Relying on a proprietary charge-pump architecture to operate audio/video from a +3.3V rail, the MAX9670 and MAX9671 dual SCART devices promise to drastically reduce power consumption in set-top boxes and A/V receivers. They require +12V for the slow-switching signal and an internal charge pump inverts the +3.3V supply to provide sufficient voltage swing for 2-Vrms audio. Power consumption is 70 mW during quiescent operation and 471 mW during normal operation. Additionally, the ICs integrate load- and activity-detect circuits. Prices start at $1.50 each/1,000. MAXIM INTEGRATED PRODUCTS, Sunnyvale, CA. (800) 998-8800.
