Microsemi intros mega-contrast dimming technology for LCD TVs

IRVINE, USA: Microsemi Corp., a leading manufacturer of high performance analog/mixed signal integrated circuits and high reliability semiconductors, announced the first in a new family of cold cathode fluorescent lamp (CCFL) backlight inverter controller products that feature advanced mega-contrast dimming technology that significantly improves display quality and performance for 26- to 37-inch LCD TVs.

Microsemi's new LX6523A CCFL inverter controller is the first to embed its patented PureBLACK mega-contrast dimming technology, developed by Dr. Xiaoping Jin, inventor of Microsemi's widely adopted Jin Balancer that dynamically adjusts lamp voltages to match multi-lamp currents to tight tolerances.

PureBLACK technology delivers superior black levels and dynamic contrast performance by building upon the Jin Balancer's ability to ensure lamp striking with very small duty cycles.

Microsemi plans to include its advanced mega-dimming capability in future controllers for 40-inch-and-larger displays that use the latest High Voltage LCD Integrated Power Supply (HV-LIPS) topology.

"We've taken another important step in CCFL backlight innovation with PureBLACK technology," said Tom Kapucija, director of marketing at Microsemi's Analog Mixed Signal Group. "It will enable high-end image quality across all display sizes and price points, demonstrating Microsemi's continuing commitment to extending performance/price capabilities while improving the consumer's visual experience," he said.

Microsemi's expanding family of backlighting, sensor and color-management system solutions drive both conventional and emerging high-efficiency LED backlight solutions in a wide variety of TV, notebook computer, automotive and other display platforms and applications.

The LX6523A controller features soft-start capability, fault indication, and flexible configuration support for push-pull, full-bridge or half-bridge drive topologies for ultra-low-cost displays solutions.

It provides all key functions needed for LCD TV/monitor displays in a simplified controller that also provides reliable lamp striking, comprehensive brightness control modes, and support for 24V inverter topologies in existing backlight applications. The LX6523A controller also features tighter lamp current accuracy as compared to competitive solutions.