Date: 08/11/2012

LED driver IC with frequency sync, PWM dimming and thermal foldback

Texas Instruments Incorporated has introduced a 1.5-A constant current DC/DC buck converter TPS92510 featuring a wide 3.5-V to 60-V input voltage operating range and integrated MOSFET. Using TI's WEBENCH LED Architect software the lighting developer can quickly design a power management circuit to drive a string of up to 17 high-brightness LEDs at up to 97-percent power efficiency in automotive, industrial and general illumination applications.

TI says unlike conventional buck LED drivers, TI's TPS92510 can operate with fixed frequency either by utilizing its internally-generated clock or via synchronization to an external PWM clock source. In multi-string implementations, the use of an external clock eliminates beat frequencies that may be visible in the lighting application and simplifies EMI filter design. Thermal foldback ensures some light output remains even in an LED over-temperature condition, which improves safety in the lighting environment.

Other features:
Fixed switching frequency range from 100 kHz to 2.5 MHz can be synchronized to optimize for efficiency or solution size.
Dedicated PWM dimming input from 100 Hz to 1 kHz adjusts LED brightness without color shift or perceivable flicker.

Availability, packaging and pricing: The TPS92510 is available in volume now from TI and its authorized distributors. Offered in a 4.9-mm by 3-mm, 10-pin PowerPad MSOP package, the TPS92510 is priced at US$1.65 each in 1,000-unit quantities.