Microsemi Helps Sponsor Solar Vehicle Project at the University of Minnesota
IRVINE, Calif.--May 21, 2001--| -- | Fifth-generation solar-powered car faces global competition |
| -- | Uses solar panel protection devices from Microsemi |
| -- | Competition began May 9 in Topeka |
Microsemi Corp. is a corporate sponsor of the University of Minnesota's fifth-generation solar-powered car that will compete in this year's solar races against university, corporate and private teams from around the globe.
Named the "Borealis" the UMN entry includes Microsemi solar panel protection diodes similar to those the company manufactures for applications in space (including the international space station), as well as other Microsemi semiconductors that protect critical circuits ranging from implantable pacemakers to mobile phones on Earth.
The Borealis is the creation of 25 UMN undergraduate student volunteers who focused on its aerodynamic, electrical, solar array and mechanical designs under the watchful eye of project manager Lisa Mauer. Their resulting vehicle weighs only 550 pounds, uses high efficiency gallium arsenide solar cells, lithium polymer batteries and a digital bus electrical system.
At their first event, the Formula Sun Grand Prix in Topeka, Kan., the Borealis won two awards, one for the fastest quarter mile and one for its new mechanical and electrical systems designs. This race also qualified the UMN team for the American Solar Challenge, a 10-day cross-country road race from Chicago to Palm Springs, Calif. in July. At 2,300 miles, this is the world's longest solar car competition.
"With our University's long history of solar car competition behind us," Mauer said, "the 2000-2001 Solar Vehicle Project team is confident of having competitive success." In past competitions UMN has been a frequent top finisher.
James J. Peterson, Microsemi president and chief executive officer, said the company is excited to participate in this educational venture and to cheer on the students when they race Route 66 from Chicago. "We're planning to give them a warm California welcome when they arrive in Palm Springs this July," he said.
About Microsemi
Microsemi is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of analog, mixed-signal and discrete semiconductors. The company's semiconductors manage and regulate power, protect against transient voltage spikes and transmit, receive and amplify signals.
Microsemi products include individual components as well as complete circuit solutions that enhance customer designs by providing battery optimization, reducing size or protecting circuits. Markets the company serves include mobile connectivity, computer/peripherals, telecommunications, medical, industrial/commercial, space/satellite and military.
More information may be obtained by contacting the company directly or by visiting its Web site at http://www.microsemi.com.
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Investor Inquiries: David R. Sonksen, Microsemi Corp., Irvine, Calif. 949/221-7100.