Maxim Offers 100/200/350mA Linear HB LED Drivers
Maxim Integrated Products introduced the MAX16815/28/35/36 high-voltage, linear high-brightness LED (HB LED) drivers capable of driving a long string of HB LEDs from a 6.5 to 40V input supply. These single-channel devices integrate a pass element with a low, 0.4V (typ) dropout voltage, thus eliminating the need for an external power transistor. Providing ±5% accurate LED current control, the pass element is said to ensure excellent brightness matching while reducing the size, complexity, and cost of the total LED driver solution.
Additionally, these devices utilize an external resistor placed in series with the LEDs to adjust the output current from 35 to 100mA (MAX16815), 35 to 200mA (MAX16828), or 35 to 350mA (MAX16835/MAX16836). To simplify dimming control, these devices feature a PWM LED dimming input. These LED drivers are suitable for a wide range of applications including automotive map, courtesy, dome, instrument-cluster, and RCL lighting; emergency warning lights; signage and indicator lighting; and architectural and ambient lighting.
Designed for harsh automotive environments, the MAX16815/MAX16828/MAX16835/MAX16836 protection features include short-circuit and thermal protection. A +5V regulated output that provides up to 4mA load current is also included. Additionally, these devices can implement LED current thermal foldback for the driver circuit with a single negative-temperature-coefficient (NTC) thermistor and a minimum number of external components.
The MAX16815/MAX16828 are available in a thermally enhanced, 3 x 3mm, 6-pin TDFN package with exposed pad, and the MAX16835/MAX16836 are available in a 16-pin TQFN package with exposed pad. All devices are fully specified over the -40 to +125°C automotive temperature range. Prices start at $0.48 (1000-up, FOB USA).
