The Industry’s First LED Driver ICs Designed For Standard Headlamps (high/low beam) and DRLs

Automakers have been gradually switching to LEDs for headlamps and DRLs (Daytime Running Lights), primarily due to the many advantages that LEDs provide, such as high efficiency and long service life. The adoption of LED DRLs in particular is quickly spreading, especially in Europe, as manufacturers focus on safety.



ROHM's new dedicated LED driver IC (BD8381EFV-M) includes all functions required for LED headlamp switching (high/low) and DRL operation. A step-down DC/DC converter is built in that supports a variety of LED configurations, along with a PWM dimming function required for DRLs, enabling control without a microcontroller. In addition, multiple protection circuits are incorporated, including open/short detection, ensuring a high degree of reliability while reducing the number of external parts.



Key Features

Input voltage range : 5V to 30V

Voltage accuracy±5% (Ta=-40ºC to 125ºC)

Built-in step-up/step-down current mode DC/DC controller

External mounting supports step-down, step-up, and step-up/step-down applications.







Compatible with DRLs (Daylight Running Lights)

Oscillator built-in for PWM dimming

Supports linear dimming

Multiple protection circuits (overvoltage, overcurrent, thermal shutdown, undervoltage lock out, LED anode/cathode ground protection)

Integrated LED open/short detection

Compact HTSSOP-B28 package























Key Feature 1 : Built-in boost/buck DC/DC converter enables support for a variety of configurationsThe number of LEDs used in headlamps and DRLs can vary significantly based on set design and application requirements. With this in mind, ROHM includes a DC/DC converter that supports boost and buck operations for increased flexibility.











































Key Feature 2 : Built-in oscillator circuit for PWM dimming - required for DRLs - eliminates the need for a microcontrollerDRLs normally operate at full brightness during the daytime and then dim at night when used in combination with the headlamps. ROHM's LED driver ICs integrate a PWM oscillator circuit that enables PWM dimming operation without a microcontroller while preventing changes in hue. The oscillation frequency can be set via external resistor/capacitor circuit.























Key Feature 3 : Internal LED open/short/ground protection function saves space, contributing to end-product miniaturizationROHM LED driver ICs feature an overcurrent/ground protection function that detects the current flowing to the high-side MOS switch, enabling short/ground detection not only in the LED lamps, but in the boost/buck application circuit as well. High accuracy detection is performed through a resistance balance circuit connected in parallel to the LED circuit. This protection circuit will output a flag and alert the system in the event of LED failure.





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Key Feature 4 : Built-in DC dimming adjusts the brightness based on LED temperature, preventing premature LED breakdownDimming via DC voltage is possible in addition to PWM. This allows dimming to be performed based on the temperature of the LEDs by using the input from a thermistor and temperature sensor situated near the LED lamps, preventing LED degradation.