Semtech Expands Multi-String White LED Driver Platform with High-Efficiency Solutions for Medium and Large Displays

SC440 and SC441 target medium- and high-brightness applications; offer industry best current matching for uniform brightness

Camarillo, California - September 20, 2007

Semtech Corp. (Nasdaq: SMTC), a leading supplier of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors, today announced two integrated, multi-string white LED drivers, the SC440 and SC441, that give notebook computer and LCD panel manufacturers a compact, high efficiency solution for powering display backlight applications.

The SC440 can power up to six strings of 30mA WLEDs in series and is ideal for notebook computer and other displays that measure up to 15-inches.  The SC441 powers up to four strings of 150mA WLEDs in series and is designed for smaller and brighter display applications such as automobile navigation screens or others measuring up to about 9-inches.  These devices are part of Semtech’s family of display backlighting driver products, and are the first to expand that product platform from small screens to medium and large screens.

The devices feature 91% efficiency at maximum load for improved thermal conditions and longer battery life in portable applications. Screen brightness is kept uniform through an active current matching capability that delivers an industry best 1% (typical) current variation across all strings.

Both devices also feature a wide 4.5V to 21V input range to meet voltage levels of portable devices.  The devices feature a pulse-width modulation (PWM) dimming control with frequencies up to 50kHz to deliver a linear brightness range of between 0.2% to 100%.

The highly integrated devices both feature a built-in 2.5A power switch and extensive protection mechanisms.  The LED open/short circuit detection disables an LED string with an open or short condition without impacting the other strings.  The devices also protect the IC from damage caused by over thermal, over-voltage and over-current conditions.

“The SC440 and SC441 provide one of the highest efficiency, integrated power solutions for display makers that want to turn to LEDs for a mercury-free backlight capability,” said Ramesh Balasubramaniam, Semtech Marketing Manager, Display Power. “These devices lead the market in efficiency and current matching capability to provide an excellent screen image, and are small enough and flexible enough for all medium and high brightness applications.”

The SC440 is housed in a 4mm x 4mm MLPQ-24 (QFN-24) and the SC441 is available in a TSSOP20. Both packages feature an exposed thermal pad to allow for high temperature and high power applications and both are lead-free and WEEE/RoHS compliant.

Key Features of the SC440 and SC441

  • 91% max efficiency
  • Input range: 4.5V-21V
  • 36V max output voltage (adjustable OVP for smaller output capacitor)
  • 1% string-to-string current matching
  • SC440 - up to six WLED strings with current of up to 30mA per string
  • SC441 up to four WLED strings with current of up to 150mA per string
  • SC440 - Integrated 2.0A min. power switch
  • SC441 - Integrated 2.5A min. power switch
  • Open /short circuit LED protection functionality

Pricing and Availability

The SC440 (order code: SC440MLTRT) is available immediately in production quantities and is priced at $2.13 each in 1,000-piece lots. The SC441 (order code: SC441TETRT) is available immediately in production quantities and is also priced at $2.13 each in 1,000-piece lots. Semtech offers comprehensive design assistance, including field- and factory-based support. Data sheets, volume pricing, and delivery quotes, as well as evaluation kits and samples, are available by contacting salesinfo@semtech.com.

About Semtech

Semtech Corporation is a leading supplier of high-quality analog and mixed-signal semiconductor products. The company is dedicated to providing customers with proprietary solutions and breakthrough technology in power management, protection, test & measurement, advanced communications and wireless connectivity products.  Publicly traded since 1967, Semtech is listed on the NASDAQ National Market under the symbol SMTC.  For more information, contact Semtech Corp. at 200 Flynn Road, Camarillo, CA 93012-8790; phone (805) 498-2111; email to info@semtech.com; or visit its web site at www.semtech.com.

Press Contact

Terry Sears, Marketing Communications Manager, Telephone: 805.498.2111

 

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