Hub controller has green credentials

A highly integrated USB 2.0 hub controller is manufactured with eco-friendly materials that serve to minimise environmental impacts.

The latest addition to the range of Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 semiconductor solutions from NEC Electronics is a highly integrated USB 2.0 hub controller manufactured with eco-friendly materials that serve to minimise environmental impacts.

This new device, part number uPD720114, is the first product in NEC Electronics' new EcoUSB family of USB devices.

"USB 2.0 has proven to be an exceptionally popular technology, as users become increasingly interested in moving large media files between digital devices", said Katsuhiko Nakazawa, General Manager, PC Peripheral Systems Division, NEC Electronics Corporation.

"However, the popularity of USB-based products means that original equipment manufacturers must consider a variety of environmental factors prior to bringing their designs to market".

"How much power will be consumed? Will improper disposal introduce potentially dangerous substances to the environment?".

"To help alleviate worries about these issues, NEC Electronics is developing an EcoUSB family of USB 2.0 solutions".

A variety of features and materials makes the PD720114 device an eco-friendly choice.

Reconfiguration of the controller's communication logic has enabled on-chip integration of parts that formerly needed to be off chip, including the voltage regulator, several resistors and the serial ROM that manages information related to the hub's configuration, helping to reduce the number of components required in a USB 2.0-based system.

The alignment of pins and placement of circuits also have been optimised, shrinking the controller's footprint to 7mm2 and its mounting area by approximately 60% compared with previous models.

This optimisation means that fewer materials are needed during the fabrication process and that stresses to the environment will be minimal on the controller's final disposal.

Environmental concerns related to power consumption have been addressed to such a degree that, measured against earlier generations, the uPD720114 consumes 10% less power in full-speed operation and 20% less in standby.

For compliance with the Restrictions of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive for the European Union, the uPD720114 hub controller uses a halogen-free sealing resin designed to minimise negative environmental effects over the whole of the controller's life.

Samples of the new uPD720114 USB 2.0 hub controller are available now.

Production quantities are also available.

Availability is subject to change.

Back to top