High-Voltage, Linear High-Brightness LED Driver with Open-LED Fault Detect

Active: In Production.

The MAX16839 programmable current regulator operates from a 5V to 40V input voltage range and features an open-drain, constant-current-sink output capable of sinking up to 100mA. The MAX16839 is well suited for automotive applications and other applications that require a general-purpose linear LED driver. The device directly withstands automotive load-dump events of up to 45V.

An on-board pass element minimizes external component count while providing ±5% output current accuracy. The MAX16839 includes a dimming input that controls the duty cycle of the output current, allowing a wide LED dimming range. In addition, the dimming input functions as an on/off control of the output current. In multiple LED-string applications, the dimming input synchronizes the LED current-sink turn-on, ensuring simultaneous brightness in LED strings.

Additional features include thermal and open-LED protection and an open-LED fault-detection output. In multiple LED string applications where all FLTS pins are connected together, an open-LED detection in one LED string turns off all the strings simultaneously. Open-LED protection also features fault memory, to avoid LED flashing during subsequent power-up cycles.

The MAX16839 is available in thermally enhanced, 6–pin TDFN-EP and 8-pin SO-EP packages and is specified over the -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range.

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