Melexis launches multi-channel LIN RGB LED controller, which raises the level of automotive environmental lighting technology to a new level

Melexis, a global microelectronics engineering company, announced today that it has launched the MLX81118 multi-channel LIN RGB LED controller chip with 24 LED driver outputs to further promote creative dynamic automotive lighting design. MLX81118 can drive 8 RGB channels, which reduces the cost of the bill of materials and simplifies the cutting-edge lighting design inside and outside the car. In addition, MLX81118 also adds dual input voltage function, which can significantly reduce LED power consumption for LIN applications.

Melexis has further expanded the product series by launching the multi-channel LIN RGB LED controller chip MLX81118 for indoor ambient lighting and dynamic lighting applications in the LIN ecosystem. MLX81118 has 24 outputs (each output can provide up to 60mA of current), which can drive eight RGB channels. Independent PWM control and up to 16-bit resolution configuration enable this controller to achieve any color point and brightness.

MLX81118 is a powerful supplement to Melexis MLX81115 and MLX81113 to meet a variety of different application requirements. MLX81113 is mainly used for traditional car ambient lighting functions, while MLX81118 is widely used in applications that require one or more Modules to control multiple RGB LEDs through a LIN node, such as door trim or instrument panel applications. Multi-channel support means that the MLX81118 is also suitable for dynamic lighting effects achieved through LIN control.

In addition to reducing the bill of materials and simplifying the design of multi-channel internal and external lighting systems, the MLX81118 also reduces LED power consumption, thanks to the newly added dual input voltage function, which optimizes the driving voltage of the connected LED. This helps simplify thermal management, improve module reliability, and reduce power consumption at the same time.

The built-in direct and indirect temperature monitoring allows temperature compensation for all channels to ensure a stable color point over the entire temperature operating range of -40°C to 125°C.

The newly launched MLX81118 is based on Melexis’s LIN RGB LED controller, with various verified functions. It has a built-in complete LIN system, including a transceiver and protocol processor, for connecting the LED module to the vehicle’s LIN network. The LIN interface complies with the LIN2.x and SAE J2602 standards and the ISO 18987 standard, and supports automatic addressing according to the bus parallel mode.

LED control is handled by Melexis’ MLX16 FX 16-bit RISC microcontroller and on-chip memory subsystem. The on-chip memory subsystem is equipped with 2KB RAM and 32KB flash memory (used to store application programs and LED calibration coefficients) and real EEPROM (used to store additional Customer data). In addition, MLX81118 meets the requirements of ISO 26262, which can satisfy the use of functional safety systems.

“MLX81118 supports highly flexible control, can achieve creative lighting effects, leading the trend of style. With new functions such as support for eight RGB channel output and precise control of color and brightness, designers can add personalization and enhance safety.” Melexis LIN product line manager Michael Bender said, “At the same time, we have added some features to improve reliability, simplify thermal management, and maximize temperature stability, resulting in an excellent user experience.”

The MLX81118 is manufactured using advanced silicon-on-insulator (SOI) technology, has high-voltage I/O, can work at a power supply voltage as low as 4V, and can maintain stable performance when the vehicle power supply voltage fluctuates (such as during stop-start operation). Built-in protection functions include 28V jump start, and battery overvoltage and undervoltage detection.

This product has a complete tool chain, including evaluation boards, in-Circuit emulators and C compiler packages, which can help accelerate application development. It also provides basic software including LIN driver, color mixing, math library and IC initialization routines.

In order to better support customers, Melexis can provide customized application software support when needed.

MLX81118 has now passed relevant certifications and complies with AECQ-100 vehicle regulations and PPAP requirements. This product uses a space-saving leadless QFN32 5mm x 5mm thermally enhanced package.