Up to 1/3 the footprint of other components
High resolution achieved with 10000:1 PWM at 200Hz
Maxim Integrated Korea has launched the 'MAX20069', which integrates a 4-channel ^I2C -controlled 150mA LED backlight driver and 4-output TFT-LCD bias into a single chip.

As automakers integrate various in-vehicle infotainment systems into their vehicles, in-vehicle displays have become larger and more complex. The market for 8-inch displays used in vehicle instrument clusters, center stacks, and head-up displays is growing at an average annual rate of 39%.

To meet increasingly complex system requirements, automotive infotainment system designers need power solutions that are compact, precise, and flexible.

The MAX20069 supports four-channel 150mA LED backlight drivers and four-output TFT-LCD bias, reducing the design footprint by up to one-third compared to competing parts. Support for panels from multiple manufacturers via resistor or ^I²C programmable sequencing on a single board further reduces solution size.

Additionally, it uses only 25% of the microcontroller register bits compared to competing solutions, eliminating the need for expensive, high-performance MCUs in display design.

The MAX20069 supports large screens and high resolution by providing positive analog voltage (PAVDD) and negative analog voltage (NAVDD). PAVDD and NAVDD are required components for low-temperature polysilicon (LTPS) panels, which offer higher resolution at a lower cost than currently used amorphous silicon panels.

The MAX20069 supports the high current demand for next-generation displays. It provides 150mA per channel in a four-channel LED driver for high-resolution displays of 8 inches or larger. It operates over the -40°C to 105°C temperature range and is available in a 6mm x 6mm TQFN package.

The MAX20069 ensures panel readability during transitions between brightness levels by doubling the dimming rate of competing products. Its 10,000:1 pulse-width modulation (PWM) dimming ratio at 200Hz enhances resolution. The simple ^I2C interface allows for quick troubleshooting and adjustments to the MCU or to alert the driver of any malfunctions. It also reduces radio interference and radiation with a 2.2MHz switching frequency, spread spectrum, and phase shift function.

“Automotive panel shipments are expected to grow 12% this year, reaching 165 million units,” said Kevin Anderson, senior analyst for power IC research at market research firm IHS Markit. “The MAX20069, an ultra-small LED backlight driver with integrated TFT-LCD bias, will significantly help reduce cost, design space, and improve safety.”

“Automakers are increasingly looking to incorporate larger, brighter displays into their vehicle lines to provide drivers with a safer and more comfortable driving experience,” said Szukang Hsien, business manager for the Automotive Business Unit at Maxim Integrated. “The MAX20069 ultra-small LED backlight driver with built-in TFT-LCD bias supports this new panel type with its small solution size and high level of integration at a low cost.”