Analog Devices Inc. LT3003EMSE#PBF
- Part No.:
- LT3003EMSE#PBF
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Category:
- LED Drivers
- Package:
- 10-TFSOP, 10-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
LT3003EMSE#PBF.pdf
- Description:
- IC LED DRV RGLTR PWM 10MSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:300
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Product details
Overview
LT3003EMSE#PBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a 3-channel, high-accuracy LED ballast IC that delivers up to 350mA per string with ±3% current matching across channels, operates from 3V to 40V input, supports buck/boost/buck-boost topologies, and enables true-color PWM dimming up to 3000:1 - used in TFT LCD backlighting and automotive LED lighting systems.
For engineers reviewing the LT3003EMSE#PBF datasheet, LT3003EMSE#PBF pinout, LT3003EMSE#PBF application, or LT3003EMSE#PBF equivalent, key selection criteria include verified 3-channel current matching tolerance, confirmed overtemperature flag behavior (OT1/OT2), validated PWM dimming architecture across all operating modes, and thermally enhanced MSE package thermal resistance (θJA = 35°C/W).
Technical Context
The LT3003EMSE#PBF implements a servo-loop ballasting architecture where LED2 current serves as the reference for actively regulating LED1 and LED3 currents via internal comparators and bias circuitry. It requires no external ballast resistors and achieves matching independent of VLED mismatch up to 700mV total differential.
Its dual open-collector overtemperature outputs (OT1 sinks 100µA, OT2 sinks 300µA at >125°C) provide differentiated system-level thermal management: OT1 signals microprocessors, while OT2 directly defeats switching regulator error amplifiers. Shutdown occurs at 150°C junction temperature.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Max LED current per channel | 350mA continuous; absolute fault limit 550mA per pin |
| LED current matching | ±3% over temperature; holds with ≤700mV total VLED mismatch between strings |
| PWM dimming ratio | Up to 3000:1 in boost/buck modes; 2000:1 in buck-boost mode using tied PWM/SHDN |
| Input voltage range | 3V to 40V VIN; supports operation with (VIN – VEE) ≥ 3V and ≤ 36V |
| Overtemperature threshold | 125°C activation with 6°C hysteresis; second-stage shutdown at 150°C |
| Package thermal resistance | θJA = 35°C/W with exposed pad soldered to PCB ground plane |
| Quiescent current (active) | 10.5mA typical at ILED = 100mA; drops to 4µA in shutdown |
Pinout & Package
The LT3003EMSE#PBF is housed in a thermally enhanced 10-lead MSOP (MSE) package with an exposed pad (Pin 11) that must be soldered to PCB ground for thermal performance. θJA = 35°C/W is achieved only when the exposed pad is properly connected.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| LED1, LED2, LED3 (Pins 1–3) | Current-sink outputs for LED strings | Each delivers regulated current up to 350mA; cathodes connect directly to pins |
| VMAX (Pin 4) | Mode-select voltage reference node | Connected to VOUT in boost, to VIN in buck, or to VOUT in buck-boost |
| VIN (Pin 5) | Main power rail input | Powers internal control circuitry; requires local 1µF bypass capacitor to GND |
| PWM (Pin 6) | Digital dimming control input | 0.5V threshold; disconnects all LED strings when low; internal 10µA pull-up if open |
| OT1, OT2 (Pins 7–8) | Open-collector overtemperature flags | OT1 sinks 100µA, OT2 sinks 300µA when TJ > 125°C; both reset at 119°C |
| SHDN (Pin 9) | Micropower enable/disable input | <0.7V disables IC; draws 4µA when pulled low; ties to PWM in buck-boost mode |
| VEE (Pin 10) | Lower rail reference | Ground in boost, inductor node in buck, input supply in buck-boost |
| Exposed Pad (Pin 11) | Thermal and electrical ground | Must be soldered to continuous copper ground plane; not optional for thermal integrity |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| 3-channel current matching | ±3% matching maintained across temperature and VLED mismatch - eliminates factory calibration of external ballast resistors |
| Multi-topology operation | Single IC supports buck, boost, and buck-boost configurations via pin-strapping - avoids topology-specific redesign |
| True-color PWM dimming | 3000:1 ratio without color shift; logic-level 0.5V threshold eliminates need for external level-shifting circuitry |
| Dual overtemperature outputs | OT1 (100µA) for MCU interrupt signaling; OT2 (300µA) for direct gm-error amplifier defeat - enables layered thermal response |
| Low leakage during PWM off | VEE and VMAX pin currents drop to nanoamp range ~10µs after PWM edge - preserves output capacitor voltage for high dimming ratios |
Applications
| TFT LCD Backlighting | Automotive Headlamp Control |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Driving 24-LED arrays (8×3) in notebook or monitor displays with uniform brightness and minimal thermal drift. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision current balancer for three parallel LED strings; references LED2 to servo-regulate LED1/LED3. Use Value: Eliminates brightness variation across display zones; enables 3000:1 dimming for ambient light adaptation without color distortion. |
Use Scenario: Controlling multi-string LED headlamps in vehicles requiring ASIL-B compatible thermal monitoring and fail-safe current cutoff. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability LED current manager with dual OT flags for redundant thermal supervision and automatic current shutdown above 125°C. Use Value: Prevents LED overheating under sustained high-brightness operation; OT2 integration allows immediate switching regulator disable to avoid thermal runaway. |
| Industrial Video Camera Illumination | Heads-Up Display (HUD) Lighting |
|
Use Scenario: Powering high-CRI LED arrays in machine vision cameras where consistent color rendering and flicker-free dimming are critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Constant-current sink with true-color PWM dimming; maintains spectral fidelity across 100Hz–1kHz dimming frequencies. Use Value: Enables precise exposure control without introducing color shift or temporal artifacts during high-speed image capture. |
Use Scenario: Driving compact, high-luminance LED strings in automotive HUDs where space constraints demand thermally efficient packaging. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Thermally optimized 3-channel ballaster in MSE package; exposed pad reduces junction-to-ambient resistance to 35°C/W. Use Value: Sustains 350mA/channel operation in confined enclosures; integrated 150°C emergency shutdown prevents permanent optical module damage. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 3-channel LED ballasting applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LTC3205 | Integrated fractional charge pump; supports only 2.8V–4.5V input; no buck/boost capability | Targeted at low-voltage portable displays; lacks overtemperature flag outputs and multi-topology flexibility | Select LTC3205 only for battery-powered single-supply designs where input voltage is tightly constrained and thermal flagging is not required. |
| LT3475 | 2-channel synchronous buck LED driver; integrates power MOSFETs; supports 400:1 analog + 3000:1 PWM dimming | Requires external ballast for third string; no native 3-channel matching; higher quiescent current (5mA vs 10.5mA active) | Choose LT3475 when driving two high-current strings with integrated switching and third string is managed separately - not a drop-in replacement for LT3003EMSE#PBF's matched 3-channel function. |
Compared with LTC3205 and LT3475, the LT3003EMSE#PBF uniquely delivers guaranteed ±3% 3-channel matching across topologies, dual-purpose OT flags for hardware-level thermal intervention, and seamless 3000:1 PWM dimming without external level shifters - making it the only solution qualified for high-reliability, multi-string backlighting where uniformity and thermal robustness are non-negotiable.
Availability
LT3003EMSE#PBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for TFT LCD backlighting, automotive LED lighting, and industrial video camera illumination requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for LT3003EMSE#PBF 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
Analog Devices acquired Linear Technology in 2017 and maintains full technical and manufacturing continuity for legacy Linear products including the LT3003 series.
The LT3003 product line was designed specifically for high-accuracy, multi-string LED current balancing in space-constrained, thermally demanding applications such as automotive lighting and display backlighting - emphasizing matching precision, topology flexibility, and integrated thermal protection.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous LED current per channel for the LT3003EMSE#PBF?
The LT3003EMSE#PBF delivers up to 350mA continuous current per LED channel (LED1/LED2/LED3) under normal operation. Its internal protection limits absolute maximum pin current to 550mA, providing margin against transient overloads. This rating assumes proper thermal management - specifically, soldering the exposed pad to a PCB ground plane to maintain θJA ≤ 35°C/W.
Does the LT3003EMSE#PBF require external ballast resistors for current matching?
No, the LT3003EMSE#PBF does not require external ballast resistors. It uses an internal servo-loop architecture where LED2 current acts as the reference to actively regulate LED1 and LED3, achieving ±3% matching without factory calibration. This eliminates resistor tolerance errors, thermal drift, and board space consumed by discrete ballasts - a core design advantage over conventional multi-string drivers.
How does the LT3003EMSE#PBF achieve 3000:1 PWM dimming without color shift?
The LT3003EMSE#PBF achieves true-color 3000:1 PWM dimming by fully disconnecting LED strings when the PWM pin falls below 0.5V - ensuring zero current flow and preserving LED spectral characteristics. Its internal level-shifting circuitry accepts logic-level signals regardless of VEE voltage, and nanoamp-level leakage on VEE/VMAX pins ~10µs after PWM edge prevents residual current that would degrade dimming ratio or cause color shift.
What is the functional difference between OT1 and OT2 on the LT3003EMSE#PBF?
OT1 and OT2 are both open-collector outputs activated when junction temperature exceeds 125°C, but they differ in sink capability and system role: OT1 sinks 100µA and is intended for microprocessor interrupt signaling, while OT2 sinks 300µA and is designed to directly pull down the gm-error amplifier output of compatible LED drivers (e.g., LT3477) to disable switching. Both reset at 119°C, enabling tiered thermal response.
Can the LT3003EMSE#PBF operate in buck-boost mode, and what are the pin connections?
Yes, the LT3003EMSE#PBF supports buck-boost operation. In this mode, the PWM and SHDN pins must be tied together, VMAX connects to VOUT, VIN connects to VOUT, and VEE connects to the input supply. This configuration enables LED strings to be returned to the input rail instead of ground - avoiding SEPIC complexity while supporting input voltages both above and below LED string voltage.
LT3003EMSE#PBF Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc.
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 10-TFSOP, 10-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- DC DC Regulator
- Topology:
- Step-Down (Buck), Step-Up (Boost)
- Internal Switch(s):
- Yes
- Number of Outputs:
- 3
- Voltage - Supply (Min):
- 3V
- Voltage - Supply (Max):
- 40V
- Voltage - Output:
- -
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 350mA
- Frequency:
- -
- Dimming:
- PWM
- Applications:
- Backlight
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 10-MSOP-EP
LT3003EMSE#PBF FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LT3003EMSE#PBF through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LT3003EMSE#PBF 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 LT3003EMSE#PBF reliable?
The price and inventory of LT3003EMSE#PBF are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LT3003EMSE#PBF is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LT3003EMSE#PBF?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LT3003EMSE#PBF transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LT3003EMSE#PBF?
LT3003EMSE#PBF orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LT3003EMSE#PBF 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 LT3003EMSE#PBF?
For technical support, including LT3003EMSE#PBF datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LT3003EMSE#PBF requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LT3003EMSE#PBF is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LT3003EMSE#PBF 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 LT3003EMSE#PBF meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LT3003EMSE#PBF?
All LT3003EMSE#PBF units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LT3003EMSE#PBF, 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 LT3003EMSE#PBF part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LT3003EMSE#PBF:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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