MILPITAS, CA - - Linear Technology announces the H-grade version of the LT3496. The LT3496 is a 2MHz DC/DC converter designed to operate as a three-channel constant current LED driver. Each of the device's three channels can drive up to eight 500mA LEDs in series, enabling it to drive up to 24 x 500mA LEDs at efficiencies up to 96%. The H-grade version operates up to a junction temperature of 150˚C, compared to the E- and I-grade versions' 125˚C maximum junction temperature. All electrical specifications are identical for the E-, I- and H-grade versions. The H-grade parts are tested and guaranteed to the maximum junction temperature of 150˚C. They are ideal for automotive and industrial applications which are subjected to high ambient temperatures.

The LT3496 senses output current at the high side of the LED, enabling buck,

buck-boost or boost configurations. Each channel is operated by an independent True Color PWM^TM signal, enabling each to be dimmed independently to ratios as high as 3,000:1. A fixed frequency, current-mode architecture ensures stable operation over a wide range of supply and output voltages. A frequency adjust pin enables the user to program the frequency between 330kHz and 2.1MHz to optimize efficiency while minimizing external component size. The LT3496's thermally enhanced 4mm x 5mm QFN package provides a highly compact solution footprint for 50W LED applications.

The LT3496HUFD is available from stock in a 4mm x 5mm QFN-28 package. Pricing starts at $4.45 each for 1,000 piece quantities.