CL88020, Next-Generation Device Designed for Offline Lighting

Microchip Technology (North Asia General Manager and Korea Representative: Han Byung-don) has announced the launch of a next-generation sequential linear LED driver for offline lighting applications.

This driver IC is an addition to Microchip's widely-used CL88XX product family and is designed to directly drive long strings of cost-effective LEDs with 120V_AC line input. Since this product delivers high power factor (PF) without requiring switch-mode power conversion typically used in LED lighting designs, it enables the implementation of reliable and cost-effective compact LED lighting applications.

Keith Pazul, Marketing Director of Microchip's Analog, Power and Interface Division, stated, "Existing lighting systems are rapidly transitioning to LED products," and explained, "Microchip maintains a rich and diverse LED lighting portfolio, and customers are continuously seeking improved electronic solutions like this newly launched device."

The CL88020 is designed to minimize the number of driver circuit components to enable very compact and efficient design implementation. This simplified design approach enables single-layer PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design. This basic driver circuit, unlike conventional AC-DC switch-mode power supplies, consists of only the CL88020 IC, two small ceramic capacitors, and one bridge rectifier. High-voltage capacitors, transformers or inductors, EMI (Electromagnetic Interference) filters, or power factor correction (PFC) circuits are not required. Consequently, solution footprint size can be reduced compared to conventional LED solutions, and total BOM (Bill of Material) cost can be further lowered.

Director Pazul stated, "Through direct AC drive methodology, we can address various design-related challenges faced by customers," and added, "By utilizing this latest LED driver, designers can create simpler, more compact, and more robust high-performance LED lighting systems than ever before."