Smallest and most powerful LED driver for portable applications

Micrel Introduces Ultra-Compact 2MHz, 7-12W Integrated Boost HB LED Driver Solution


SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 2 - Micrel Inc., (Nasdaq: MCRL), an industry leader in analog, high bandwidth communications and Ethernet IC solutions, today launched the MIC2299, the industry's smallest and most powerful LED driver for portable applications.
This high-efficiency boost DC-to-DC converter features an integrated 3.5A
guaranteed switch current and delivers a net output power of 7-12W -- from
a tiny 3mm x 3mm MLF(R) package. Targeting photoflash and torchlight
applications in mobile phones, PDAs, digital cameras, and emergency
lighting, the MIC2299 is currently available in volume quantities with
pricing starting at $1.70 for 1K quantities.
"With a guaranteed 3.5A switch current and a solution footprint of just
0.25 square inch, Micrel's MIC2299 sets a new standard for driving high
brightness LEDs in portable applications without sacrificing valuable
battery life," noted Ralf Muenster, Micrel's marketing director for power
products. "In addition, the solution enables up to 30V on the output
thereby enabling arrays of up to eight high brightness LEDs in a series."
The powerful, high current integrated switch in the MIC2299 allows the
device to deliver at least 1A into two WLEDs or 750mA into three WLEDs
connected in series. This enables a powerful torch for illumination in dark
environments or a brilliant flash for improved picture quality in low light
situations. LED brightness can be dynamically controlled by applying a
voltage or PWM signal to the brightness pin. The IC operates at a fixed
2MHz switching frequency with an efficiency reaching up to 90 percent. The
MIC2299 solution requires only a tiny, low profile inductor and small
ceramic capacitors, making the footprint very compact while minimizing
solution cost. Finally, consistent with the current operating array of a
range of battery configurations, the solution operates from an input
voltage range of 2.5 - 10V.
About Micrel, Inc.
Micrel Inc., is a leading global manufacturer of IC solutions for the
worldwide analog, Ethernet and high bandwidth markets. The Company's
products include advanced mixed-signal, analog and power semiconductors;
high performance communication, clock management, Ethernet switch and
physical layer transceiver ICs. Company customers include leading
manufacturers of enterprise, consumer, industrial, mobile,
telecommunications, automotive, and computer products. Corporation
headquarters and state-of-the-art wafer fabrication facilities are located
in San Jose, CA, with regional sales and support offices and advanced
technology design centers situated throughout the Americas, Europe and
Asia. In addition, the Company maintains an extensive network of
distributors and reps worldwide. (prn)