AMI Semiconductor Partners with BAE Systems for Next-Generation MEMS Gyroscope; AMIS Smart Power I3T80 Technology Used to Develop Mixed-Signal ASIC.Business Editors/High-Tech Writers POCATELLO, Idaho--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 19, 2003 Chosen for its ability to create high-speed, low-power, mixed-signal ASICs, AMI Semiconductor AMI Semiconductor is a company engaged the design and manufacture of customer specific integrated circuit solutions, including solutions for the automotive, medical and industrial markets. Among its products are products that integrate processing of analog and digital signals. (AMIS A·mis , Kingsley 1922-1995. British writer best known for his novels, including Lucky Jim (1954) and Jake's Thing (1978). ) has partnered with BAE Systems BAE Systems British manufacturer of aircraft, missiles, avionics, naval vessels, and other aerospace and defense products. BAE Systems was formed (1999) from the merger of British Aerospace (BAe) with Marconi Electronic Systems. to develop BAE's next generation, solid-state MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical Systems) Tiny mechanical devices that are built onto semiconductor chips and are measured in micrometers. In the research labs since the 1980s, MEMS devices began to materialize as commercial products in the mid-1990s. (micro-electro-mechanical system) gyroscopes. Developed by the BAE Systems Inertial Systems Division, the new solid-state capacitive gyro sensors offer a compact and inexpensive solution suitable for mass market applications where the sensing of the change of direction or orientation of the object is needed. AMI Semiconductor's smart power I3T80 mixed-signal technology is being used to develop a compact and low-cost data acquisition ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) Pronounced "a-sick." A chip that is custom designed for a specific application rather than a general-purpose chip such as a microprocessor. to process the data received from the gyro sensor. Potential applications for the sensor and ASIC chipset range from vehicle stability control systems to wheelchairs and model aircraft. BAE Systems chose the AMIS I3T80 platform following a thorough market evaluation of mixed-signal ASIC suppliers and technologies. A key reason for choosing the AMIS solution was its ability to create compact, cost-effective ASICs that combine high-speed performance with low-power operation. "We compiled a shortlist short·list also short-list n. A list of preferable items or candidates that have been selected for final consideration, as in making an award or filling a position. Noun 1. of suppliers by conducting a thorough and detailed market evaluation of available mixed-signal ASIC technologies," said Mark Bicknell, senior supply chain manager for the BAE Systems Inertial Systems Division. "We selected AMIS on the basis of the technology, cost, and enthusiasm of AMIS to get involved in this project." AMI Semiconductor's I3T80 mixed-signal technology allows system designers to reduce component count, save space and lower costs by integrating complex digital circuitry, embedded microprocessors and high-voltage functionality into a single, compact IC. Based on a 0.35um process, I3T80 can deliver system-on-chip (SoC) solutions that offer gate densities of 15,000/mm(2) and can handle voltages up to 80V. Such devices can incorporate high-voltage circuitry such as motor controller drivers and DC-DC DC-DC Direct Current to Direct Current (power conversion) converters, and high-precision analog circuits including bandgap filters, ADCs and DACs. Available IP blocks cover PLLs, USB USB in full Universal Serial Bus Type of serial bus that allows peripheral devices (disks, modems, printers, digitizers, data gloves, etc.) to be easily connected to a computer. interfaces, bus protocol controllers, and controllers for CAN and LIN connectivity. Embedded microprocessor options include ARM7TDMI and 8051 cores. The flexibility of the system can be increased even more with the addition of an embedded flash module. About AMI Semiconductor AMI Semiconductor (AMIS) is a world leader in the design and manufacture of silicon solutions for the real world. As a widely recognized innovator in state-of-the-art mixed-signal technologies and mid-range digital ASICs including ASIC conversion services, AMIS is committed to providing customers with the optimal value, quickest time-to-market ASIC solutions. Offering unparalleled manufacturing flexibility and dedication to customer service, AMI Semiconductor operates globally with headquarters in Pocatello, Idaho Pocatello (IPA: [po kə tɛ lo]) is the county seat and largest city of Bannock CountyGR6 , European corporate offices in Oudenaarde, Belgium, and a network of sales and design centers located in the key markets of the United States, Europe and the Asia Pacific region. For more information, please visit the AMIS Web site at www.amis.com |
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