STMicroelectronics Intros STCF02 Power Supply IC

STMicroelectronics Inc. (ST, Geneva, Switzerland) introduced a new power-supply IC, the STCF02, that is designed to drive high-current white LEDs used for flash illumination in mobile imaging equipment such as cameras for mobile phones, digital still cameras, and PDAs. The device extends battery life due to the low standby current of less than 1 µA that it draws during shutdown mode. The STCF02 also incorporates comprehensive protection circuitry, including, the ability to automatically sense and respond to excessive LED temperature.

The STCF02 is a high-efficiency (85 percent, typical), buck-boost converter that is able to deliver a controlled current to a single high-power flash white LED. The STCF02 controls the current by automatically changing the operating mode between buck (step down) and boost (step up) to accommodate the forward voltage of the white LED according to the battery voltage level. The device uses a pulse-width modulation control scheme with a switching frequency of 1.8 MHz, and provides a regulated output voltage ranging from 2.5 V to 5.3 V powered from a single lithium-ion battery.

The STCF02 will be priced at $1.00 in 5-piece to 10,000-piece quantities. Samples are currently available, with volume production imminent.