Processor Companion Integrates Analog/Mixed Signal

The FM4005 processor companion integrates a number of analog and mixed signal functions commonly needed to support microprocessors in automotive, consumer, communications, and industrial systems. These include a real-time clock, low-VDD reset, watchdog timer, battery-backed event counter, lockable 64-bit serial number area, and a general-purpose comparator that can be used for an early power-fail interrupt or other purpose. All functions are controlled by a single interface, and operate over the voltage range of 2.7V to 5.5V. The IC comes in a 14-pin SOIC package. An on-chip processor supervisor provides a host processor with two main functions: detection of power supply fault conditions, and a watchdog timer to escape a software lockup condition. The early power-fail interrupt signals the host processor well before VDD drops out of specification. The comparator then generates a power-fail interrupt used to save critical data in nonvolatile FRAM. Price is $2.62 each/10,000. RAMTRON INTERNATIONAL CORP., Colorado Springs, CO. (719) 481-7004