Supertex, Inc. (NasdaqGS: SUPX) recently introduced the HV9918, a buck-mode LED driver IC with hysteretic current control and high-side current sensing. It is ideal for a variety of solid-state lighting applications, such as low voltage industrial and architectural LED lighting, signage or decorative lighting, indicator or emergency lighting, as well as a general purpose constant current source.

The hysteretic control function of the HV9918 maintains a constant output current to the LED string at all times, regardless of input voltage fluctuations. LEDs are proven to be far more reliable and long lasting when driven by a constant current than by a direct voltage source. It drives loads of up to 1.0A at over 90% efficiency with +/-5% current accuracy from input voltages of 4.5 to 40V. The IC also features an embedded FET for cost and parts count reduction in solid-state lighting applications.

“Supertex’s HV9918 provides fast transient load response and eliminates the need for feedback-loop compensation,” states Ahmed Masood, Vice President of Marketing for Supertex. “With its built-in switching FET, this device reduces overall system cost and board space while delivering accurate current control for LED lighting applications.”

The HV9918 is available in an 8-Lead DFN package (HV9918K7-G). The part is Green and RoHS compliant. Samples are available from stock. Lead-time for production quantities is 4-6 weeks ARO. Pricing is US$0.68 for the HV9918K7-G in 1K quantities.

About Supertex
Supertex, Inc. is a publicly held mixed signal semiconductor manufacturer, focused in high voltage analog and mixed signal products for use in the medical, LED lighting, imaging, industrial, and telecommunication industries. Supertex product, corporate and financial information is readily available at www.supertex.com.