Linear – Synchronous white LED driver provides both LCD backlighting and flash

A synchronous buck-boost DC-DC converter, optimized for driving two banks of white LEDs from a single Li-Ion battery, has been unveiled by Linear Technology. Up to five parallel LEDs can be driven at up to 25mA each for backlighting LCD panels, while two LEDS can be driven at up to 200mA each (or one LED at 400mA) for camera flash applications.

The LTC3452′s synchronous buck-boost topology delivers up to 90% efficiency over the entire usable Li-Ion range of 2.7V to 4.2V, maximizing battery run-time. The combination of a 4mm x 4mm QFN package and a constant 1MHz switching frequency ensures a compact solution footprint required in most handhelds.

The device operates in either synchronous buck, synchronous boost or buck-boost mode, depending on the input voltage and the maximum LED forward voltage drop. Optimum efficiency is achieved by sensing which LED requires the largest forward voltage drop at its programmed current and regulating the common output rail for the lowest dropout. Maximum LED current for each display is programmable with a single external resistor. Dual enable pins allow for PWM brightness control for the TFT display while an independent on/off control is used for the flash output. Other features include: internal soft start, open / shorted LED protection and over-temperature protection. The LTC3452EUF is available from stock in a 4mm x 4mm DFN package, says the company.