The latest LIN RGB LED controller to enhance the performance of in-car atmosphere light applications

     Melexis announced the introduction of a new generation of LIN RGB (W) LED controller IC products. As the global leader in in-car atmosphere light solutions, the new MLX81113 will support the further development of LIN-based RGB LED in-car atmosphere light applications, also known as LIN RGB, which is already recognized by almost all Oems worldwide. Compared to the popular MLX81108, the MLX81113 features larger on-chip memory, higher constant current source output, and greater EMC stability. In addition, the MLX81113 meets the ISO 26262 functional safety requirements and meets the ASIL-A rating.

     The MLX81113 improves system-on-chip functionality with MLX16 FX 16-bit RISC microcontroller, 2 KB RAM and 32 KB Flash, and system ROM for significantly improved application performance. The on-chip EEPROM is increased to 576 bytes for storing user data, such as the LED calibration factor, thus ensuring that the RGB leds for automotive applications have evenly balanced brightness and color.

     The four-way constant current source output supports software programming to deliver up to 60 mA of current and supports the use of a wide range of RGB leds from different vendors. Independent PWM control with 16-bit resolution can be used to adjust any color point and brightness level of the connected RGB LED. Built-in temperature monitoring ensures color stability from -40°C to 125°C and allows temperature compensation for all color channels. Any temperature drift in red, green and blue can be fully compensated. We offer a complete toolchain to support rapid application development, including PCB evaluation boards, in-line simulators and C compiler packages. To simplify software development for our customers, we also provide all the necessary software components, including LIN drivers, color mixing and math libraries, and IC initialization routines.

     "Lighting is one of the key features that will enable personalization and differentiation in the cockpit of the future. With our latest product, we have further expanded our lighting product range to suit this trend." Michael Bender, LIN product Line Manager at Melexis, said, "Our LIN compatible RGB(W) drives provide excellent and cost-effective in-car ambiance light applications for entry-level, mid-range and luxury vehicles. The MLX81113 uses silicon structure on insulating substrate (SOI) technology for extremely high EMC stability, thereby improving performance metrics and reducing the number of external components. In addition, the MLX81113 is designed to ISO 26262 rating, which facilitates system-level functional safety certification."

     The MLX81113 contains a complete LIN system, including transceivers and protocol handlers for connecting RGB environment modules to the vehicle's existing LIN network. The on-board system meets the requirements of LIN2.x and SAE J2602 standards and supports automatic addressing to achieve minimum module sizes and lowest bill of materials (BOM) costs.

     The MLX81113 uses the latest Silicon Structure on insulating substrate (SOI) technology with high voltage I/O to operate at power supply voltages as low as 4V, providing excellent performance even when the vehicle power supply voltage fluctuates, such as during start-stop operation. Safety features include 28V boost start and battery overvoltage and undervoltage detection. The MLX81113 is currently in production and meets the requirements of the AECQ-100 standard and PPAP. The MLX81113 is available in SOIC8 exposed pads and lead-free DFN10 3 mm x 3 mm heat enhanced package options for excellent heat dissipation performance.