ROHM LED driver targets automotive headlamp cluster functions

SAN DIEGO, USA: ROHM Semiconductor announced the availability of model BD8381EFV-M high-brightness LED driver for automotive forward illumination applications. With this new flexible IC, designers can now specify the same driver for use in high-beam, low-beam and daytime running light (DRL) circuits.

The BD8381EFV-M current-mode buck/boost controller provides stable operation over a wide input voltage (5-30V) and removes constraints on the number of LEDs in series connection. Integrated protection monitors voltage, current and temperature.

LED open and short circuit detection is also provided. The BD8381EFV-M has an internal PWM controller so dimming functions can be implemented with a simple external CR circuit. This same circuit can be implemented to limit output current in case of LED overtemperature detection.

Senior Design Engineering Manager for ROHM Semiconductor, Nick Ikuta, said: "Instead of having to select a different drive for each headlamp function, designers can now use one device. Because of its buck/boost configuration, it can handle series LED connections numbering from just one to several."