Maxim's latest backlight drivers uniquely combine a negative-charge-pump architecture with independent LED switching to improve efficiency in portable devices.

Backlight drivers increase LED efficiency by 12% to extend battery life.

SUNNYVALE, CA—June 3, 2010—Maxim Integrated Products (NASDAQ: MXIM) introduces the MAX8847/MAX8848, negative charge pumps for up to 6 or 7 white LEDs (WLEDs) in a 3mm x 3mm TQFN package. These backlight drivers employ a negative-charge-pump architecture to eliminate in-line resistance from the battery to WLEDs. As a result, mode switching from 1x to 1.5x is delayed during battery discharge, thereby minimizing dropout. The proprietary adaptive-mode-switching technology controls each LED individually. The net result of this innovative technology is a 12% increase in LED efficiency and, thus, longer battery life. This extra efficiency makes the MAX8847/MAX8848 well suited for cell phones, smartphones, digital still cameras, and other portable applications.

The MAX8847/MAX8848 can also replace the inductor-boost LED drivers that consume a large piece of PCB real estate in conventional designs. A serial pulse/PWM interface controls each LED, which enables multizone light management and allows up to 32 brightness levels. The low 120µA quiescent current facilitates "always-on" displays that require minimal power. High LED current accuracy (±2%, max) ensures even brightness and minimizes power dissipation. Built-in temperature derating and overvoltage protection further extend the life of the LEDs.

The MAX8847/MAX8848 are offered in a 3mm x 3mm, 16-pin TQFN package. Pricing starts at $1.95 (1000-up, FOB USA).

Maxim Integrated Products is a publicly traded company that designs, manufactures, and sells high-performance semiconductor products. The Company was founded over 25 years ago with the mission to deliver innovative analog and mixed-signal engineering solutions that add value to its customers' products. To date, it has developed over 6300 products serving the industrial, communications, consumer, and computing markets.