Renesas IW3638-02A
- Part No.:
- IW3638-02A
- Manufacturer:
- Renesas
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
IW3638-02A.pdf
- Description:
- HIGH-POWER STEP-DOWN LED DRIVER
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,941
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
iW3638-02A from Renesas Electronics is a high-power, non-isolated buck LED driver IC optimized for constant-current LED regulation from DC supplies up to 30V. It delivers ±3% output current accuracy without external voltage/current feedback components or loop compensation, supports 1–100% PWM dimming via dual interfaces (DIM1 and NTC/DIM2), and operates in an SOIC-8 package with integrated over-temperature, open-circuit, over-voltage, short-circuit, and under-voltage protections.
For engineers reviewing the iW3638-02A datasheet, iW3638-02A pinout, iW3638-02A application, or iW3638-02A equivalent, key selection considerations include its NTC-based thermal derating configuration, 0ms light-off delay, PrimAccurate™ sensing architecture, and compatibility with wireless, 0–10V, and 3-in-1 dimming systems in commercial T8 and fixture-integrated lighting.
Technical Context
The iW3638-02A implements cycle-by-cycle peak current control using ISENSE for switch current sensing and VSENSE for output voltage monitoring, enabling stable buck regulation without external compensation. Its dual-dimming architecture separates primary PWM control (DIM1) from secondary configuration (NTC/DIM2), where the -02A variant configures NTC-based temperature sensing with zero-delay light-off activation.
It integrates soft-start, soft-off, single-point fault protection (output open/short, OVP, UVLO), and supports active start-up using depletion-mode or enhancement-mode FETs. The IC operates across –40°C to +150°C junction temperature with 170°C/W θJA and requires no external feedback resistors or compensation network.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCC Range | 7.5V to 30V - powers internal circuitry directly from post-regulated DC bus without LDO overhead |
| Output Current Accuracy | ±3% - achieved via PrimAccurate™ sensing, eliminating need for shunt resistor calibration |
| Dimming Range | 1% to 100% - full-range PWM dimming with configurable minimum level (dim-to-off, 1%, 5%, or 10%) |
| Light-off Delay | 0 ms - immediate transition to low-power light-off mode upon DIM1 deactivation |
| Thermal Sensing | NTC interface on Pin 1 - enables real-time LED thermal derating without external ADC or microcontroller |
| Fault Protections | Integrated OVP, UVLO, output open/short, OTP - reduces BOM count and improves system reliability |
| Package | SOIC-8 - supports up to 90W output power with standard PCB layout and thermal relief design |
Pinout & Package
Package: 8-lead SOIC-8, surface-mount, RoHS-compliant, with exposed pad for thermal enhancement (not electrically connected).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 - NTC/DIM2 | Multi-function analog/digital input | Configured as NTC interface for thermal derating; no external biasing required; enables automatic current reduction at elevated temperatures |
| 2 - ISENSE | Current sense input | Connects to source of external MOSFET for cycle-by-cycle peak current limiting and startup configuration |
| 3 - GND | Power ground | Reference node for all analog and digital circuitry; must be low-impedance connection to minimize noise coupling |
| 4 - OUTPUT | High-side gate driver output | Drives external N-channel MOSFET gate; capable of fast switching with integrated drive strength suitable for >90W operation |
| 5 - VCC | IC power supply | Accepts 7.5–30V DC; powers internal regulators and logic; bypass capacitor required per layout guidelines |
| 6 - VSENSE | Voltage sense input | Monitors LED string voltage for regulation and fault detection; used during startup to configure operating mode |
| 7 - VIN | Input bus sense/start-up control | Detects input rail presence and controls active start-up devices (e.g., depletion-FET); enables reliable cold-start behavior |
| 8 - DIM1 | PWM dimming input | Accepts 0–7V logic-level PWM signal; triggers immediate dimming response with fast transient recovery |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| PrimAccurate™ sensing | Eliminates external current-sense resistor and voltage-divider feedback network, reducing component count and board space |
| Dual dimming interface | Independent DIM1 (primary PWM) and NTC/DIM2 (secondary thermal or analog dimming) enable multi-source control without external logic |
| 0 ms light-off delay | Instantaneous shutdown sequence minimizes residual glow in architectural and retail lighting applications requiring precise timing |
| Single-point fault protection | On-chip detection and latch-off for output open, short, over-voltage, under-voltage, and over-temperature - no external supervisor IC needed |
| Configurable dimming curve | Linear or logarithmic transfer function selectable via startup pin strapping, matching human eye perception in dimming applications |
Applications
| 0–10V Dimmable LED Drivers | Commercial T8 LED Fixtures |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Retrofitting legacy fluorescent T8 ballasts with digitally controllable LED drivers in office and retail spaces. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary buck controller regulating constant current to LED strings while accepting 0–10V analog dimming signals via iW339-series interface. Use Value: Enables flicker-free dimming down to 1% with ±3% current accuracy and built-in thermal foldback via NTC/DIM2 pin. | Use Scenario: Integrated LED tube drivers requiring compact form factor, high efficiency, and compliance with DLC and Energy Star standards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Second-stage buck regulator post-regulating from flyback AC/DC stage; provides tight current regulation without optical feedback. Use Value: SOIC-8 footprint supports >90W output in thermally constrained T8 envelopes; soft-off eliminates afterglow during rapid on/off cycling. |
| Wireless Smart Lighting Systems | Industrial Fixture-Integrated Drivers |
Use Scenario: Bluetooth/Zigbee-enabled luminaires where MCU or wireless module drives PWM dimming directly. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: LED current controller interfacing with wireless SoC's GPIO; DIM1 accepts direct PWM, NTC/DIM2 enables local thermal override. Use Value: Fast dimming transient response (<100 µs) ensures smooth brightness transitions; 0 ms light-off prevents ghosting in motion-triggered lighting. | Use Scenario: High-bay and parking garage fixtures exposed to wide ambient temperature swings and vibration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust LED driver with integrated NTC-based thermal management and single-point fault protection for unattended operation. Use Value: Eliminates need for external temperature sensor and protection IC; operates reliably from –40°C to +150°C junction temperature. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver controller applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MP4651GQ | Lacks integrated NTC interface; requires external thermistor conditioning and comparator circuit for thermal foldback | No native support for 0 ms light-off or configurable dimming curves; limited to fixed 1–100% linear dimming | Choose MP4651GQ only if thermal derating is handled externally and SOIC-8 thermal performance is not critical |
| LM3409HV | Analog-only dimming interface (no dedicated PWM pin); no built-in soft-off or light-off mode; requires external compensation | Designed for automotive LED headlight applications; lacks integrated fault protection for open/short LED conditions | Select LM3409HV when operating above 30V input or requiring AEC-Q100 qualification; not suitable for flicker-sensitive indoor lighting |
Compared with MP4651GQ and LM3409HV, the iW3638-02A uniquely integrates NTC-based thermal management, 0 ms light-off, and dual-dimming flexibility in SOIC-8-enabling simpler, more reliable designs for commercial and smart lighting where flicker, thermal safety, and fast dimming response are critical.
Availability
iW3638-02A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for commercial LED retrofitting, smart lighting systems, and industrial fixture-integrated drivers requiring stable component supply, consistent thermal derating behavior, and zero-delay light-off functionality.
Supply support for iW3638-02A includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Renesas Electronics is a global semiconductor leader delivering trusted embedded solutions, including microcontrollers, analog, power management, and timing devices for industrial, automotive, and IoT markets.
The iW3638-02A belongs to Renesas' Intelligent LED Driver family, designed specifically for high-efficiency, flicker-free, thermally adaptive constant-current LED regulation in commercial and smart lighting applications.
FAQ
What is the primary function of the NTC/DIM2 pin on the iW3638-02A?
The NTC/DIM2 pin (Pin 1) on the iW3638-02A is configured exclusively for NTC-based thermal sensing in this variant. It enables automatic LED current derating in response to rising temperature without external circuitry. Unlike other iW3638 variants, the -02A version disables PWM and analog dimming functions on this pin, dedicating it solely to NTC interface with internal biasing and threshold detection - a key differentiator for thermally demanding fixture applications.
How does the iW3638-02A achieve ±3% output current accuracy without external sense resistors?
The iW3638-02A achieves ±3% output current accuracy using Renesas' PrimAccurate™ technology, which performs direct sensing of MOSFET RDS(on) voltage drop and dynamically compensates for temperature and process variation. This eliminates the need for a precision external current-sense resistor and associated signal conditioning, reducing BOM cost and layout sensitivity while maintaining regulation accuracy across line, load, and temperature.
Does the iW3638-02A require external loop compensation components?
No, the iW3638-02A does not require external loop compensation components. Its internal control architecture embeds adaptive compensation that maintains stability across all operating conditions - including full input voltage range (7.5–30V), output current loads, and temperature extremes. This simplifies design, reduces PCB area, and eliminates tuning effort typically required for traditional current-mode buck controllers.
What is the significance of the "0 ms light-off delay" specified for the iW3638-02A?
"0 ms light-off delay" means the iW3638-02A initiates its soft-off sequence immediately upon removal of the DIM1 PWM signal - with no intentional hold-off time. This enables instantaneous termination of LED current, preventing residual glow or ghosting in applications like motion-sensor lighting, theatrical cues, or retail accent lighting where precise temporal control is essential. The feature is factory-configured and cannot be adjusted.
Can the iW3638-02A be used with both depletion-mode and enhancement-mode FETs for active start-up?
Yes, the iW3638-02A supports both depletion-mode and enhancement-mode FETs for active start-up via the VIN pin (Pin 7). The IC detects input bus presence and drives the external FET accordingly - enabling reliable cold-start behavior even with low-input-voltage conditions. Reference schematics in the product summary confirm implementation with either FET type, and no external gate driver is required.
IW3638-02A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Renesas
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- DC DC Controller
- Topology:
- Flyback, Step-Down (Buck)
- Internal Switch(s):
- No
- Number of Outputs:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 7.5V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 30V
- Voltage - Output:
- 30V
- Current - Output / Channel:
- -
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- Analog, PWM
- Applications:
- LED Lighting
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
IW3638-02A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for IW3638-02A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for IW3638-02A on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for IW3638-02A reliable?
The price and inventory of IW3638-02A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for IW3638-02A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for IW3638-02A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for IW3638-02A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for IW3638-02A?
IW3638-02A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your IW3638-02A order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for IW3638-02A?
For technical support, including IW3638-02A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your IW3638-02A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that IW3638-02A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All IW3638-02A products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that IW3638-02A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of IW3638-02A?
All IW3638-02A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with IW3638-02A, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The IW3638-02A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for IW3638-02A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
IW3638-02A Tags

-
BCR402RE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR430UXTSA2
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR420UE6433HTMA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR420UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
BCR421UE6327HTSA1
Infineon Technologies

-
LYT1604D-TL
Power Integrations

-
HV9910CLG-G
Microchip Technology

-
CL2N8-G
Microchip Technology

-
BCR420UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR421UW6-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR420UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated

-
BCR421UFD-7
Diodes Incorporated
Tech Hub
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…

