Keywords LED, LED driver, mains, dimming, dimmable, LED lighting, LED lamp,
SMPS, SSL2101, power conversion, flyback, power factor
Abstract This document describes how to design a mains dimmable LED driver
using the NXP SSL2101 LED Driver IC in flyback mode. It includes a
description of how mains dimmer compatibility is achieved

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) have been used in electronic systems for many years,
primarily as indicator lights on electronic devices. Recent advances in terms of brightness
and available colors mean that LEDs can now be used in a wide range of applications -
from fun lighting in cell phones and media players to replacing conventional light sources
in commercial and domestic lighting applications.
Key enablers driving the expansion of LED lighting are the availability of high brightness
LEDs and intelligent LED controllers. Product designers incorporating high brightness
LEDs face many challenges. Among them are thermal management, driver
scheme/topology and existing infrastructure.
To replace an existing dimmable incandescent or halogen light source, an electronic lamp
driver system must be implemented that can operate with the existing dimmer switch
while replicating the dimming behavior of the existing light source. The NXP SSL2101 IC
provides this functionality and, in addition, is an efficient power converter. It is the first IC
to combine these capabilities, enabling the lamp/module designer to integrate electronics
in a cost- and size-effective way, whilst benefitting from optimal thermal trade-off.