Automotive sequential LED lighting IC reduces size and cost

Maxim Integrated Products MAX25605 sequential LED controller provides easy and cost-effective addition of automotive sequential LED lighting features. It saves development time and lessens design complexity by eradicating the necessity for a microcontroller or software. Also, the device decreases design space by up to 50% and slashes BOM costs by up to 25% compared to the closest competing solution.

Sequential LED lighting features used to be exclusive to high-end vehicle models due to complexness in design and cost controls. The device now simplifies designs, enabling more mid-range and economy models to employ their own animation signatures. It controls LED current up to 750mA versus 100mA for competing solutions, therefore delivering more flexibility in the lighting design. The device combines six switches, manages up to three LEDs per switch and can be daisy-chained up to 16 devices with no need for a microcontroller or software. With this extensive solution, designers can accurately program sequence timing, direction and linear or log dimming, while also quickly detecting fault conditions. This component reduction trims BOM costs and saves time and effort by eradicating the requirement for software.

“LED exterior lighting has long been the province of premium brands and models,” said Edward A. Sanchez, senior analyst at Strategy Analytics. “OEMs know creative use of LED exterior lighting on cars instantly conveys technical sophistication and aspirational style. Sequenced LEDs represent the next evolution in vehicle styling, creating a unique and appealing visual feature that also has compelling safety and functionality benefits.”

“Integration makes the MAX25605 the most compressive sequential turn signal solution in the market,” said Yin Wu, senior business manager, Automotive Business Unit at Maxim Integrated. “In addition, hardware programming simplifies development efforts while managing up to 750mA of LED current allows for much more flexibility to meet lumen requirements.”