Diodes introduces a 36-channel linear LED driver that meets automotive specifications and is suitable for display and lighting product applications

     Diodes introduces new automotive specification * 36-channel linear LED current drivers. With the ability to drive RGB configurations and individual leds, the AL5887Q helps designers achieve a variety of dynamic lighting modes and color depths in internal and external luminaries to meet OEM's brand differentiation needs. These two control functions simplify the complex LED-style module designs of the past and, combined with their high efficiency characteristics, save valuable power. Product applications include interior environmental lighting, taillights, electric vehicle external charging status indicators and infotainment systems. The AL5887Q operates in a temperature range of -40°C to +125°C and is available in a small wettable W-QFN6060-52/SWP (Type A1) package measuring only 6mm x 6mm.

     The AL5887Q supports up to 12 RGB LED modules with three programmable databases (A, B, C) and software control for each color. The device passes through an external resistor that sets the output current for all 36 channels. Lighting designers can achieve maximum flexibility in system programming through the hardware selection of digital interfaces (INT_SEL pins), select I²C or SPI interfaces. Each channel can be set to a current of up to 70mA, allowing the LED to present the highest clarity without the need to use a parallel design. When all leds are turned off for more than 30 milliseconds, the device's automatic power saving mode (15µA) and ultra-low static shutdown current (1µA) help designers minimize unnecessary automotive battery consumption.

     The AL5887Q has multiple protection features, including fault reporting via an Open Drain fault pin and overheat protection (OTP) with advance warning. The device has independently addressable fault shielding registers and open/short circuit registers that allow designers to enable and deactivate fault reporting for each of the 36 channels in the lighting system. Unused RGB channels can be deactivated by LED-configurable registers.

     The AL5887Q has a built-in 16MHz oscillator for PWM dimming that eliminates the need for an external clock, reducing the PCB size of the lighting module, simplifying design and layout, and reducing bill of materials (BOM) costs. The device uses a 12-bit PWM addressable register coupled with an internal PWM generator of 30kHz to optimize color mixing and minimize audible noise. The device supports deep PWM dimming by modulating the duty cycle of the constant current from 100% to 3%. When the duty cycle is below 3%, the internal circuit converts the PWM signal to analog dimming, thus maintaining the overall linear dimming. The AL5887Q has 3% interdevice and interchannel current accuracy, enabling designers to achieve accurate color mixing and consistent color distribution across multiple lighting modules and displays.