AMI Semiconductor Introduces AMIS-53000 Transceiver for Ultra-Low Power, Low Data Rate Applications and Regions.

POCATELLO, Idaho -- CMOS Low Data Rate Transceiver IC for Automotive, Medical and Industrial Applications Offers Tunable 300-928MHz Frequency Range And Incorporates MICS-Specific Features

AMI Semiconductor (Nasdaq:AMIS), a designer and manufacturer of state-of-the-art integrated mixed-signal and structured digital products for the automotive, medical and industrial markets, has expanded its family of ultra-low power, low data rate CMOS ICs with a versatile transceiver that provides a single-chip wireless solution for automotive, medical and industrial applications. The new AMIS-53000 is tunable for frequencies from 300 to 928MHz, supports ASK, FSK and GFSK modulation, and incorporates application-specific features for wireless products targeted at the medical implantable communication systems (MICS) markets.

The AMIS-53000 is the latest member of the AMIS ASTRIC(TM) (Application Specific Transmit and Receive IC) product family and is ideal for a wide variety of low to moderate data rate systems requiring robust, low power wireless communications. These include automotive remote keyless entry (RKE) and tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS); MICS and wireless medical telemetry systems (WMTS); and industrial applications such as security systems access control, wireless sensors, automated meter reading, and industrial automation. By delivering extensive frequency agility, the new device allows designers to use the same part across a range of applications and geographies, while reducing the bill of materials (BOM). For example, a product using the AMIS-53000 in the ISM bands can be programmed to operate at 915MHz in the US and 868MHz in Europe. Built-in application specific functionality such as MICS-specific instructions simplifies the implementation of wireless communication for implantable medical products used globally.

Like other members of the ASTRIC family, the AMIS-53000 incorporates proprietary techniques to significantly reduce power consumption and to extend the useful operating life of battery-powered products. These include the patented Quick Start oscillator design with an extremely fast 15us turn-on time and a special operating mode known as Sniff Mode(TM). Together, these technologies allow the on-board receiver to rapidly power up to check for the presence of an RF signal. Sniff Mode operation is programmable to optimize power conservation and system performance.

The IC is suitable for both frequency shift key (FSK, GFSK) and on/off key (OOK) modulation implementations and can be easily interfaced to a baseband processor via its integrated serial interface bus. Application-specific functionality, such as the built-in MICS instruction set with clear-channel-assessment (listen before transmit) and transmit-on-medical-event, allows tasks to be offloaded from the host processor to optimize performance and further reduce power consumption. A built-in 8-bit ADC minimizes the need for external components in wireless sensing applications. Packetization and cyclic redundancy check (CRC) techniques ensure robust transmissions, while data shaping narrows the occupied bandwidth to maximize efficiency.

"Many single-chip, low data rate transceivers offer a very narrow frequency range, limiting the range of applications and the geographic regions in which they can be used. The frequency agility of the AMIS-53000 eliminates this problem, allowing a single device to be used across multiple applications and regions," said Todd Schneider, senior director of medical and wireless products for AMIS. "While helping OEMs reduce the BOM, the AMIS-53000 integrates a number of features that will make it easier to implement certain wireless applications, while delivering the robust communications and low power operation demanded by a growing number of automotive, medical and industrial designs."

The AMIS-53000 is supplied in a 32 lead LQFP. Please contact AMIS for a custom quote based on volume, use and application. Samples and evaluation kits will be available in October. The wireless technology behind the AMIS-53000 can also be used as a customizable platform offering a variety of intellectual proprietary (IP) for ASIC integration.

For additional information on the 53000 or the AMIS ASTRIC product line, please visit http://www.amis.com/wireless/.

For additional information about this technology, including data sheet, feature sheet and graphics, please visit http://www.amis.com/wireless/amis_53000.html.

About AMI Semiconductor

AMI Semiconductor (AMIS) is a leader in the design and manufacture of silicon solutions for the real world. As a widely recognized innovator in state-of-the-art integrated mixed-signal and structured digital products, AMIS is committed to providing customers with the optimal value, quickest time-to-market semiconductor solutions. Offering unparalleled manufacturing flexibility and dedication to customer service, AMI Semiconductor operates globally with headquarters in Pocatello, Idaho, European corporate offices in Oudenaarde, Belgium, and a network of sales and design centers located in the key markets of North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific region. For more information please visit the AMIS Web site at www.amis.com.