In summary, the LT3518 offers a very simple, compact LED driver solution for a wide array of applications which can use buck, buck-boost, boost, or SEPIC topologies. It offers both wide ratio 3,000:1 dimming or very simple 10:1 dimming ratios as a function of the CNTRL pin. The constant current regulation ensures uniform brightness of the LEDs in a single string and the single wire LED capability allows the LED to use a common ground, thus eliminating any need for a return ground wire. Open LED and short circuit protection enhance the ruggedness of the overall solution. Applications include automotive interior and exterior lighting which are required to operate in a very harsh physical and electrical environment, industrial applications which require very precise current matching, and commercial applications which demand very compact and reliable solutions footprints.

