Diodes Incorporated has launched two new automotive-grade LED drivers, the AL58818Q and AL58812Q, designed to make complex, animated lighting effects easier to implement in next-generation vehicles. The 18- and 12-channel devices target rear lamps, grille accents, interior ambient lighting, and infotainment displays, but can be used anywhere precise, low-noise LED control is needed.
Flexible Control for Complex Designs
Both devices integrate a 12-bit PWM generator running at 30kHz on every channel, giving designers smooth dimming and precise color control without audible noise. A selectable pin lets engineers choose either I²C or SPI for programming, making the parts simple to drop into a variety of system architectures.
The AL58818Q drives up to six RGB modules (or 18 single-color LEDs), while the AL58812Q handles four RGB modules. Current per channel is set with a single resistor, up to 70mA, with a global 6-bit register for fine adjustment.
Smooth Dimming and Color Consistency
Diodes has focused on achieving very tight current matching, within 3% from channel to channel, which helps maintain uniform color across a lighting array. A combination of 9-bit PWM plus 3-bit dithering pushes resolution to 0.0244%, producing exceptionally smooth fades. At very low brightness, the devices switch to analog dimming automatically, avoiding the “stepped” look that can appear when PWM duty cycles get too small.
An internal 16MHz oscillator eliminates the need for an external clock, and built-in phase shifting staggers LED turn-on times to ease power supply stress and reduce input ripple, useful for systems running from a shared automotive rail.
Built-In Fault Protection
Diagnostics include open/short detection, undervoltage and thermal warnings, and a global FAULT pin that can be masked per channel. When all outputs are idle, the devices automatically enter a power-saving mode, drawing just 15µA, or 1µA in full shutdown.
Packaging and Tools
Both drivers come in the compact W-QFN5050-40/SWP package with wettable flanks for easier inspection during assembly. Diodes also offers a 3-in-1 RGB evaluation board to help speed development and complements these devices with its previously released 36-channel AL5887Q for higher channel-count systems.
The AL58818Q and AL58812Q are available now, priced at $0.85 and $0.80, respectively for 5,000-piece orders.
Learn more and read the original article on www.diodes.com
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