Atmel Releases New Transponder Module Family Member for Easy and Cost-Effective Industrial Tag Assembly.

Business Editors/High-Tech Writers

SAN JOSE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 10, 2001

Atmel(R) Corporation (Nasdaq:ATML) announced today the production release of a new read/write transponder module based on Atmel's standard IDIC(R) T5551. The new micromodule T555101-PAE enables simple, fast and cost-efficient tag assembly for use in ISO cards such as contactless cards for access control or standard coins for industrial applications such as inventory control.

The T555101-PAE is designed for batteryless identification systems with a 120- to 134-kHz magnetic field including a 330-pF capacitor, which is often used by card manufacturers. The tolerance of the capacitor is reduced to 3% for a better fit with the external coil during production.

This new module makes final assembly much easier and more cost-effective, as less process steps are necessary compared with standard production with die. For tag assembly, only an external antenna has to be added.

The module is the industry's most universal read-/write device for 125-kHz applications, regarding modulation modes and data rates. The T555101-PAE provides eight different data rates (in a range between Rf/16 and Rf/128) to optimize the application according to distance and data transfer requirements.

"We are proud to announce this new updated version of our well-proven T5551 micromodule, the next member of our broad family of RF identification ICs," said Torsten Mann, Marketing Director for Automotive and Control products at Atmel Wireless & Microcontrollers. "The improved tolerance of our industry standard 330-pF capacitor will enable the designer to further reduce their company's production losses and meet today's demands for higher quality", Mann concluded.

The multi-tag access function, enabling the identification of several transponders in the same field, is based on a transponder-specific password request. Ten separate tags can be read out in less than half of a second. The micromodule is available in a robust, small package (5.0 x 8.0 x 0.4 mm), which allows the insertion into plastic ISO cards.

Samples and a full qualification package are available now. Pricing for the T555101-PAE starts at $0.84 (10 k). To support the system designer, Atmel's demo board, with updated demo software and design guides including application guides are available. The T555101-PAE is available from selected Atmel sales representatives and authorized distributors.

About Atmel

Founded in 1984, Atmel Corporation is headquartered in San Jose, California with manufacturing facilities in North America and Europe. Atmel designs, manufactures and markets worldwide, advanced logic, mixed-signal, nonvolatile memory and RF semiconductors. Atmel is also a leading provider of system-level integration semiconductor solutions using CMOS, BiCMOS, bipolar SiGe, and high-voltage BCDMOS process technologies.

Atmel product and financial information can be retrieved from its Fax-on-Demand service. In North America call 800/292-8635. Internationally from a fax phone, dial 408/441-0732. Requests may be sent via e-mail to [e-mail] or by visiting Atmel's website at www.atmel.com.

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Information

Atmel Wireless & Microcontrollers Division product information may be retrieved at www.atmel-wm.com