MAX8847/48: Backlight drivers with adaptive mode switching boost efficiency by 12% in portable devices

Maxim Integrated Products introduces the MAX8847/MAX8848, negative charge pumps for up to 6 or 7 white LEDs (WLEDs) in a 3mm x 3mm TQFN package. These backlight drivers employ a negative-charge-pump architecture to eliminate in-line resistance from the battery to WLEDs. As a result, mode switching from 1x to 1.5x is delayed during battery discharge, thereby minimizing dropout. The proprietary adaptive-mode-switching technology controls each LED individually. The net result of this innovative technology is a 12% increase in LED efficiency and, thus, longer battery life. This extra efficiency makes the MAX8847/MAX8848 well suited for cell phones, smartphones, digital still cameras, and other portable applications.