Archived Press Releases

 

Epad® Provides Breakthrough In Precision Multiple-Channel Linear Asic
Sunnyvale, CA March 19, 2001 -- Advanced Linear Devices, Inc., announces that it has developed the capability to manufacture custom linear circuit arrays that contain up 50 op-amps per monolithic chip using its patented EPAD circuit trimming technology. Heretofore, conventional IC processing did not permit large-area precision trimming of input offset voltage (Vos) thus forcing designers to favor alternative discrete or multiple chip system solutions. With EPAD programming, the company claims the ability to electrically trim each amplifier (Vos) within the array to better than 1.0mV for high precision applications. Typical operational amplifier types include ALD's popular ALD1701 and ALD1712 with (Vos) specs ranging from 0.9mV to as low as 0.35mV respectively. A variety of the company's op-amp part numbers can reside on the same chip as well as a full complement of supportive resistor/capacitor components.

Applications for high-density linear single chip op-amp arrays include telecommunications and computer network switching systems where size and chip-count is a critical design factor.

Custom operational amplifier arrays can be bread boarded using the company's FSK11, ASIC Development Kit and subsequently converted to a fully packaged IC in about 20 weeks following approval of the breadboard version. NRE pricing for ASIC op-amp arrays range from $75,000 to $150,000, depending on the amplifier/circuit density, (Vos) specs, package type, and final testing requirements. Typical production pricing can range from $10 to $50 per chip, in moderate to large volume applications.

About Advanced Linear Devices, Inc. Advanced Linear Devices, Inc. develops and manufactures a full line of precision CMOS linear integrated circuits, including analog switches, D/A converters, voltage comparators, operational amplifiers, conventional and EPAD® (Electrically Programmable Analog Device) MOSFET transistors. Most standard devices are available as ASIC cells for the development of semi-custom integrated circuits. ALD also serves customers through expertise in full custom designing, including device and process development.
Download Data Sheet FSK11