 days from
the date of delivery for a full refund. THE FOREGOING LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE EXCLUSIVE WARRANTY MADE BY SELLER TO
BUYER AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED, IMPLIED, OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE. EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT OF THE INDEMNITY SET FORTH
ABOVE, NEITHER PARTY SHALL BE LIABLE TO THE OTHER FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES.
Please read the User's Guide and, specifically, the Warnings and Restrictions notice in the User's Guide prior to handling the product. This
notice contains important safety information about temperatures and voltages. For additional information on TI's environmental and/or safety
programs, please visit www.ti.com/esh or contact TI.
No license is granted under any patent right or other intellectual property right of TI covering or relating to any machine, process, or
combination in which such TI products or services might be or are used. TI currently deals with a variety of customers for products, and
therefore our arrangement with the user is not exclusive. TI assumes no liability for applications assistance, customer product design,
software performance, or infringement of patents or services described herein.
REGULATORY COMPLIANCE INFORMATION
As noted in the EVM User’s Guide and/or EVM itself, this EVM and/or accompanying hardware may or may not be subject to the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) and Industry Canada (IC) rules.
For EVMs not subject to the above rules, this evaluation board/kit/module is intended for use for ENGINEERING DEVELOPMENT,
DEMONSTRATION OR EVALUATION PURPOSES ONLY and is not considered by TI to be a finished end product fit for general consumer
use. It generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and has not been tested for compliance with the limits of computing
devices pursuant to part 15 of FCC or ICES-003 rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against radio frequency
interference. Operation of the equipment may cause interference with radio communications, in which case the user at his own expense will
be required to take whatever measures may be required to correct this interference.
General Statement for EVMs including a radio
User Power/Frequency Use Obligations: This radio is intended for development/professional use only in legally allocated frequency and
power limits. Any use of radio frequencies and/or power availability of this EVM and its development application(s) must comply with local
laws governing radio spectrum allocation and power limits for this evaluation module. It is the user’s sole responsibility to only operate this
radio in legally acceptable frequency space and within legally mandated power limitations. Any exceptions to this are strictly prohibited and
unauthorized by Texas Instruments unless user has obtained appropriate experimental/development licenses from local regulatory
authorities, which is responsibility of user including its acceptable authorization.
For EVMs annotated as FCC – FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION Part 15 Compliant
Caution
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause
harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the
equipment.
FCC Interference Statement for Class A EVM devices
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to
cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
FCC Interference Statement for Class B EVM devices
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
For EVMs annotated as IC – INDUSTRY CANADA Compliant
This Class A or B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
Concerning EVMs including radio transmitters
This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this
device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired
operation of the device.
Concerning EVMs including detachable antennas
Under Industry Canada regulations, this radio transmitter may only operate using an antenna of a type and maximum (or lesser) gain
approved for the transmitter by Industry Canada. To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should
be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that necessary for successful communication.
This radio transmitter has been approved by Industry Canada to operate with the antenna types listed in the user guide with the maximum
permissible gain and required antenna impedance for each antenna type indicated. Antenna types not included in this list, having a gain
greater than the maximum gain indicated for that type, are strictly prohibited for use with this device.
Cet appareil numérique de la classe A ou B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.
Les changements ou les modifications pas expressément approuvés par la partie responsable de la conformité ont pu vider l’autorité de
l'utilisateur pour actionner l'équipement.
Concernant les EVMs avec appareils radio
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L'exploitation est
autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l'appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout
brouillage radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
Concernant les EVMs avec antennes détachables
Conformément à la réglementation d'Industrie Canada, le présent émetteur radio peut fonctionner avec une antenne d'un type et d'un gain
maximal (ou inférieur) approuvé pour l'émetteur par Industrie Canada. Dans le but de réduire les risques de brouillage radioélectrique à
l'intention des autres utilisateurs, il faut choisir le type d'antenne et son gain de sorte que la puissance isotrope rayonnée équivalente
(p.i.r.e.) ne dépasse pas l'intensité nécessaire à l'établissement d'une communication satisfaisante.
Le présent émetteur radio a été approuvé par Industrie Canada pour fonctionner avec les types d'antenne énumérés dans le manuel
d’usage et ayant un gain admissible maximal et l'impédance requise pour chaque type d'antenne. Les types d'antenne non inclus dans
cette liste, ou dont le gain est supérieur au gain maximal indiqué, sont strictement interdits pour l'exploitation de l'émetteur.
【【Important Notice for Users of this Product in Japan】】
This development kit is NOT certified as Confirming to Technical Regulations of Radio Law of Japan
If you use this product in Japan, you are required by Radio Law of Japan to follow the instructions below with respect to this product:
1. Use this product in a shielded room or any other test facility as defined in the notification #173 issued by Ministry of Internal Affairs and
Communications on March 28, 2006, based on Sub-section 1.1 of Article 6 of the Ministry’s Rule for Enforcement of Radio Law of
Japan,
2. Use this product only after you obtained the license of Test Radio Station as provided in Radio Law of Japan with respect to this
product, or
3. Use of this product only after you obtained the Technical Regulations Conformity Certification as provided in Radio Law of Japan with
respect to this product. Also, please do not transfer this product, unless you give the same notice above to the transferee. Please note
that if you could not follow the instructions above, you will be subject to penalties of Radio Law of Japan.
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For Feasibility Evaluation Only, in Laboratory/Development Environments. Unless otherwise indicated, this EVM is not a finished
electrical equipment and not intended for consumer use. It is intended solely for use for preliminary feasibility evaluation in
laboratory/development environments by technically qualified electronics experts who are familiar with the dangers and application risks
associated with handling electrical mechanical components, systems and subsystems. It should not be used as all or part of a finished end
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Your Sole Responsibility and Risk. You acknowledge, represent and agree that:
1. You have unique knowledge concerning Federal, State and local regulatory requirements (including but not limited to Food and Drug
Administration regulations, if applicable) which relate to your products and which relate to your use (and/or that of your employees,
affiliates, contractors or designees) of the EVM for evaluation, testing and other purposes.
2. You have full and exclusive responsibility to assure the safety and compliance of your products with all such laws and other applicable
regulatory requirements, and also to assure the safety of any activities to be conducted by you and/or your employees, affiliates,
contractors or designees, using the EVM. Further, you are responsible to assure that any interfaces (electronic and/or mechanical)
between the EVM and any human body are designed with suitable isolation and means to safely limit accessible leakage currents to
minimize the risk of electrical shock hazard.
3. You will employ reasonable safeguards to ensure that your use of the EVM will not result in any property damage, injury or death, even
if the EVM should fail to perform as described or expected.
4. You will take care of proper disposal and recycling of the EVM’s electronic components and packing materials.
Certain Instructions. It is important to operate this EVM within TI’s recommended specifications and environmental considerations per the
user guidelines. Exceeding the specified EVM ratings (including but not limited to input and output voltage, current, power, and
environmental ranges) may cause property damage, personal injury or death. If there are questions concerning these ratings please contact
a TI field representative prior to connecting interface electronics including input power and intended loads. Any loads applied outside of the
specified output range may result in unintended and/or inaccurate operation and/or possible permanent damage to the EVM and/or
interface electronics. Please consult the EVM User's Guide prior to connecting any load to the EVM output. If there is uncertainty as to the
load specification, please contact a TI field representative. During normal operation, some circuit components may have case temperatures
greater than 60°C as long as the input and output are maintained at a normal ambient operating temperature. These components include
but are not limited to linear regulators, switching transistors, pass transistors, and current sense resistors which can be identified using the
EVM schematic located in the EVM User's Guide. When placing measurement probes near these devices during normal operation, please
be aware that these devices may be very warm to the touch. As with all electronic evaluation tools, only qualified personnel knowledgeable
in electronic measurement and diagnostics normally found in development environments should use these EVMs.
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