EEMPL have announced that they are now supplying inductors specifically for use with LED’s in Automotive specification.
The LED has become the preferred lighting source in Automotive applications. The benefits of small form-factor, high efficiency and low power consumption has seen their deployment in all Automotive applications including Head Lights, Day time lights, Fog lamps, Indicators, cabin and dashboard lighting.
LEDs require a DC/DC driver circuit where inductors are used for energy storage. Making them a critical component in this application. Typical circuit designs include Buck, Boost, Buck-Boost, Flyback, Forward and SEPIC (Single Ended Primary Inductance Converter). SEPIC is the most popular as it enables output voltage to vary from the input whilst polarity in unchanged. Usually two inductors, in a single package, are used to minimise board space and leakage inductance.
Typical LED circuit schematic
The impact of the inductor to the efficient operating of these circuits is a major consideration. Depending on the driver circuits ,inductors can be used with LEDs either separately, in parallel or in series. The current rating of the inductor is a key parameter to ensure correct operations and prevent saturation. To allow for sufficient margin it is suggested to always consider the Isat of the inductor. Ambient temperature, inductor temperature range and inductor self-heating are all closely associated with saturation.
Other aspects of inductor design to consider include whether or not a shielded type needed to minimise the effect of any noise in the circuit? Also, DCR may affect performance and it is suggested to check with if the IC driver supplier has any recommendations on these parameters.
E&E Magnetic Products Ltd has been supplying inductors for Automotive applications for many years and has developed our ARIS and ASIS standard and custom ranges featuring high Isat in a wide choice of inductance values, with temperature ranges from -55’C to +165’C (size dependant). Products are AEC-Q200 compliant and manufactured in our IATF16949:2016 qualified production facilities.
Our product specialists can assist with your requirements and arrange for samples for testing.