Linear Technology Corporation announces the LTC3452, a synchronous buck-boost DC/DC converter optimized for driving two banks of white LEDs from a single Li-Ion battery. Up to five parallel LEDs can be driven at up to 25mA each for backlighting LCD panels, while two LEDS can be driven at up to 200mA each (or one LED at 400mA) for camera flash applications. The LTC3452''s synchronous buck-boost topology delivers up to 90% efficiency over the entire usable Li-Ion range of 2.7V to 4.2V, maximizing battery run-time. The combination of a 4mm x 4mm QFN package and a constant 1MHz switching frequency ensures a very compact solution footprint required in most handhelds.

The LTC3452 operates in either synchronous buck, synchronous boost or buck-boost mode, depending on the input voltage and the maximum LED forward voltage drop. Optimum efficiency is achieved by sensing which LED requires the largest forward voltage drop at its programmed current and regulating the common output rail for the lowest dropout. Maximum LED current for each display is programmable with a single external resistor. Dual enable pins allow for PWM brightness control for the TFT display while an independent on/off control is used for the flash output. Other features include: internal soft start, open/shorted LED protection and over-temperature protection.

The LTC3452EUF is available from stock in a 4mm x 4mm DFN package. Pricing starts at $1.80 each for 1,000-piece quantities.

Summary of Features: LTC3452 
 High Efficiency: ≥90% Over Entire Single-Cell Li-Ion Battery Range 
 Wide VIN Range: 2.7V to 5.5V
 
 Independent MAIN/CAMERA Current Control 
 500mA (total) Continuous Output Current
 Constant Frequency 1MHz Operation
 
 Internal Soft Start
 
 Open/Shorted LED Protection
 PWM Brightness Control
 Over Temperature Protection
 
 Low Shutdown Current: 6uA
 Small Thermally Enhanced 16-Lead (4mm x 4mm) QFN Package