New Level-Shifted LITTLE FOOT Load Switches Simplify Multiple-Voltage Designs in Cell Phones and Notebook Computers, Are Packaged in TSOP-6

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - May 18, 1999 - Vishay Siliconix today announced the release of three new level-shifted load switches, each of which allows a low-voltage microcontroller to control loads on a range of different voltage rails. The new LITTLE FOOT TSOP-6 devices include higher-performance versions of competing pats, while introducing the first device of this type with a 1.8-V operating voltage, the Si3865DV.

Designed to facilitate multiple rail voltages in cell phones and portable computers, all three load switches released today set on-resistance records for this device type, with rDS(on) as low as 80 milliohms when switching 4.5-V loads. In addition to prolonging battery life, the new devices feature integrated n-channel level-shift circuitry that saves space by eliminating the need for an external MOSFET to give a true ground referenced low-voltage logic input. Only a resistor is needed for a complete solution.

"The need for a level-shifted load switches is becoming common in notebook computers and other mobile systems as more and more components are going to lower voltages while certain loads, such as disk drives and power amplifiers, remain at 5-V and higher voltage rails," said Evan Lambka, Product Marketing Manager at Vishay Siliconix.

The devices released today offer designers a choice of operating voltages to suit the headroom needs of various systems. The n-channel component of each device can be driven by logic signals as low as 1.5 V and features internal ESD protection up to 3000 V. Key specifications are offered in the following table:

The new devices additionally provide an adjustable slew-rate feature that allows designers to avoid the effects of surge currents that could affect microcontroller or battery monitor operation if loads are turned on too quickly.

Samples and production quantities of the new LITTLE FOOT devices are available now, with lead times of 8 to 10 weeks for larger orders.

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc., a Fortune 1,000 Company listed on the NYSE (VSH), is one of the world's largest manufacturers of discrete semiconductors (diodes, rectifiers, transistors, and optoelectronics and selected ICs) and passive electronic components (resistors, capacitors, inductors, sensors, and transducers). These components are used in virtually all types of electronic devices and equipment, in the industrial, computing, automotive, consumer, telecommunications, military, aerospace, and medical markets. Its product innovations, successful acquisition strategy, and ability to provide "one-stop shop" service have made Vishay a global industry leader. Vishay can be found on the Internet at http://www.vishay.com.

LITTLE FOOT is a registered trademark of Vishay Siliconix