LED converter can be adapted to the needs of many TFT displays
A universal and configurable converter solution for TFT display backlights has been introduced by Distec. The device, which extends the company’s SmartLED series, features the SmartLEDRover user software. This allows for precise adjustment to the requirements of various TFT displays.
The LED current, PWM frequency, PWM settings for the minimum and maximum brightness and active LED outputs can be individually set. Configurations can be stored and easily transferred to other SmartLED converters, which allows for a fast serial production of precisely configured converters for various applications. Thus, the SmartLED converter is a universal base for custom projects with different TFT display. The converter is available in three versions with different input and output voltages. The SmartLED-II, for example, is suitable for explosion-protected areas because its low voltage prevents air discharge arcing.
A wide operating temperature range of -30 to +70°C enables use in harsh environments. For operation in dark environments, the converter dims the LED backlight to any value between 0 and 100%. This enables reducing the brightness drastically for eye-friendly night operation, for example, in ships or trains. For TFT displays, which include an NVIS compatible backlight in addition to the LED backlight, the converter provides a NVIS mode. Here, the display is switched to the NVIS backlight when necessary.
Via an Ambient light sensor, the processor can adjust the brightness of the backlight automatically to the respective ambient light conditions. This guarantees a readable image at all times and saves energy because the screen is not unnecessarily bright. A temperature sensor maintains the optimum operating temperature for the display via a fan. If the display gets too hot, the SmartLED converter ensures that the fan is turned on and the backlight is dimmed to lower the temperature quickly. With these features, the converter can be precisely adapted to the specific needs of different projects.