TI LED driver provides frequency synchronization, PWM dimming, and thermal foldback

Texas Instruments has introduced a 1.5-A constant-current DC-DC buck converter with frequency synchronization, PWM (pulse-width modulation) dimming, and thermal foldback. The TPS92510 features a wide 3.5- to 60-V input-voltage operating range and integrated MOSFET. Together with TI's WEBENCH LED Architect, the lighting developer can quickly design a power-management circuit to drive a string of up to 17 HB (high-brightness) LEDs at up to 97% power efficiency in automotive, industrial, and general illumination applications. Unlike conventional buck LED drivers, TI's TPS92510 can operate with fixed frequency either by utilizing its internally generated clock or by synchronizing to an external PWM clock source. In multi-string implementations, the use of an external clock simplifies EMI filter design and eliminates beat frequencies that may be visible in the lighting application. Thermal foldback ensures some light output remains even in an LED over-temperature condition, which improves safety in the lighting environment. Key features and benefits of the TPS92510 LED driver

• 3.5 to 60-V input-voltage operating range supports a wide variety of DC LED lighting applications, including area and street lighting.
• Fixed switching frequency range from 100 kHz to 2.5 MHz can be synchronized to optimize for efficiency or implementation size.
• LED thermal foldback with external NTC (negative temperature coefficient) device protects LED array from over-temperature while maintaining reduced light output.
• 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- x 3-mm, 10-pin PowerPad MSOP package, the TPS92510 is priced at US$1.65 each in 1,000-unit quantities. TI Product deeplink