ST's New White LED Driver Comes Out

STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor supplier that spans multiple electronic applications, has expanded its lineup of high-efficiency mobile device solutions with the new STLA02 white light emitting diode (LED) driver chip. The new product can simplify the design of backlight circuits for energy-efficient LCD monitors and keyboards.

Compared to traditional backlighting solutions for fluorescent tubes, white LED backlights can reduce power consumption and extend the battery life of portable devices such as smart phones, game consoles, and navigation devices. STMicroelectronics' new STLA02 has a high-side current detection function that further improves the backlight circuit design. The backlight negative (low-side) terminal block can be directly connected to the ground without the need to connect the low-side current-sensing circuit. Printed circuit board design reduces the number of backlight connections and improves overall system reliability.

The STLA02 can drive up to six LEDs with a minimum operating supply voltage of 2.5 volts and can be used in a system powered by a lithium battery; the maximum operating voltage is 18 volts, enabling new products to work with a variety of battery power sources.

STLA02 further expands ST's existing product lineup for portable devices. Through ST's unique advanced manufacturing process and global leading integration and energy efficiency, the new products will help reduce the size of multi-function portable products and extend battery life. Other products for portable devices include energy-efficient DC-DC converters, audio chips, Class D audio amplifiers, Ambient Light Sensors, motion sensors, and high-performance, low-power microcontrollers ( STM8 and STM32 series).