Date: 15/11/2010

Non-dimmable CFL driver ICs from NXP for 230V and 110V fluorescent lamps

NXP Semiconductors N.V. has released the UBA2211, non-dimmable CFL driver ICs integrated with CFL driver along with a current controlled preheat function for 230V and 110V fluorescent lamps. NXP says these devices extend CFL lifetimes in the range of 12,000 to 15,000 hours. NXP has also announced the availability of the UBA2024B, its first CFL driver with integrated switches tailored for the 110V market. NXP call the technology behind these chips as "GreenChip"

"As incandescent lamps are phased out around the world and with the recent EU ban on 75W incandescent bulbs in effect, the time is now for CFLs to prove they can offer better quality of light at lower costs. NXP driver ICs such as the UBA2211 offer breakthrough quality, performance and features that enable CFL manufacturers to match consumer expectations for quality lighting in the home," said Jacques le Berre, director of marketing and business development, Lighting Solutions, NXP Semiconductors. "As one of the first semiconductor companies to recognize the growing importance of energy-efficient lighting, NXP's commitment to transform the lighting industry is a natural extension of its High Performance Mixed Signal strategy. Working together with our customers, NXP is committed to proving that with GreenChip technology, fluorescent lamps can light up the hearts and minds of consumers around the globe."

The UBA2211 integrates the adjustable current controlled preheat mode technology, a key requirement in the EU directive, which enables the preheat time to be set and facilitates in achieving extended lifetime of the CFLs. NXP claims with its exceptionally small form factor, the UBA2211 significantly reduces the Bill of Materials (BOM) for manufacturers, thereby enabling volume production of high quality CFLs.

The UBA2211 family includes:
UBA2211: generic controller for 230V / 110V markets driving external power switches
UBA2211A: 230V for CFL lamp power up to 11W
UBA2211B: 230V for CFL lamp power up to 18W
UBA2211C: 230V for CFL lamp power up to 23W

Key features GreenChip technology listed by NXP includes:
Fast start-up with quick start for faster light output run-up
Better energy efficiency with an average 5 percent higher efficiency
Longer lifetime preheat feature that preserves the life of the lamp burner; while standard lamps based on discrete components reach an average 4,000 to 6,000 hours, NXP IC based lamps demonstrate lifetime performance in the range of 12,000 to 15,000 hours