New Semtech Protection Device Offers Low Capacitance for HDMI-Enabled Products; Four-Line RClamp0544M Features Capacitance of 0.3pF Yet Still Delivers IEC-Standard ESD, EFT and CDE Protection.

CAMARILLO, Calif. -- Semtech Corp. (Nasdaq:SMTC), a leading supplier of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors for communications, portable devices, computers, and industrial equipment, today announced the RClamp0544M, a four-line protection device with the low capacitance and high protection levels necessary for high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) and digital visual interface (DVI) enabled products.

External video and data ports in computing devices and displays are often exposed to high voltages discharged from the human body through static buildup or from plugging in "hot" cables. Sensitive CMOS ICs driving or receiving signals through external interfaces such as high definition multimedia interface, digital visual interface, Ethernet, universal VGA/SVGA, and S-Video can easily be damaged or destroyed from such high energy surges.

Protecting external ports in these systems can be a challenge, as protection devices not only must withstand repeated voltage strikes but also exhibit low capacitance and leakage current to maintain signal integrity at high speeds. Clamping voltages must also be low enough to prevent latch-up and cumulative degradation to protected circuits.

The RClamp0544M is an array of transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diodes that protects sensitive ICs by delivering IEC-standard electro static discharge (ESD), electrical fast transient (EFT), and cable discharge events (CDE) protection on up to four high-speed data lines and one power supply rail (Vcc).

The device is a member of Semtech's RailClamp(R) family of low capacitance protection devices and is based on proprietary process technology that delivers a capacitance of only 0.3pF for zero signal attenuation on data lines operating at 2GHz or higher.

The layout of the device has also been optimized for HDMI/DVI designs, with all of the data lines entering on the same side of the package so that data signals flow straight through the device, eliminating bending or routing that can cause changes in impedance and impact signal quality.

The device is housed in a 3 mm x 5 mm MSOP-10L package that is RoHS/WEEE compliant. The package offers 0.5 mm pitch between the signal line pair, which allows the signal lines to be tightly coupled and results in good common mode noise rejection.

"The RClamp0544M has been selected for the reference designs of three leading HDTV processor manufacturers, which is testimony to the industry's need for the low capacitance, good protection, and flow-through layout delivered by the device," said Tom Dugan, Semtech's Director of Protection Products. "Semtech innovation has allowed us to reset the industry's expectations for capacitance, and you can expect more on this front in the future as we strive to help customers protect ever faster data lines."

Key Features of the RClamp0544M

--  ESD protection to IEC 61000-4-2 +/-15kV (air) and +/-8kV
    (contact); IEC 61000-4-5 (lightning) 5A (8/20 us)
--  EFT protection to IEC 61000-4-4 40A (5/50ns)
--  Protects four I/O lines and one Vcc line
--  Operating voltage: 5.0V
--  MSOP 10L package (3 mm x 5 mm); RoHS/WEEE compliant

Pricing and Availability

The RClamp0544M is available immediately in production quantities and is priced at $0.52 each in 1,000-piece lots. Order code is RClamp0544M.TBT. Semtech offers comprehensive design assistance, including field- and factory-based support. Data sheets, volume pricing, and delivery quotes, as well as evaluation kits and samples, are available by contacting [e-mail].

About Semtech

Semtech Corporation is a leading supplier of high-quality analog and mixed-signal semiconductor products. The company is dedicated to providing customers with proprietary solutions and breakthrough technology in power management, protection, advanced communications, human interface, test & measurement, and wireless connectivity products. Publicly traded since 1967, Semtech is listed on the NASDAQ National Market under the symbol SMTC. For more information, contact Semtech Corp. at 200 Flynn Road, Camarillo, CA 93012-8790; phone [phone]; email to [e-mail]; or visit its web site at www.semtech.com.

Semtech, RailClamp, RClamp, and the Semtech logo are marks of Semtech Corporation.