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Rev. 2/16/01 SP4439 Ultra-Quiet Electroluminescent Lamp Driver With Programmable Waveshape Copyright 2001 Sipex Corporation
8
Figure 6. Evaluation Board Layout for the SP4439.
EVALUATION BOARD LAYOUT
(ENLARGED)
EVALUATION BOARD LAYOUT
(ACTUAL SIZE)
Close attention should be given to the mounting
of the filter capacitor where the mounting can act
as an amplifier, such as in a speaker box. Film
capacitors do not exhibit audio noise concerns
but certain ceramic capacitors subjected to a
high voltage source can exhibit a piezoelectric
effect. This can be a source of concern in the
audio range.
The EL lamp itself can also exhibit audible noise
as a result of high voltage swings at frequencies
within the audio range. Close attention should
be given to the physical mounting of the EL lamp
to diminish this concern that can generate both
EMI and audio noise.
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
Considerations:
Electromagnetic Interference
(EMI) concerns are rooted in uncontrolled high
voltage swings on the EL lamp. The controlled
charging and dischanging of the EL lamp by the
SP4439 minimizes EMI effects.
Printed Circuit Board Layout Suggestions
:
The SP4439's high voltage operation makes PC
layout important for minimizing ground bounce
and noise. Keep the IC's GND pin and the
ground leads of C1 and C
less than 0.2 in
(5mm) apart. Also keep the connections to
COIL as short as possible. To maximize output
power and efficiency and minimize output ripple
voltage, use a ground plane and solder the IC's
V
SS
directly to the ground plane.
EL Lamp Driver Design Challenges
There are many variables which can be optimized
for specific applications. The amount of light
emitted is a function of the voltage applied to the
lamp, the frequency at which it is applied, the
lamp material and the lamp size.
A number of characterization curves to assist in
the selection of lamp size and performance
optimization have been included here (Figures 8
to 17). In addition, Sipex
will perform customer
application evaluations, using the customer's
actual EL lamp to determine the optimum
operating conditions for specific applications.
For customers considering an EL backlighting
solution for the first time, Sipex
is able to offer
retrofitted solutions to the customer's existing
LED or non-backlit product for a thorough
electrical and cosmetic evaluation. Refer to
Figure 6
for an enlargement and actual size
evaluation board layout. Please contact your
local Sales Representative for Sipex or the Sipex
factory directly to initiate this valued service.