March 16, 2005—STMicroelectronics has introduced a set of single-chip LED driver ICs for industrial lighting, signage, and transport applications for industrial lighting, signage, and transport applications, the company announced.
The Power Logic STPxxC596 and STPxxCL596 family integrates the functions needed to drive LEDs at a constant current, set by an external resistor. Once set, a feedback mechanism monitors the current in one LED or a string of LEDs and dynamically adjusts the output to maintain the programmed current level.
The parts come in eight or 16 output versions, with 3.3V and 5V input voltages and four package types. The parts accept serial data through Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) and use an internal shift register and latches to set the data for each of the LED outputs. An output enable controller can switch each LED on or off, dim it or make it flash. The parts have a clock and data re-synchronization function, which is useful when the devices are cascaded in a daisy chain configuration.
The output current of the parts is programmable from 15VA up to 120mA (with a 5V supply) The device can work with a power supply from 3.3V up to 5V, which means, explains STMicroelectronics, it can be directly controlled by a microprocessor logic circuit without level translators.
STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. For additional information about the company and its products, visit the STMicroelectronics Web site.
