AMI Semiconductor's New Octal High-side Driver Provides Simplified Control of Automotive Loads; Miniature ASSP Integrates Eight Drivers, Protection, Microcontroller Interface, Charge Pump and Diagnostics into Single SO28

POCATELLO, Idaho--July 24, 2006--AMI Semiconductor , a designer and manufacturer of state-of-the-art integrated mixed-signal and structured digital products for the automotive, medical and industrial markets, has expanded its family of ASSPs (application specific standard products) with a new high-side driver IC that will simplify the control of transistor gates, relays, valves, solenoids, LEDs and other loads in 12V automotive environments.

Supplied in a compact SO28 package, the AMIS-39100 is a highly integrated driver IC, with eight high side (HS) output drivers and a range of functions and features designed to significantly reduce component count and cost. Built-in functionality includes a serial-to-parallel interface (SPI) for direct connection to a microcontroller, an integrated diagnostic circuit, a charge pump, and short circuit and thermal overload protection.

Each of the eight output drivers can drive a continuous current of 275mA when connected to an inductive load of 300mH. Higher individual output currents are possible by limiting device current to the total maximum. The drivers will withstand short circuits to the battery or to ground, respectively, even in situations where the device itself has lost its ground connection. The drivers also provide over-current limiting and in the case of a fault condition are switched off. Furthermore, the integrated charge pump and over-temperature protection circuitry avoid the possibility of thermal runaway, even at low battery voltages.

Compatible with 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers, the SPI interface is used to control each of the individual output drivers and to provide a route for the integrated diagnostic circuit to feedback error signals. The interface can also be used to read back the status of the built-in thermal shutdown protection function.

The AMIS-39100 ASSP incorporates a power down mode to reduce power consumption during non-active periods and uses an integrated slope control function that ensures low electromagnetic emission (EME). Operating temperature is rated at -40(degree)C and 105(degree)C.

"Automotive designers are demanding actuator and controller solutions that help them simplify and speed application development," says Tony Denayer, AMI Semiconductor's senior vice president, high voltage communications and ASSPs. "The high levels of integration that the AMIS-39100 offers addresses this demand, and complements our existing range of standard components for driving and controlling motors and loads in automotive applications."

The AMIS-39100 is automotive-compliant and available now at a cost of $1.92 each for 1000 pieces.

About AMI Semiconductor

AMI Semiconductor (AMIS) is a leader in the design and manufacture of silicon solutions for the real world. As a widely recognized innovator in state-of-the-art integrated mixed-signal products, mixed-signal foundry services and structured digital products, AMIS is committed to providing customers with the optimal value, quickest time-to-market semiconductor 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 North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific region.

For more information please visit the AMIS Web site at www.amis.com.