The LX1686 Backlight Controller IC provides all the control functions needed to implement Linfinity's direct drive inverters used to operate cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFL's). This IC can be used to control single or multiple-lamp configurations. CCFL's are used for back or edge lighting of liquid crystal flat panel displays (LCD's) and typically find application in notebook computers, web browsers, automotive and industrial instrumentation, and entertainment systems. The LX1686 includes a PWM controlled lamp current burst circuit that can provide a >100:1 dimming range from a simple zero to 2.5V potentiometer input. The PWM dimming burst rate is easily synchronized to the LCD panel's frame rate to prevent interference from optical beat frequencies.