Linear HB LED Drivers

Maxim introduces the MAX16815/MAX16828/MAX16835/MAX16836 high-voltage, linear high-brightness LED (HB LED) drivers capable of driving HB LEDs from a 6.5V to 40V input supply. These single-channel devices integrate a pass element with 0.4V (typ) dropout voltage, thus eliminating the need for an external power transistor. Providing ±5% accurate LED current control, the pass element ensures brightness matching.

 Additionally, these devices utilize an external resistor placed in series with the LEDs to adjust the output current from 35mA to 100mA (MAX16815), 35mA to 200mA (MAX16828), or 35mA to 350mA (MAX16835/MAX16836). To simplify dimming control, these devices feature a PWM LED dimming input.

 MAX16815/MAX16828/MAX16835/MAX16836 provide protection features, including 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.

 The MAX16815/MAX16828 are available in a thermally enhanced, 3mm 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 specified over the -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range. Prices start at $0.48 (1000-up, FOB USA).