Vishay’s New Twin PTC Thermistors Combine Two Components in One Surface-Mount Package, Provide Maximum Voltage Rating of 240 V and Maximum Current Ratings from 2.5 A to 4.0 A

MALVERN, PENNSYLVANIA - January 14, 2005 - Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. (NYSE: VSH) has announced a new range of components that integrate two positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistors into a single surface-mount package. The Vishay BCcomponents 2322 673 xxxxx twin vertical SMD PTC devices are constructed from a ceramic disc, reflow soldered to a lead-frame. This physical construction results in a flat pick-up area of 30 mm², which facilitates automated assembly.

In addition to reducing component count, the new 2322 673 xxxxx twin vertical SMD PTC devices can reduce the board space required to implement overload protection in telecommunications applications by up to 65%. Maximum voltage rating for the devices is 240 V, and components are available in variants with maximum trip times between 1.2 s and 4.0 s and maximum current ratings ranging from 2.5 A to 4.0 A.

Fully compatible with automated pick-and-place assembly, and suitable for use in lead (Pb)-free soldering processes, the new components also help to reduce assembly time by providing pre-matched pairs of thermistors within the same package. This eliminates the need for resistance matching.

The use of ceramic PTC technology confers high stability, fast response and recovery times, and the ability to sustain several trip cycles. This in turn allows the devices to conform to the more stringent requirements of the ITU K20-21-45 Edition 2003 specification for overvoltage and overcurrent protection for telecommunications equipment.

All of the new devices are rated to function across the industrial temperature range of −40 to +85 °C. In addition to the standard products, Vishay can produce custom versions based on the PTC technology, on request.

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.