“System-in-a-package” ballast IC for compact fluorescent lamps

The FAN7710 from Fairchild Semiconductor is said to be the most highly integrated ballast IC on the market specifically developed for compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) designs. Offering a “system-in-a-package” approach, the device optimizes performance while simplifying design and overcoming the space limitations of CFL lighting applications.

The FAN7710 combines one high-side 625V gate driver circuit, two 550V MOSFETs, a frequency control circuit and a shunt regulator –– plus the added features of active ZVS control and an open lamp detection function –– into one ultra-compact 8-DIP package. As the most integrated device among similar solutions, the FAN7710 helps designers simplify designs by reducing component count. The FAN7710’s high functionality and built-in protection features save board space, reduce power dissipation and result in excellent temperature characteristics and enhanced reliability in end systems.

Fairchild is also offering the FAN7711 for linear fluorescent lamp (LFL) designs as well as CFL applications. This ballast IC integrates all but the two high-power MOSFETs offered by the FAN7710 to make it better suited to LFL designs. The FAN7711 is available in both 8-DIP and 8-SOP packages.
Fairchild Semiconductor, www.fairchildsemi.com