8-Switch Matrix LED Dimmer Launched
Linear announced that it has released an LED bypass switching device (product name; LT3965) that enables independent dimming and diagnostic functions for eight individual LEDs or LED segments.

The LT3965 operates with an LED driver circuit consisting of a current source. This product provides eight individually controlled floating 17V/330mΩ NMOS switches.

Individual LEDs within the string can be turned on or off using a built-in power switch and an integrated I2C serial interface, or can perform PWM dimming to provide a unique pattern within the LED matrix.




Common applications include automotive matrix LED headlights, industrial lighting, and large LED display lighting. The I2C serial interface enables digital programming at a 256:1 dimming ratio, with or without an 11-bit resolution fade transition function between dimming states.

Each switch can control and monitor a single LED or LEDs connected in series up to 16V. The LT3965's 8V to 60V input voltage range can accommodate a wide range of LED drives commonly used in automotive and industrial applications. For large LED matrix applications, multiple LT3965s (up to 16) can use a common I2C bus.

The eight switches of the LT3965 can be connected in parallel or series to bypass current around one or more LED strings. When multiple LT3965s are used, the I2C serial interface enables communication between one or more LT3965s configured as a master microcontroller and slaves.

The LT3965 features an integrated clock generator and supports external clock sources for PWM dimming. Additionally, each channel of the LT3965 provides both open LED and short-circuit LED error reporting and protection functions. The product is available in a 28-pin TSSOP thermally enhanced package , ensuring a compact solution footprint for matrix dimming applications.