ST' chip can control LED lamp brightness based on the already present light

STMicroelectronics has unveiled the world’s first programmable digital controller specifically optimized for lighting and power-supply applications. The new STLUX385 (Masterlux platform) features its STM8 microprocessor core and a set of peripherals to simplify design of the lighting power supply and digital control of the lights. Depending on factors such as the lighting technology used, the input power source (AC or DC), dimming requirements and safety or reliability issues, many different types of power conversion and control topologies are required in the current and emerging lighting applications and the STLUX385 is the first device able to address all of these via a single programmable chip, according to ST. “More than 20% of the electricity generated is used to light our homes, streets, offices, factories and public areas, and making lighting more efficient is an essential step on the path towards a sustainable world,” said Matteo Lo Presti, STMicroelectronics Group Vice President, Industrial & Power Conversion Division. “The STLUX385 distils 25 years of ST leadership in power conversion solutions into a single high value platform that customers can use to build more innovative and efficient lighting solutions.” The STLUX385 integrates six specially-designed peripherals called SMED (State Machine, Event-Driven) circuits that interact with each other and with extern...