Semtech Family of 40V, 2A, 2MHz Step-Up DC/DC Converters Delivers Highly Compact Designs; Devices Power up to 10 White LEDs, OLEDs Displays and Generate Bias Voltages for TFT LCD Displays.

CAMARILLO, Calif. -- Semtech Corp. (Nasdaq:SMTC), a leading supplier of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors for communications, portable devices, computers, and industrial equipment, today introduced the SC4501, SC4502 and SC4502H, a family of current-mode, adjustable frequency step-up (boost) converters with an internal 2A, 40V switch. Each converter can be adapted in a variety of topologies such as boost, sepic, and flyback for generating high output voltage from multi-cell alkaline, NiCd, NiMH or single cell Li-ion batteries.

The boost converters operate from input voltages as low as 1.4V to generate outputs to 40V at efficiencies over 90 percent. Switching frequency can be programmed using a single resistor to select the desired value between 250kHz and 2MHz. A high frequency of operation enables the system designer to minimize external component size and avoid interference with noise sensitive frequency bands in the system. A small inductor and ceramic capacitors keep the total solution footprint compact while minimizing total solution cost.

The SC4501, with a low Vsat 220mV switch, delivers up to 2A at 32V. The SC4502 and SC4502H feature 210mV and 250mV Vsat switches, respectively, to supply up to 1.4A at 32V for the SC4502 and 1.4A at 40V for the SC4502H. The boost converter family is ideal for driving up to 10 white LEDs in series configuration for backlighting in cell phones, PDAs, and automotive displays. The high current internal switches also make them well suited for generating bias voltages in LCD panels and for system voltages in battery operated systems such as portable DVDs, digital video cameras, portable medical equipment and many other consumer portables.

The SC4502 and SC4502H include most of the features of the SC4501 and are further optimized for high efficiencies at light loads. Equipped with a smaller 1.4A switch, they have a low shut-down supply current of 10uA. In battery-operated appliances where battery conservation is crucial, the SC4502 and SC4502H are highly attractive choices. Device family includes additional features such as programmable soft start and programmable under-voltage lockout (UVLO) which help eliminate inrush currents during start-up and protect the system from line voltage transients, thereby ensuring reliable system performance.

"Semtech has traditionally dominated the white LED driver market with its charge pump converter products," says Ven Shan, VP of Marketing for Semtech's Power Management Products. "The SC4501, SC4502 and SC4502H are inductor-based converters that complement and extend Semtech's portfolio of white LED drivers. They provide performance and efficiency advantages for driving up to 10 white LEDs in series-connected LCD backlight applications, yet are flexible enough to address a much broader range of applications."

The SC4501 is available in a 3mm x 3mm, 10-pin MLPD and in an 8-pin MSOP package. The SC4502 and SC4502H are offered in the 3mm x 3mm 10-pin MLPD package only. Both packages incorporate a special thermal design for high-power applications. The lead-free design of the devices meets worldwide environmental and regulatory requirements including the European Union's Restriction on Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS) directive.

Key Features of the SC4501, SC4502 and SC4502H

--Wide input voltage range of 1.4V to 16V -- adjustable boost output voltages up to 40V

--Switching frequency is programmable up to 2MHz

--Low saturation voltage switch -- 220mV @ 2A (SC4501)

--Current-mode control offers fast transient response 

--Soft-start function eliminates in-rush current

--Low shutdown current -- 10uA

--Adjustable under-voltage lockout threshold

--Small, low profile, 10-lead MPLD / 8-lead MSOP thermally enhanced packages

Pricing and Availability

All products are available immediately in production quantities. The SC4501 is priced at $0.89 each in 1,000-piece lots with ordering code SC4501MLTRT (MLPD package) and SC4501MSETRT (MSOP package). The SC4502 is priced at $1.05 each in 1,000-piece lots with ordering code SC4502MLTRT (MLPD package). And, the SC4502H is priced at $1.05 each in 1,000-piece lots using ordering code SC4502HMLTRT (MLPD package). 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.

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