I'm pretty sure I just blew my first chip. I was trying to use a 12V supply, so I'm a little confused.
In the datasheet, it says that the input voltage should be –0.3V to 6V, but the output voltage range can be –0.3V to 18V. So I saw smoke and the whole deal when I connected 12V to VCC.
After thinking about this a bunch, I think I get it. The chip itself will get the 6V, but since the LEDs are connected to a positive line, that positive line can be a different voltage.
I will try using a voltage regulator on my 12V to make sure the chip is powered with less than 6V, while powering the LEDs with the 12V.