New MOSFET driver simplifies HB LED driver design

Maxim Integrated Products introduces the MAX15054, a high-side MOSFET driver for high voltage applications. This device provides a low-cost solution for HB (high-brightness) LED designs that require a buck or buck-boost topology, but lack the requisite high-side MOSFET driver. The MAX15054 enables designers to avoid the cost and complexity of a SEPIC topology by allowing the implementation of buck and single-inductor buck-boost topologies with the output referenced to ground in single string and multistring LED drivers.

The MAX15054 features a very short (12 ns) propagation delay, as well as short rise and fall times due to its 2 A drive capability. Its dual UVLO (undervoltage lockout) feature protects the power MOSFET from damage in the event that the gate-drive or supply voltage is too low. Due to its operation up to 60 V, the MAX15054 can be used by designers for automotive and HB LED illumination applications. It is also suited for full- and half-bridge and two-switch forward converters in datacom, telecom, and server applications.

The MAX15054 is available in a small, 2.9 x 2.8 mm, 6-pin SOT23 package, and is fully specified over the -40° to 125° C automotive temperature range.

For more information, contact Maxim Integrated Products, 120 San Gabriel Dr., Sunnyvale, CA 94086. Phone: (408) 737-7600.