Microsemi Adds Miniature Charger for Single Cell Lithium-Ion Batteries




       -- Charging current up to 1 Amp 
       -- Targets cell phones, digital cameras, MP3 players

IRVINE, Calif., Feb. 23, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- Microsemi Corporation (Nasdaq:MSCC), a leading manufacturer of high performance analog/mixed signal integrated circuits, has announced a new miniature Lithium-Ion/Lithium Polymer battery charger circuit for use in cell phones, pagers, digital cameras, MP3 players, and PDAs in single cell battery applications.

Designated the LX2203(tm), the new charger's highly integrated design provides up to 1 amp charge current from a high power 3mm by 3mm surface mount package for Lithium-Ion batteries with 100mAH to1AH ratings.

"We designed the LX2203 to provide a cost effective solution having all the important charging features in the smallest package possible -- a critical need in the shrinking dimensions of today's high volume portable consumer products," said Paul Bibeau, Vice President and General Manager of Microsemi's Integrated Products Group.

The LX2203's features include a low dropout design, reverse current blocking, pre-charge conditioning, short circuit protection and a linear thermal control loop for cool operation. Its accurate programmable charge current and independent termination current setting add system design flexibility to support quick charge mode and compliance with USB current limits.

With the LX2203, batteries are normally charged in two phases: constant current and constant voltage. For protection, if a battery is deeply discharged, the charge current is reduced until the battery terminal voltage recovers and will support higher current charging levels. Once charging is complete, the battery voltage is monitored. If it drops more than 3%, the charge cycle is restarted to insure the battery is always topped off. When input power is removed, the LX2203 enters an extremely low 7 microamp quiescent current sleep mode, preventing drain on the battery.

The LX2203, priced at $0.90 in 10K quantities, is available for immediate sampling and delivery. An evaluation board is available to confirm its conditioning mode, top-off charge, inherent load disconnect and 1A constant current capabilities.

Complete technical information is available on the Microsemi web site, www.Microsemi.com. Samples and evaluation kits can be requested through this site, from Microsemi sales representatives, or through 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 discrete 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.

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING FACTORS THAT CAN MATERIALLY AFFECT MICROSEMI'S FUTURE RESULTS.

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Investor Inquiries: David R. Sonksen Microsemi Corporation, Irvine, CA (949) 221-7101.

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