New Semtech Ultra-Low Capacitance RailClamp® Devices Provide Protection for HDMI

RClamp0502B and RClamp0514M are designed to handle surge threats in next-generation video and networking applications|||Semtech and the Semtech logo are marks of Semtech Corporation.

Camarillo, California - August 26, 2005

Semtech Corp. (Nasdaq: SMTC), a leading supplier of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors for communications, portable devices, computers, and industrial equipment, today announced the expansion of its RailClamp® protection family with two ultra-low capacitance devices designed to protect data interfaces operating at speeds higher than 2 GHz.

The RClamp0502B and RClamp0514M protect 2 lines and 4 lines, respectively, and each present a typical line-to-line capacitance of 0.7pF, making these devices the ideal choice for HDMI applications, such as plasma displays, high definition TVs, and set-top boxes. The HDMI Compliance Test Specification (CTS) requires sink (receiver) ports maintain a differential impedance of 100 Ohm +/- 15%. Too much added capacitance will cause the impedance of the differential pair to drop. With such low capacitance, the RClamp0502B and RClamp0514M meet this stringent specification, while also providing a high level of protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD) and cable discharge events (CDE).

Both devices have a flow through design for ease of layout. The pins of the RClamp0514M are spaced at a pitch of 0.5mm for reducing discontinuities on high speed lines. The RClamp0502B also has a flow through design and protects one differential pair. The versatility of this single device allows designers the freedom to separate clock and data pins.

Furthermore, neither device requires impedance compensation, such as common mode chokes, to meet the requirements of the stringent HDMI CTS. They feature extremely low clamping voltage for superior protection of sensitive ICs in high ESD threat environments. They meet IEC 61000-4-2 specification for protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD), a common phenomenon with data interfaces. The solid-state design ensures protection against repeated strikes without degradation or damage.

“Today’s very high-speed data interfaces need a new breed of protection device with the clamping and capacitance characteristics to protect downstream ICs, without impeding system performance,” said Tom Dugan, Semtech's Director of Protection Products. “With both low clamping and low capacitance, the RClamp devices stand alone in the industry as the best products for these applications.”

The lead-free design of the devices complies with the European Union’s Restriction on Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment (RoHS) directive to meet worldwide environmental and regulatory requirements.

Key Features of the RClamp0514M / RClamp0502B

  • Flow-through design
  • Low capacitance, Cj (typ) = 0.7pF (line-to-line)
  • Low clamping voltage
  • RClamp0514M: 5 x 3.1 x 1.1 mm MSOP-10 package
  • RClamp0502B: 1.7 x 1.75 x 0.9 mm SC-75 package
  • No insertion loss to 3 GHz (line-to-line)
  • Exceeds IEC61000-4-2 level 4 (±15kV air & ±8kV contact)
  • Lightning protection of up to 5A (IEC 61000-4-5)
  • Lead-free and RoHS/WEEE compliant

Pricing and Availability

The RClamp0502B, ordering code RClamp0502B.TCT, is available immediately in production quantities and is priced at $0.28 each in 1,000-piece lots. The RClamp0514M, ordering code RClamp0514M.TBT, is available immediately in production quantities and is priced at $0.52 each in 1,000-piece lots. Semtech offers comprehensive design assistance, including field- and factory-based support. Data sheets, volume pricing, and delivery quotes, as well as evaluation kits and samples, are available by contacting salesinfo@semtech.com .

About Semtech

Semtech Corporation is a leading supplier of high-quality analog and mixed-signal semiconductor products. The company is dedicated to providing customers with proprietary solutions and breakthrough technology in power management, protection, advanced communications, human interface, test & measurement, and wireless connectivity products. Publicly traded since 1967, Semtech is listed on the NASDAQ National Market under the symbol SMTC. For more information, contact Semtech Corp. at 200 Flynn Road, Camarillo, CA 93012-8790; phone (805) 498-2111; email to info@semtech.com; or visit its web site at www.semtech.com.

Semtech and the Semtech logo are marks of Semtech Corporation.

Press Contact

Terry Sears, Marketing Communications Manager, Telephone: 805.498.2111

 

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