Comm Chips Take Up 70% Less Space

Said to take up 70% less board space than standard chip packages, the L9214/9315/9216 subscriber-line interface chips come in a 7-mm2, 48-pin micro lead-frame chip carrier (MLCC) package. Designed for VOIP applications, the ICs provide the interface between a standard telephone and communications equipment-i.e., cable modem and a SOHO gateway, etc. Each chip in the group operates on 3.3V and, if required, on a 5V supply. These communication devices are said to interface to virtually any manufacturer's codecs and, in terms of low-power usage, the chips consume roughly 25 mW in a scan-on-hook state. Based on features, the chips are priced between $2.95 and $3.50 each/100,000. AGERE SYSTEMS, Allentown, PA. (800) 372-2447.