IRVINE, Calif., May 23, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- Microsemi Corporation (Nasdaq:MSCC), a leading manufacturer of high performance analog/mixed signal integrated circuits, has announced a new visible light sensor with nearly perfect human eye spectral response.
-- Optimized for low light levels
-- Requires no filters
-- Accurate over 5 decades of ambient light
Designated the LX1973A(tm) Visible Light Sensor, the breakthrough device is optimized for low light levels, making it an ideal solution for controlling automotive displays and headlamp brightness, as well as targeted applications in notebook computers, LCD monitors and TVs, handheld displays, cell phones, digital cameras, kiosks and outdoor lighting.
Microsemi's new visible light sensor utilizes proprietary Best Eye(tm) processing to provide a photopic light wavelength response curve that nearly duplicates that of the human eye, even in dim light. It rejects virtually all near-ultraviolet and near-infrared wavelengths. Like all devices in Microsemi's patented sensor portfolio, the LX1973A requires no optical filters. Conventional sensors must use infrared filters to avoid making adjustments erroneous to the human eye.
"We designed the LX1973A to offer a simple, cost effective solution that provides the most accurate visible light response ever," said Paul Bibeau, Sr. Vice President and General Manager of Microsemi's Integrated Products Group. "By using our new Best Eye technology, the LX1973A extends our light sensor portfolio, allowing Microsemi to serve the most demanding customer applications -- especially those requiring accurate response in dim light or having particularly challenging system needs."
When interfaced with an 8-bit ADC, the LX1973A can detect light as low as 0.001 lux and as high as 500 lux. An integrated dark current cancellation circuit enables accurate sensing below 0.01 lux. In addition, internal thermal compensation provides high accuracy over an extended temperature range, from -40 to +85 degrees Centigrade.
The LX1973A's photo sensor is a PIN diode array having a linear, accurate and very repeatable current transfer function. High gain current mirrors on the chip multiply the PIN diode photo-current to a level that can be voltage scaled with a standard value external resistor.
The LX1973A is lead free and contains no cadmium, as is found in many conventional light sensors.
Packaged in a modified 8-pin MSOP surface mount package that utilizes only three active pins, the LX1973A measures only 3 millimeters square. In 10K quantities it is unit priced at $2.20. Samples and production quantities are available immediately.
Complete technical information on all Microsemi visible light sensors is available on the Microsemi web site, http://www.Microsemi.com. Samples can be requested through this site, from Microsemi sales representatives, or from Microsemi's distribution channel.
About Microsemi Corporation
Microsemi is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of high performance analog and mixed signal integrated circuits and high reliability semiconductors. The company's semiconductors manage and control or regulate power, protect against transient voltage spikes and transmit, receive and amplify signals.
Microsemi's products include individual components as well as integrated circuit solutions that enhance customer designs by improving performance and reliability, battery optimization, reducing size or protecting circuits. The principal markets the company serves include implanted medical, defense/aerospace and satellite, notebook computers, monitors and LCD TVs, automotive and mobile connectivity applications. More information may be obtained by contacting the company directly or by visiting its web site at http://www.microsemi.com.
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Investor Inquiries: David R. Sonksen, Microsemi Corporation, Irvine, CA (949) 221-7101.
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