MAX25605 sequential LED controller cuts size in half

In addition, the MAX25605 reduces design space by up to 50% and slashes bill-of-materials (BOM) costs by up to 25% compared to the closest competing solution.

Sequential LED lighting features used to be exclusive to high-end vehicle model segments due to complexity in design and cost constraints. The MAX25605 now simplifies designs, allowing more mid-range and economy models to adopt their own animation signatures. It controls LED current up to 750mA, thus providing more flexibility in the lighting design.

The MAX25605 integrates six switches, manages up to three LEDs per switch and can be daisy-chained up to 16 devices without the need for a microcontroller or software. With this comprehensive solution, designers can accurately program sequence timing, direction and linear or log dimming, while also easily detecting fault conditions. This component reduction cuts BOM costs and saves time and effort by eliminating the need for software.

“LED exterior lighting has long been the province of premium brands and models,” said Edward A. Sanchez, Senior Analyst at Strategy Analytics. “OEMs know creative use of LED exterior lighting on cars instantly conveys technical sophistication and aspirational style. Sequenced LEDs represent the next evolution in vehicle styling, creating a unique and appealing visual feature that also has compelling safety and functionality benefits.”

“Integration makes the MAX25605 the most compressive sequential turn signal solution in the market,” added Yin Wu, Senior Business Manager, Automotive Business Unit at Maxim Integrated. “In addition, hardware programming simplifies development efforts while managing up to 750mA of LED current allows for much more flexibility to meet lumen requirements.”