Date: 08/10/2009

A 1.5A White LED flash driver IC from Maxim for 5-MP camera phones

Maxim has introduced the MAX8834, a 1.5A white-LED (WLED) flash driver IC that packs an I²C interface, a 5V PWM DC-DC step-up converter, two high-current regulators for movie and flash lighting, and a low-current regulator for driving an indicator LED, two switching-frequency options for high efficiency (2MHz option, up to 95% at full load) or small total solution size (4MHz option, 16.5mm² PCB area). The MAX8834 is suitable for 5-megapixel cameras in smartphones, mobile handsets, PDAs, digital cameras, and camcorders applications.

The MAX8834 includes a MAXFLASH function, which allows to program a critical input supply voltage and reduces the flash current when the critical threshold has been reached. This feature prevents system lockup or shutdown if a flash picture is taken when the battery is near the system cut-off voltage. A GSM blank function lowers the input supply current to a user-programmable level during a PA transmit event, maximizing the flash current for any given operating condition.

The other key features include,

Operating input voltage range from 2.5V to 5.5V
Optional remote temperature sensor interface
I²C-programmable safety and watchdog timers
Automatic open/short LED detection
Fault monitors can be read through the I²C interface to facilitate automated factory testing
Thermal shutdown protection
< 1µA shutdown current

Operating temperature range: -40°C to +85°C

Package: 2.5mm x 2.0mm x 0.65mm, 20-bump WLP package
Price: Starts at $1.65 for 1k pieces
Availability: Samples and evaluation kits are available upon request

For more details visit www.maxim-ic.com

Editorial product rating: Average