SparkFun LED Driver Breakout - LP55231

The SparkFun LP55231 LED Driver Breakout is a compact and complete solution for creating a nine-channel I²C LED controller. The breakout is primarily equipped with the LP55231 LED controller IC and three RGB LEDs. It also has pads and jumpers that allow for the replacement of onboard LEDs with external ones and for configuring the I²C bus, enabling the daisy-chaining of up to four LP55231s. The breakout uses Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to drive the LEDs, making it ideal for applications requiring variable intensity and color-mixing.

The SparkFun LP55231 LED Driver Breakout was initially created for use in mobile devices and automotive applications. As such, it is designed to provide a subtle rather than overpowering brightness. It boasts two unique features. Firstly, it has an onboard charge-pump power supply that enables it to drive LEDs with a forward voltage higher than the power supply voltage. Secondly, it features an LED offload engine, a microcontroller dedicated to LED operations. This feature allows the LP55231 to independently execute LED operations such as chases, blinks, and fades, without the need for support from the host microcontroller.

With the SparkFun LP55231 LED Driver Breakout, you can create dynamic lighting effects without needing extensive resources. Its compact design and unique features make it a versatile tool for a wide range of applications, from enhancing your DIY projects to creating eye-catching displays for commercial products. Plus, its ability to drive LEDs with a higher forward voltage opens up a world of possibilities for innovative lighting solutions.

Documents:

• Schematic
• Eagle Files
• Hookup Guide
• All About LEDs
• Datasheet (LP55231)
• GitHub