Analog timer chip

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16 February 2011 Analogue, Mixed Signal, LSI

Semtech has developed a sub-1 V analog timer platform that adapts the conventional 555 timer for low-voltage, battery-operated small appliances. The new SX8122 analog timer operates from 0,9 V without the need for an external boost converter and inductor.

The device adds low-voltage features to the legacy 555 timer, with one output that controls a DC motor or another continuous low-voltage element and another output that generates a pulse train to drive a high-brightness LED from a single battery. This combination of features makes the SX8122 suitable for a wide range of small consumer home and office appliances, such as electric toothbrushes, buzzers, toys and LED pointers. The device also includes a voltage monitor to enable a simple USB charger for NiMH or NiCd supplied devices.

The timer operates between 0,9 V and 2 V over the full industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, making it ideally suited to run from one AA or AAA alkaline, NiMH or NiCd battery. The device has a continuous output that can be activated on the press of a button to control either a DC motor or other continuous low voltage function, as well as a burst output to drive a high-brightness white or green LED, or other feature requiring a voltage boost. The SX8122 is programmable via external resistors and a capacitor, similar to the legacy 555 analog timer but at 1 V, and is designed for on/off button debouncing, delayed startup functions and analog programmable sequencing and time-out in toys and remote control applications.

The SX8122 is battery safe. It starts controlling I/Os at 0,6 V, to eliminate unexpected behaviour in the external components and prevent current drain during the startup phase. It also features a battery overload indicator for slow NiMH or NiCd charger management. At power down (low battery), the I/Os are controlled again down to 0,6 V and the current consumption is guaranteed less than 10 µA over the full industrial temperature range to avoid battery leakage.

For more information contact Arnold Perumal, Avnet Kopp, +27 (0)11 809 6100, [email protected], www.avnet.co.za

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Analogue, Mixed Signal, LSI

Analog timer chip

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