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Semtech Expands Portfolio Of Integrated Passives With Two Advanced Devices For Microphone/Speaker Ports In Portable Electronics

New devices combine superior ESD protection and EMI/RFI filter performance with space-saving flip-chip packages|||Semtech, the Semtech logo, and ChipClamp are trademarks of Semtech Corporation.

Camarillo, California - July 31, 2002

Semtech Corp. (Nasdaq:SMTC), a leading supplier of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors for communications, portable devices, computers, and industrial equipment, today announced the SFC2280-10 and SFC2280-68, a duo of integrated passives intended for voltage protection and signal filtering for microphone/speaker ports in devices such as cell phones, personal digital assistants, mobile computers, digital camcorders, pagers, and MP3 players. The devices protect sensitive circuitry from electrostatic discharge (ESD), as well as filtering out electromagnetic interference/radio frequency interference (EMI/RFI) in incoming or outgoing audio signals. The transient voltage suppression (TVS) diode arrays are arranged in a bi-directional configuration to support bipolar audio signals without adding distortion. These twin-function devices not only reduce component count, but also feature ultra-compact flip-chip packages to save board space and trim overall design costs.

Representing the newest members of Semtech’s advanced ChipClamp™ family of flip-chip TVS products, the SFC2280x devices integrate superior bi-directional low-pass filters that provide minimal insertion loss in the pass band (0 to 10 MHz) and good attenuation at frequencies up to 3 GHz (e.g., 20 dB attenuation at 800 MHz). The ChipClamp family offers superior protection from ESD in excess of 15 kV (air discharge) and 8 kV (contact discharge), per IEC 61000-4-2, Level 4.

Each device protects a single pair of 5V signals. The SFC2280-10, which incorporates 10 Ohms of series resistance, is designed for speaker signals, while the 68-Ohm SFC2280-68 is optimized for standard microphone lines. Both devices feature a pair of reversed dual-stage TVS diodes per protected line for superior clamping that minimizes stress on sensitive CMOS circuitry during positive or negative voltage transient events. The flip-chip design minimizes parasitic inductance from wire connections, eliminating voltage overshoot problems that occur with conventional packages.

"The SFC2280 devices validate our commitment to integrate the industry’s leading protection technology with previously-discrete EMI/RFI filtering functions--a process begun last year with our introduction of the SFC2280-50," said Semtech’s Director of Protection Products, Tom Dugan. "Putting these passive functions together offers real value to the system designer. Integration of the filter function is particularly timely because it allows handset manufacturers to improve audio quality at the precise time when pending legislation abounds for hands-free cell phone use in autos."

Key Features of the SFC2280

• Dual-Line bi-directional ESD protection (to IEC 61000-4-2, Level 4) and EMI/RFI filtering
• Chip-scale packaging (1.5 x 1.0 x 0.65 mm maximum) uses minimum board space
• Replaces up to 10 discrete components
• Superior clamping performance improves overall system reliability
• Filter function provides very low insertion loss in pass band (zero to approx. 10MHz), high attenuation at 800 MHz to 3 GHz
• Designed for 5V working voltages (plus or minus)
• Evaluation boards available

Pricing and Availability

The SFC2280-10 and SFC2280-68 are available in sample quantities now, with production units scheduled for availability in early September 2002. Pricing for the device is $0.33 per unit in 10,000-unit quantities. Semtech offers comprehensive support to help customers integrate the SFC2280 devices into existing or planned system designs. Evaluation boards are also available. Datasheets can be downloaded at www.semtech.com.

About Semtech

Semtech Corporation is a leading supplier of high-quality analog and mixed-signal ICs for power management, over-voltage and transient protection, human interface devices & system management, test & measurement applications, and advanced communications. Publicly traded since 1967, Semtech is listed on the NASDAQ National Market under the symbol SMTC. For more information, contact Semtech Corporation at 200 Flynn Road, Camarillo, CA. 93012-8790; phone (805) 498-2111; email to info@semtech.com; or visit its Web site at www.semtech.com.

Semtech, the Semtech logo, and ChipClamp are trademarks of Semtech Corporation.

Press Contact

Terry Sears, Marketing Communications Manager, Telephone: 805.498.2111