Dual voltage translators bridge the gap

Two new ultracompact voltage translators simplify interfacing between low-voltage microprocessors and higher-voltage peripherals in cellphones and notebooks.

Two new ultracompact voltage translators simplify interfacing between low-voltage microprocessors and higher-voltage peripherals in cellphones and notebooks.

The new Fairchild FXL4245 series of 8bit bidirectional low-voltage logic-level translators feature space saving, and provide a low-noise buffered interface with up to 24mA drive current between any 1.1-3.6V logic state.

Both models in the series accommodate bidirectional voltage translation over a variety of logic voltage levels, including 1.2, 1.5, 1.8, 2.5 and 3.3V.

The FXL4245 and FXLH42245 provide configurable voltage supplies (VCCA and VCCB) for the input and output that allow translation from low to high (A to B) or high to low (B to A).

In addition to tristate outputs for logic-level translation, a standard feature of both devices, the FXLH42245 adds two additional capabilities.

These include series resistance on the B-side I/O ports for noise suppression and bus hold inputs to maintain the last logic state.

All devices are offered in a 24-terminal moulded leadless package (MLP) that provides a 68 % size reduction over 24-lead TSSOP packages.

Furthermore, the MLP package's MSL-1 (moisture sensitivity level) rating eliminates the need for costly dry bag storage prior to use on the production line.

From a manufacturing standpoint, lead-free (Pb-free) FXL4245 series devices can withstand end user lead-free PC board attachment processes up to 250C.

All models in the series meet or exceed the requirements of the joint IPC/JEDEC standard J-STD-020B and are compliant with European Union requirements that will take effect in 2005.

"The FXL4245 device gives designers the flexibility to match I/Os of existing microprocessors to those of higher voltage functions, such as flash, panel display, and peripherals".

"Another design benefit is the device's MLP packaging, which supports the miniaturisation trend in portables", says Ken Murphy, Fairchild Marketing Manager for Logic Products.

Other product features of the FXL4245 series include: fully configurable - inputs track VCC levels; nonpreferential power-up sequencing - either VCC may be powered up first; device remains in tristate until both VCCs reach an active level; outputs switch to tristate if either VCC is at GND; power-off protection of I/Os and control pins; and minimum 4kV HBM (human body model) ESD protection, and 8kV HBM I/O-to-ground protection.

The dual-voltage translators expand Fairchild's portfolio of products for portable applications.

These products include analogue switches, audio amplifiers, LED drivers and LEDs for backlighting, supervisory products such as temperature sensors and reset generator circuits, and a variety of DC/DC conversion products including LDOs and MOSFETs.

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