IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 25, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- Microsemi Corporation (Nasdaq:MSCC), a global manufacturer of high reliability semiconductors for the MRI clinical market, announced today that it has developed the industry's first MRI switching dual diodes module -- designed to optimize performance, eliminate polarity errors, and reduce system assembly labor and cost.
-- Latest Microsemi breakthrough for MRI market -- Eliminates polarity mounting errors -- Reduces system assembly labor and cost -- RoHS Compliant
Designated the UMX9989AP(tm), Microsemi's new module is designed for two MRI system applications: providing MRI receiver protection from high RF energy fields, including long RF pulses and RF spike pulses; and passive switching of surface coil detuning and blocking circuits. It already has been recommended by a number of leading manufacturers of MRI high magnetic field systems having magnets of 1.5 Tesla strength or greater.
The new module's unique design provides two anti-parallel pairs of Microsemi UMX9989(tm) diodes, ensuring that the matched pair can be surface mounted into a coil assembly with correct polarities and with minimum parasitic inductance, minimum capacitance and minimum thermal impedance-all while reducing system assembly costs for the coil manufacturer.
According to a recent Frost & Sullivan survey of the MRI coils market, Very High Field coils that can employ Microsemi's new dual diode module, represent its fastest growing segment. It is expected to grow from 10.7% of the coils market in 2005 to 13.2% by 2009.
"This latest Microsemi breakthrough sets another standard for high performance MRI surface coil designs," said John Caruso, VP and General Manager of the company's Lowell, Massachusetts, operation. "It follows on the heels of our successful UMX5601(tm) diode, which also was a performance breakthrough and continues to be designed into many MRI systems," he added.
The UMX9989AP's superior performance results from a combination of innovative thermally matched packaging, low inductance Microsemi PIN diode silicon chips, and a proprietary construction process that uses full-faced metallurgical bonds to both surfaces of the chip. The device provides high power handling capability with a lower bias current requirement.
Noting that the MRI market Microsemi serves is expanding at greater than 18%, James J. Peterson, Microsemi President and CEO, said, "We intend to continue to apply our deep experience in high reliability semiconductor designs for the medical and aerospace markets to develop innovative products like this new ultra low magnetic module for MRI coil applications."
The UMX9989AP's proprietary dual surface mount module measures only .195" high x .175" wide x .090" deep and is RoHS compliant.
Complete technical information 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 in Lowell at 978-442-5600.
About Microsemi Corporation
Microsemi Corporation, with corporate headquarters in Irvine, California, 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 included 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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