align="justify">Buck convertor can drive up to ten 50mA LEDs in a single series string from a 48V input, making it ideal for industrial and LED signage applications

The LT3590 from Linear Technology is a 48V buck-mode DC/DC convertor designed to operate as a constant-current LED driver. An internal 55V, 80mA switch and Schottky diode enable it to drive up to ten 50mA LEDs in a single series string from a 48V input, making it ideal for industrial and LED signage applications.

Series connection of the LEDs provides identical LED currents up to 50mA, resulting in uniform brightness and eliminating the need of ballast resistors.

Dimming is adjusted via the control pin, and ratios as high as 200:1 can be attained.

Its switching frequency of 850kHz enables the use of tiny inductors and ceramic capacitors while providing efficiency as high as 91%.

Combined with a 2 x 2mm DFN or SC-70 package, it offers a very compact solution for driving high current LEDs.

The LT3590 uses a fixed frequency current mode architecture which offers stable operation over a wide range of input and output voltages.

A 200mV feedback voltage offers +/-5% accuracy, ensuring consistent LED brightness.

The LT3590 is available from stock in either a 2 x 2mm DFN-6 or 8-lead SC-70 package. 1000-piece pricing starts at US $1.40 each for both versions.