The MAX6979 includes a fail-safe feature for safetyrelated applications, which blanks the display if the serial interface fails. If the serial interface becomes inactive for more than 1s, all driver output latches are automatically cleared. This turns off all LEDs connected to the outputs. The shift register data is not disturbed. The outputs remain off until the driver output latches are updated with data turning them on, so recovery is automatic if the transmission failure is temporary. The watchdog function requires no software change to the application driving the MAX6979. The MAX6979 uses the industry-standard shift-registerplus-latch-type serial interface. The driver accepts data shifted into a 16-bit shift register using data input DIN and clock input CLK. Input data appears at the output DOUT 16 clock cycles later to allow cascading of multiple MAX6979s. The latch-enable input, LE, loads the 16 bits of shift-register data into a 16-bit output latch to set which LEDs are on and which are off. The outputenable input, OE, gates all 16 outputs on and off, and is fast enough to be used as a PWM input for LED intensity control. The MAX6979 is one of a family of 12 shift-register-pluslatch-type LED drivers. The family includes 8-port and 16-port types, with 5.5V- or 36V-rated LED outputs, with and without open-circuit LED detection and watchdog. All versions operate from a 3V to 5.5V supply, and are specified over the -40C to +125C temperature range.