Linear Technology has announced the LT3599, a 45V, 2.1MHz DC/DC boost mode converter designed to operate as a constant current LED driver for up to 40 white LEDs.

From a 12V input, the LT3599 can drive four strings of LEDs, each with up to ten 120mA white LEDs in series while delivering efficiencies up to 90%. Its multichannel capability makes it ideal for medium-sized TFT-LCD backlighting applications.

The LT3599's input voltage range of 3.1V to 30V is well-suited for automotive, medical and industrial applications. The device offers 1.5% LED current matching to ensure uniform brightness of the display. Dimming ratios as high as 3,000:1 can be attained by using True Color PWM™ dimming.

Additionally, the switching frequency is synchronizable to an external clock for improved noise immunity. The LT3599's thermally enhanced 5mm x 5mm QFN or TSSOP-28E package provides a highly compact solution footprint for LED backlighting applications.

The LT3599EUH is available in a 32-lead 5mm x 5mm QFN package and the LT3599EFE is offered in a TSSOP-28E. 1,000-piece pricing starts at $3.25 each and $3.35 each, respectively. Industrial grade versions, the LT3599IUF and LT3599IFE, are tested and guaranteed to operate to the -40°C to 125°C operating junction temperature and are priced at $3.82 each and $3.94 each, respectively, in 1,000-piece quantities.