Timer/Controllers Simplify Appliance Designs

Promising to ease the design of AA- and AAA-battery operated electronic appliances, the SX8120 and SX8121 sub-1V, mixed-signal LED and motor timer controllers offer 15-second, 30-second, or 10-minute timeout options, 0.6V I/O control capability, and operation out of the box with no programming necessary. The devices operate inherently at 0.9V and therefore do not require an external boost converter and inductor. They also feature pin-programmable timer functions, eliminating the need for lengthy software tuning. Other features include a continuous output to control either a dc motor or other continuous low voltage function as well as a burst output to drive a high-brightness white or green LED or other feature requiring a voltage boost. The SX8120 and SX8121 are available and priced at $0.36 each/2,500. SEMTECH CORP., Camarillo, CA (805) 498-2111.