Two 12-bit Dual-Channel A-to-D Converter ICs from STMicroelectronics Pack High Performance, While Conserving Power and Space.

Business Editors

GENEVA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 25, 2002

One, 40MSPS at 230mW, the other 20MSPS at 120 mW,

each in a 48-pin TQFP 

STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM) today announced two dual-channel, 12-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC) chips that combine high performance and extremely low power consumption, achieving the industry's highest ratio of speed-to-power consumption.

The first device is the TSA1203, which performs 40 million samples per second (MSPS) while consuming just 230mW. The second device, the TSA1204, runs at 20MSPS while consuming only 120mW.

By using multiplexed outputs, the TSA1203 and TSA1204 propel STMicroelectronics' data-conversion product line into the twin-channel ADC arena while keeping the package size to a space-saving 48-pin thin quad flat pack (TQFP) of single-channel units.

Both ADC chips are well suited for applications in medical imaging and ultrasound equipment, as well as 3G base stations and other digital telecom infrastructure equipment. Other likely applications include in-phase and quadrature signal processing, high-speed data acquisition, and portable instrumentation products.

The high performance of the 40MSPS TSA1203 is reflected in typical dynamic specifications that include an effective number of bits (ENOB) of 11 at the Nyquist sampling rate, a spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) of 78dBc at 10MHz input, and a signal to noise and distortion ratio (SINAD) of 68dB. Corresponding typical specifications for the 20MSPS TSA1204 include an 11.2-bit ENOB, 80dBc SFDR at 10MHz input, and 68dB SINAD.

Both of these highly integrated ADC chips achieve their impressive performance and low-power consumption by taking advantage of advanced deep-submicron (0.25u) CMOS fabrication technology and a pipelined architecture. In addition, each uses digital error correction to assure excellent static linearity.

Among the noteworthy features shared by the two dual-channel ADCs are an internal voltage reference that reduces component count and saves space (if preferred, an external voltage reference can be used), proprietary track-and-hold circuit featuring a 1GHz input bandwidth, common clock signal for both channels; selectable I or Q channels, 2.5V supply voltage with 3.3V-compatible I/O signals, 2Vp-p differential or single-ended analog inputs, tristate outputs, and good channel isolation.

The 40MSPS TSA1203 and 20MSPS TSA1204 each come in a 48-pin TQFP and operate over the extended operating temperature of -40 degrees to +85 degrees C. Units are available in volume quantities now.

About STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics, the world's third largest independent semiconductor company, is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a key role in enabling today's convergence markets. The Company's shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on Euronext Paris and on the Milan Stock Exchange. In 2001, the Company's net revenues were $6.36 billion and net earnings were $257.1 million. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com.