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    Discover the LM3697YFQR LED Driver's Amazing Features

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    danny@gns-ic.com
    ·August 23, 2025
    ·7 min read
    Discover the LM3697YFQR LED Driver'
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    The LM3697YFQR LED driver stands out in the competitive landscape due to its innovative features. This driver utilizes a step-up (boost) converter topology, enabling it to drive multiple LEDs efficiently. It supports a wide input voltage range from 2.7V to 5.5V and can output voltages up to 40V. These capabilities contribute to its appeal in modern applications, especially as the global LED driver market is projected to grow from USD 8.65 billion in 2024 to USD 56.6 billion by 2033. This rapid expansion reflects the increasing demand for energy-efficient lighting solutions across various sectors.

    Key Takeaways

    • The LM3697YFQR LED driver delivers high efficiency above 90%, saving energy and extending battery life.

    • It supports a wide input voltage range from 2.7V to 5.5V and can drive up to three LED strings with output voltages up to 40V.

    • Its 11-bit exponential dimming offers smooth and precise brightness control with 2048 levels for better visual quality.

    • The driver works well in harsh environments, operating from -40°C to 125°C without overheating, ensuring long-lasting performance.

    • Compact size and easy integration make the LM3697YFQR ideal for consumer electronics, smartphone backlighting, and automotive lighting.

    LM3697YFQR Features

    LM3697YFQR Features
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    Efficiency and Performance

    The LM3697YFQR LED driver excels in efficiency and performance, making it a top choice for various applications. This driver achieves high efficiency levels, often exceeding 90%. Such efficiency minimizes energy loss, which is crucial for battery-powered devices. The ability to operate across a wide input voltage range, from 2.7V to 5.5V, allows the LM3697YFQR to adapt to different power sources seamlessly. This flexibility ensures reliable performance in diverse environments, from consumer electronics to industrial applications.

    Moreover, the LM3697YFQR maintains excellent thermal performance. It operates effectively without overheating, which enhances the longevity of both the driver and the LEDs it powers. This characteristic is vital in applications where heat dissipation can affect overall system reliability.

    Dimming Capabilities

    One of the standout features of the LM3697YFQR is its 11-bit exponential dimming capability. This advanced feature allows for highly precise and smooth brightness control of LEDs. With 2048 discrete brightness levels, users can achieve fine granularity in adjusting LED brightness. This precision enhances visual performance and user experience, particularly in automotive, industrial, and general lighting applications.

    The exponential dimming curve improves the perceived linearity of brightness changes. As a result, transitions appear natural and less abrupt, which is essential for applications requiring consistent visual quality. The high-resolution dimming surpasses lower-bit solutions, supporting efficient and flexible LED illumination designs. The LM3697YFQR's ability to regulate current across three LED strings further enhances its suitability for backlight and LED lighting applications that demand fine brightness adjustments.

    LM3697YFQR Specifications

    Voltage and Current Range

    The LM3697YFQR LED driver supports a versatile input voltage range from 2.7V to 5.5V. This range allows the driver to operate effectively across various applications, ensuring compatibility with different power sources. The driver can output voltages up to 40V, making it capable of driving multiple LED strings simultaneously. Specifically, it can manage up to three series LED strings, which is essential for modern lighting designs that require flexibility and efficiency.

    The maximum output current of the LM3697YFQR is 1.5A. This capability allows the driver to handle demanding applications while maintaining optimal performance. Typically, the device drives LEDs at 30mA per channel, but its maximum output ensures that it can accommodate higher current needs when necessary. These specifications align well with the requirements of contemporary LED applications, where power management and brightness control are critical.

    Thermal Performance

    Thermal performance is a crucial aspect of the LM3697YFQR's design. The driver operates efficiently without overheating, which is vital for maintaining the longevity of both the driver and the LEDs it powers. The device is designed to function within an ambient temperature range of -40°C to +125°C, making it suitable for a wide variety of environments, including automotive and industrial applications.

    The compact package size of the LM3697YFQR, measuring 1.30 x 1.65 x 0.6 mm, contributes to its thermal efficiency. This small footprint allows for easy integration into tight spaces on printed circuit boards (PCBs). Additionally, the driver features integrated dimming functionality, which further enhances its suitability for modern LED applications. By managing heat effectively, the LM3697YFQR ensures reliable operation and performance, even under demanding conditions.

    Specification

    Details

    Manufacturer

    Texas Instruments

    Supply Voltage

    3.6 V

    RoHS Compliance

    RoHS3 Compliant

    Status

    Active

    Moisture Sensitivity Level

    1 (unlimited)

    Number of Terminations

    12

    Terminal Pitch

    0.4 mm

    Mounting Type

    Surface Mount

    Packaging

    12-WFBGA, DSBGA

    Function

    LED Driver with PWM/Analog control

    Operating Frequency

    1 MHz

    These specifications are critical for ensuring compatibility with design requirements and reliability under various environmental conditions. The LM3697YFQR's performance metrics make it an excellent choice for new designs in the LED driver market.

    Applications of LM3697YFQR

    Applications of LM3697YFQR
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    Consumer Electronics

    The LM3697YFQR LED driver finds extensive applications in consumer electronics. Its high efficiency and performance make it ideal for devices such as televisions, monitors, and smart lighting systems. The driver provides constant current output, ensuring stable brightness across various LED configurations.

    Key benefits of using the LM3697YFQR in consumer electronics include:

    • High Efficiency: The driver operates with efficiency levels often exceeding 90%, minimizing energy loss.

    • Programmable Current Sinking: It supports programmable LED current sinking up to 60mA, allowing for precise brightness control.

    • Low EMI: The device operates with low electromagnetic interference, which enhances performance in sensitive electronic environments.

    These features collectively contribute to improved energy efficiency in consumer electronics, making the LM3697YFQR a preferred choice for manufacturers aiming to create energy-efficient products.

    Smartphone Backlighting

    Smartphone backlighting represents another significant application area for the LM3697YFQR. The driver’s ability to manage multiple LED strings allows for vibrant displays and enhanced user experiences. In smartphones, the driver plays a crucial role in providing uniform brightness and color accuracy.

    The advantages of using the LM3697YFQR for smartphone backlighting include:

    • Wide Operating Voltage Range: It operates effectively within a voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V, accommodating various battery configurations.

    • Temperature Resilience: The driver functions reliably across a temperature range of -40°C to 125°C, ensuring performance in diverse conditions.

    • Exponential Dimming: The 11-bit dimming capability allows for smooth transitions in brightness, enhancing visual quality during use.

    These attributes make the LM3697YFQR an excellent choice for smartphone manufacturers seeking to deliver high-quality displays while optimizing energy consumption.

    Comparing LM3697YFQR with Other Drivers

    Competitive Advantages

    The LM3697YFQR LED driver offers several competitive advantages that distinguish it from other drivers in the market. First, its high efficiency, often exceeding 90%, sets a benchmark for energy savings. Many competitors struggle to achieve similar performance levels, which can lead to increased energy costs for consumers.

    Another advantage lies in its 11-bit dimming capability. This feature allows for smoother brightness transitions compared to drivers with lower bit-depth dimming. Users appreciate the enhanced visual quality, especially in applications requiring precise lighting control.

    Additionally, the LM3697YFQR supports a wide input voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V. This flexibility enables compatibility with various power sources, making it suitable for diverse applications. Many competing drivers do not offer such a broad range, limiting their usability.

    User Feedback

    User feedback consistently highlights the LM3697YFQR's reliability and performance. Many engineers and designers report satisfaction with its thermal management capabilities. The driver operates efficiently without overheating, which is crucial for maintaining the longevity of both the driver and the LEDs.

    Moreover, users commend the ease of integration into existing designs. The compact package size allows for seamless incorporation into tight spaces on printed circuit boards. This aspect is particularly beneficial for manufacturers looking to optimize their product designs.

    The LM3697YFQR LED driver offers a range of impressive features that make it a standout choice for various applications. Below is a summary of its key attributes:

    Feature

    Description

    LED Driver Type

    3-string backlight driver with 11-bit exponential dimming

    PWM Generator

    16-bit PWM generator

    Interface

    I2C interface for control

    ADC

    12-bit analog-to-digital converter

    LED Current Sink

    Programmable up to 60mA

    Supply Voltage Range

    2.7V to 5.5V

    Operating Temperature Range

    -40°C to +125°C

    Package Type

    DSBGA-12 (12 pins)

    Compliance

    RoHS compliant

    Applications

    Automotive lighting, industrial lighting, general lighting

    Key Performance

    Constant current output, high efficiency, low EMI, efficient brightness control

    For those interested in learning more about the LM3697YFQR, the DigiKey product page provides EDA/CAD models and links to the Texas Instruments manufacturer page. Additionally, the LCSC product page offers direct access to the official datasheet, which includes detailed technical specifications and design support.

    Consider the LM3697YFQR for your LED driving needs. Its efficiency and versatility can enhance your designs significantly.

    FAQ

    What is the maximum output current of the LM3697YFQR?

    The LM3697YFQR can deliver a maximum output current of 1.5A, allowing it to handle demanding applications effectively.

    How does the LM3697YFQR achieve high efficiency?

    The LM3697YFQR achieves high efficiency, often exceeding 90%, by utilizing a step-up (boost) converter topology that minimizes energy loss.

    What is the significance of the 11-bit dimming capability?

    The 11-bit dimming capability allows for 2048 discrete brightness levels, enabling precise and smooth control of LED brightness for enhanced visual performance.

    In which applications can the LM3697YFQR be used?

    The LM3697YFQR is suitable for various applications, including consumer electronics, smartphone backlighting, and automotive lighting.

    What temperature range can the LM3697YFQR operate in?

    The LM3697YFQR operates effectively within a temperature range of -40°C to +125°C, making it suitable for diverse environments.

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