Infineon TLD7002-16ES: A High-Performance 16-Channel LED Driver for Advanced Automotive Lighting Systems
The evolution of automotive lighting from simple illumination to a dynamic communication and styling element demands increasingly sophisticated electronic control. At the heart of this transformation are advanced LED drivers, and the Infineon TLD7002-16ES stands out as a premier solution engineered for next-generation applications. This 16-channel linear LED driver integrates unparalleled performance, diagnostic intelligence, and robust protection, making it an ideal cornerstone for modern automotive lighting systems.
Unmatched Integration and Precision Control
The TLD7002-16ES consolidates control for up to 16 individual LED strings into a single package, significantly reducing the system's component count and PCB footprint. Each channel can be independently controlled via a serial peripheral interface (SPI), enabling high-resolution individual brightness adjustment through 12-bit pulse-width modulation (PWM) dimming. This granular control is essential for complex functions like matrix LED headlights, where precise beam shaping is required to avoid dazzling other drivers, and for creating intricate welcome sequences or dynamic turn signals.
Enhanced Diagnostics and Functional Safety
A key differentiator of this driver is its comprehensive suite of diagnostic and protection features, which are critical for achieving Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL) readiness. The IC continuously monitors each channel for open-load, short-to-ground, and short-to-battery conditions. It can also detect LED forward voltage drops and overall system temperature. This real-time diagnostic capability ensures system reliability and simplifies the development process for safety-critical applications, providing the data needed to meet stringent automotive standards.

Robust Performance in Harsh Environments
Designed for the rigorous automotive environment, the TLD7002-16ES operates reliably over a wide temperature range and is resistant to electrical transients. Its advanced thermal management system, including a shared power stage and global temperature monitoring with warning and shutdown thresholds, prevents overheating and ensures long-term durability. This robustness guarantees consistent performance for exterior lighting applications such as headlights, tail lights, and daytime running lights (DRLs), which are exposed to extreme conditions.
Driving the Future of Automotive Lighting
The move towards adaptive driving beams (ADB), personalized lighting signatures, and enhanced vehicle communication is accelerating. The TLD7002-16ES is not just a driver but an enabling technology for these innovations. Its ability to independently and accurately manage a large number of LEDs with built-in intelligence empowers designers to push the boundaries of what is possible in automotive light design, functionality, and safety.
The Infineon TLD7002-16ES is a highly integrated, intelligent 16-channel LED driver that sets a new benchmark for performance and reliability in advanced automotive lighting. Its combination of precise control, extensive diagnostics, and robust design makes it a pivotal component for developing sophisticated, safe, and dynamic lighting systems that define the modern vehicle.
Keywords: Automotive LED Driver, Functional Safety (ASIL), PWM Dimming, Diagnostic Features, Matrix Headlights
