Description

The A8837 is a highly integrated IC that charges photoflash capacitors for digital and film cameras. An integrated MOSFET switch drives the transformer in a flyback topology. It also features an integrated IGBT driver that facilitates the flash discharge function and saves board space.

The CHARGE pin enables the A8837 and starts the charging of the output capacitor. When the designated output voltage is reached, the A8837 stops the charging until the CHARGE pin is toggled again. The DONE pin is an open-drain indicator of when the designated output voltage is reached.

Features and Benefits

▪ Power with 1 Li+ or 2 Alkaline/NiMH/NiCAD batteries

▪ Eight-level, digitally-programmable current limits from

700 mA to 2 A

▪ Voltage sensing feedback before output diode for low

leakage

▪ Adjustable output voltage

▪ No primary-side Schottky diode needed

▪ Integrated IGBT driver with trigger

▪ Charge complete indication

▪ >75 efficiency

▪ Low-profile (0.75 mm high) 3 mm × 3 mm MLP/TDFN

10-contact package

Applications include the following:

▪ Digital camera flash

▪ Film camera flash

▪ Cell phone flash

▪ Emergency strobe light