Companion IC Keeps Microcontrollers On Track

Dubbed a microcontroller companion IC, the SH3000 MicroBuddy integrates a low-Vdd and power-on reset function, watchdog timer, clock management system, real-time clock, and wake-up timer in a 16-lead microleaded package (MLP). According to the company, the chip is meant to simplify system design, lower system cost, reduce circuit board real-estate, increase functionality, and dramatically cut power consumption in most applications. Measuring 3 mm x 3 mm x 0.9 mm, the chip can be used with any microprocessor, microcontroller, DSP, or ASIC and is expected to find application in a broad spectrum of micro-driven products. Key features of the device include: stable, fast and programmable low-Vdd reset; self-contained, 6-ms power-on reset; secure watchdog timer with 7.8125 ms to 1s period; accurate, programmable 62.5 kHz to 16 MHz clock management system; automatic STOP sensing and near instantaneous restart; real-time clock with 170-year calendar and 1/256th second resolution; and 30.5 µs to 36.4 hr. wake-up timer with 30.5 µs resolution. The SH3000 sells for $1.95 each/10,000 and is available now in production quantities. SEMTECH CORP., Camarillo, CA. (805) 498-2111.