AMI Semiconductor Demonstrates Robust LIN Protocol and Dynamic Addressing

    MUNICH, Germany--Nov. 12, 2002--AMI Semiconductor (AMIS) is demonstrating its enhanced Local Interconnect Network (LIN) protocol this week at Electronica.
    The LIN Protocol was designed by a consortium of European auto manufacturers as a low-cost, short-distance, low-speed network for automotive application.
    The AMIS LIN concept helps enable the implementation of System-on-Chip (SoC) transceiver solutions in automotive applications. These solutions deliver improved performance, maximum speed, and lower costs compared to standard Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter (UART) based designs.
    In addition to the LIN protocol, AMIS also provides a solution for dynamic addressing that allows the use of interchangeable modules and provides easy detection and pinpointing of multi-node network faults.
    The AMIS LIN protocol exhibits robustness against noise spikes, ground shifts, variations in supply voltage level and duty cycle that are often encountered in automotive applications. Network speeds of 20K bits/s can be reliably achieved in these harsh environments without needing to use crystal oscillators that would incur additional cost and complexity.
    The use of dynamic addressing means that addresses can be assigned within the system, allowing customers to use identical modules within a multi-node network. Modules stay fully interchangeable, allowing for smaller inventories throughout the supply chain and simplified after-sales maintenance.
    In a situation where a module within a network fails, dynamic addressing is able to locate and isolate the fault and ensure that all remaining modules continue to operate unaffected.
    "Performance and low cost in harsh environments are key drivers for emerging technology in the automotive market," said Karl Britton, product marketing engineer with AMIS. "Our enhanced LIN protocol and dynamic addressing demonstrations at Electronica will clearly illustrate how we can support these needs through innovative methodology and design."

    About AMI Semiconductor

    AMI Semiconductor (AMIS) is a world leader in the design and manufacture of application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). As a widely recognized innovator in state-of-the-art mixed-signal technologies and mid-range digital ASICs including ASIC conversion services, AMIS is committed to providing customers with the lowest cost, quickest time-to-market ASIC solutions. Offering unparalleled manufacturing flexibility and dedication to customer service, AMI Semiconductor operates globally with headquarters in Pocatello, Idaho, European corporate offices in Oudenaarde, Belgium, and a network of sales and design centers located in the key markets of the United States, Europe and the Asia Pacific region. Visit AMI Semiconductor Web site at http://www.amis.com.