STMicroelectronics Releases Backlight Driver for High-Tech Handhelds

STMicroelectronics introduced a new IC that is said to simplify the design of power-efficient LCD and keypad backlights comprising white LEDs.

Backlights built with white LEDs, instead of traditional fluorescent tubes, consume less power enabling longer battery life for portable devices such as smartphones, games and GPS terminals. ST’s new chip, the STLA02, is said to improve backlight design further by performing high-side current sensing, which allows the backlight negative (low-side) terminal to be connected directly to ground with no need for a low-side sensing connection. This is said to simplify pc-board design, reduce wired connections to the backlight, and increase system reliability.

The STLA02 can drive up to six LEDs and can operate from a supply voltage as low as 2.5V, allowing its use in systems powered by only a single lithium cell. The maximum input voltage of 18V also allows use with a variety of other battery types.

Key features of the STLA02 include: boost (step-up) dc-dc converter topology; a battery supply voltage range of 2.5 to 18V; a maximum LED driving voltage of 27V; an output current: of 20mA per LED; a switching frequency of 2.3MHz; a PWM dimming range of 300:1; enable pin with fast response due to current-mode regulation; and built-in over-temperature and over-voltage protection.

The STLA02 is in full production in the 6-lead DFN6 package, priced from $0.892 for orders over 1000 units. Alternative pricing options may be available for larger quantities.