The MAX16831 is a current-mode, high-brightness LED (HBLED) driver designed to control two external n-channel MOSFETs for the single-string LED current regulation. The MAX16831 integrates all the building blocks necessary to implement fixed-frequency HBLED drivers with wide-range dimming control. The MAX16831 is configurable to operate as a step-down (buck), step-up (boost), or step-up/-down (buck-boost) current regulator.

Current-mode control with leading-edge blanking simplifies control-loop design. Internal slope compensation stabilizes the current loop when operating at duty cycles above 50%. The MAX16831 operates over a wide input voltage range and is capable of withstanding automotive load-dump events. Multiple MAX16831s can be synchronized to each other or to an external clock. The MAX16831 includes a floating dimming driver for brightness control with an external n-channel MOSFET in series with the LED string.

HBLED drivers using the MAX16831 achieve efficiencies of over 90% in automotive applications. The MAX16831 also includes a 1.4A source and 2.5A sink gate driver for driving switching MOSFETs in high-power LED driver applications, such as front light assemblies. The dimming control allows for wide PWM dimming at frequencies up to 2kHz. Higher dimming ratios of up to 1000:1 are achievable at lower dimming frequencies.

The MAX16831 is available in a 32-pin thin QFN package with exposed pad and operates over the -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range.