poLight and Semtech announce the release of optimized driver for the TLens™

Semtech releasing its new SX8750 driver, in line with poLight TLens™ specification for fast, low cost autofocus for mobile phones

Camarillo, California - July 03, 2012

poLight, the world leader in high-speed and ultra-low power autofocus actuated lenses, together with Semtech Corporation (Nasdaq:SMTC), a leading supplier of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors, announced today the availability of the first driver dedicated to the TLens™ platform. This ultra-small 8-pins driver will perfectly integrate into small camera module designs to drive the TLens™ to its best performance.

poLight has developed three different actuated autofocus devices based on a patented technology using its optical MEMS and polymer. This technology is to be integrated in camera modules based on 1/5” to 1/2.5” sensor format, reaching 5MP to 12MP and higher resolutions.   

Christian Dupont, CEO of poLight, said, “Besides the integrated charge pump that provides sufficient voltage to activate the TLens™, Semtech’s driver’s main features are its small size, low power and optimized performance, which are essential factors when combined with poLight TLens™. The Semtech driver is suitable for different types of new imaging applications enabled by the TLens™ Autofocus speed. 

Semtech announced the availability of its SX8750 driver for capacitive and piezoelectric actuators targeting next generation Mobile Phone and PC camera modules. The SX8750, optimized for the poLight TLens™’s new technology, enables faster auto-focus, enhanced image quality and a smaller form factor camera module. The SX8750 platform combines high voltage and ultra-fast driver technology with ultra-low current consumption from 3V with no external coil. These unique features combine to drive MEMS based actuators for a larger camera resolution and a true real-time auto-focus, now up to 20x faster than traditional VCM technology, at a fraction of the power consumption.  

“By joining forces with poLight in the launch of TLens™’s new technology, we wanted to push the boundaries of camera modules,” said Marc Pegulu, Senior Marketing Director for Semtech Wireless & Sensing Products. “The TLens™ associated to our driver will change the imaging and video user experience and open new, real-time video applications for further advancements in the Mobile market.”

Key Features

• 2.65 - 3.6 V supply, -16 V to +30 V differential output
• Low power with less than 5mW averaged in active mode and with  1 uA listen mode current consumption
• Small form factor: CSP 0.8x1.6x0.5mm
• No coil or flying capacitor required for minimal total solution area
• I²C controlled 10 bit differential DAC for precise focus
• Low Interference thanks to lowest current consumption
• Allows for 1 ms settling time with TLens™

Applications

• Mobile and Smart Phone Camera Module
• Video Conference Call Camera Module

Availability

The SX8750 is sampling now and will be available in September in production quantities of 3,000-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 at www.semtech.com/info.

About poLight

poLight is developing micro-optic autofocus components for the mobile phone industry. Its patented proprietary technology based on deformable polymers and Optical MEMs, enables high performances that make new camera applications possible, while reducing the overall cost of camera modules. Originating from a spin-off from Ignis, poLight received, during 2009, investments from Viking Venture III AS, Alliance Venture Polaris AS, Sintef Venture III AS, Ignis ASA and more recently from Investinor AS, in 2011, poLight's objective is to lead the mobile phone camera module market with the world’s smallest and most cost-efficient autofocus lens. poLight is based in Horten, Norway. For more information, visit www.polight.com. 

About Semtech

Semtech Corporation is a leading supplier of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors for high-end consumer, computing, communications and industrial equipment. Products are designed to benefit the engineering community as well as the global community. The company is dedicated to reducing the impact it, and its products, have on the environment. Internal green programs seek to reduce waste through material and manufacturing control, use of green technology and designing for resource reduction. Publicly traded since 1967, Semtech is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol SMTC. For more information, visit www.semtech.com.

Press Contact

Pauline Cadena, Public Relations, Telephone: (805) 389-2755