Semtech adds low-power 300MHz-510MHz transceiver and receiver to ISM band RF platform

CAMARILLO, USA: Semtech Corp., a leading supplier of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors, announced the SX1212 UHF transceiver and SX1213 UHF receiver, two new devices in the company’s RF solutions platform that boast the industry’s lowest receive current consumption.

The SX1212 is a single-chip transceiver that operates in the 300MHz to 510MHz frequency range with a receive current of only 2.5 mA (typ). The SX1213 is a single-chip receiver for the same frequency range and with the same low receive current level. Both devices are designed for wireless alarm, security, sensors network in home automation and automated meter reading applications.

The receive current of the SX1212 and SX1213 is five to six times better than competing devices meaning customers can increase the operating cycle of the radios in their designs which reduces latency and improves response time. These elements are critical in security applications where a reduced operating cycle can mean missed alarm events.

The new devices allow customers to turn to Semtech for low-power RF solutions spanning the entire industrial, scientific and medical (ISM) RF band. They complement the SX1211, a transceiver that operates in the 863-960 MHz frequency range and features a receive current of less than 3.0 mA. All of the products are pin compatible.

“The low receive current of the SX1212 and SX1213 removes a limiting factor to innovation in the wireless control industry, which we think will lead to breakthrough systems that make use of a high receiver on time,” said Marc Pégulu, Semtech Industrial Analog product line manager.

“For example, next generation energy harvesting solutions can leverage these devices in motion detectors and wireless remote controls to provide improved lighting smart controls that can optimize light levels for a perfect balance of energy consumption and productivity.”

The SX1212 and SX1213 are fully regulated to deliver a consistent RF range as the battery voltage decreases over time. This eliminates the cost and board space needed for external power management. For outdoor applications in extreme conditions, both devices leverage improved Semtech technology to deliver stable RF performance across a -40ºC to +85ºC temperature range.

Both devices incorporate a baseband modem with data rates up to 200 Kbit/s. Data handling features include a sixty-four byte FIFO, packet handling, automatic CRC generation and data whitening. All major RF communication parameters are programmable and most of them may be dynamically set. Both devices comply with European (ETSI EN 300-220 V2.1.1) and North American (FCC part 15.247 and 15.249) regulatory standards.

With support for both frequency-shift keying (FSK) modulation and on-off keying (OOK) modulation, the SX1212 and SX1213 can be used in new and legacy sensor network designs. The devices support FSK data rates from 1.56 to 200 Kbit/s and OOK data rates up to 32 Kbit/s. Receiver sensitivity for FSK modulation is -104 dBm at 25 Kbit/s and for OOK is -110 dBm at 2 Kbit/s.

The low receive current of the SX1212 and SX1213 lets designers specify lower capacity and lower cost batteries. The components also contribute to green solutions by extending useful battery life resulting in fewer battery replacements.

MagnaChip affiliates file Chapter 11 bankruptcy in connection with acquisition

SEOUL, KOREA: MagnaChip Semiconductor Ltd. announced that its parent companies filed a voluntary petition for relief under Chapter 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code.

The filing follows MagnaChip’s announcement that it has signed a definitive agreement with an investment group led by KTB Securities, a leading investment firm operating in Korea, to acquire MagnaChip and its operating and sales affiliates.

The company is committed to completing the restructuring as quickly as possible, and plans to emerge from the process in late 2009 under a new ownership structure and essentially debt-free.

MagnaChip’s Korean operations are not part of the Chapter 11 filing. During the restructuring process, MagnaChip will carry on its manufacturing and development and sales activities to support its existing and new customers and product lines in Korea and overseas.

“After the restructuring is complete, MagnaChip will become a stronger and more financially stable company under the leadership of a dynamic and committed investment group,” said Sang Park, Chief Executive Officer of MagnaChip.

KTB Securities acquires MagnaChip

SEOUL, KOREA: MagnaChip Semiconductor Ltd. has signed a definitive agreement with an investment group led by KTB Securities, a leading investment firm operating in Korea, to acquire MagnaChip. Terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Headquartered in South Korea, MagnaChip is a leading, Asia-based designer and manufacturer of analog and mixed-signal semiconductor products for high volume consumer applications.

The company has a broad range of analog and mixed-signal semiconductor technology and intellectual property, supported by its 29-year operating history, large portfolio of registered and pending patents and extensive engineering and manufacturing process expertise.

KTB Securities is a leading investment firm in South Korea whose comprehensive business includes private equity, investing and full service investment banking for corporate clients worldwide.

KTB Securities, together with its asset management affiliates, manages over $8.9 billion in total assets, and has successfully raised numerous funds based on its long-term relationships with pension funds and domestic and international financial institutions.