DC/DC converter suits high ambient temperatures

Linear Technology has announced the H-grade version of the LT3496, which is suitable for automotive and industrial applications that are subjected to high ambient temperatures.

The LT3496 is a 2MHz DC/DC converter designed to operate as a three-channel constant current LED driver.

Each of the device's three channels can drive up to eight 500mA LEDs in series, enabling it to drive up to 24 x 500mA LEDs at efficiencies up to 96 per cent.

The H-grade version operates up to a junction temperature of 150C, compared with the E- and I-grade versions' 125C maximum junction temperature.

All electrical specifications are identical for the E-, I- and H-grade versions.

The H-grade parts are tested and guaranteed to the maximum junction temperature of 150C.

The LT3496 senses output current at the high side of the LED, enabling buck, buck-boost or boost configurations.

Each channel is operated by an independent True Color PWM signal, enabling each to be dimmed independently to ratios as high as 3,000:1.

A fixed frequency, current-mode architecture ensures stable operation over a range of supply and output voltages.

A frequency adjust pin enables the user to program the frequency between 330kHz and 2.1MHz to optimise efficiency while minimising external component size.

The LT3496's thermally enhanced 4 x 5mm QFN package provides a highly compact solution footprint for 50W LED applications.

Back to top