» Audio amplifiers and converters were well represented, with TI's Class-D audio amplifiers dominating this category, outscoring the second ranked product - Intersil's signal switches - by more than two: one on the technological significance scale. Analog Devices also deserves special recognition since two of its products made it on this list.

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TEXAS INSTRUMENTS
Class-D audio power amplifiers balanced just right for small LCD TVs
eeProductCenter's Paul O'Shea says: "Two new stereo Class-D audio power amplifiers for 17 to 23 inch LCD-TVs provide TV manufacturers with the feature set required to meet high efficiency audio demands.The two new devices feature efficient Class-D operation, driving up to 10W of continuous stereo output power with no external heat sink, simplifying design and reducing component count, total system cost and space requirements for LCD-TVs. The TPA3005D2 and TPA3008D2 are 92 percent efficient when driving 16-ohm speakers. Competitive Class-D amplifiers operate 120 percent hotter, and competitive Class-AB or linear amplifiers operate 140 percent hotter. The TI Class-D amplifiers' high efficiency results from their 250-kHz pulse width modulated operation and extremely low output FET on resistance [RDS(on)]. Competitive solutions switch at higher frequencies or feature scaled-down output FETs, which cuts cost but reduces efficiency and increases heat. "
Readers say: » "Though these ICs were designed for LCD TV applications, we may use these parts for other, similar, audio apps." » "It's nice to see that TI are always pushing the envelope, typically a stereo class D amp is usually more involved. But with the advent of tighter geometries, they can provide more of an integrated solution. Which in the long run makes it easier for the end user to design it in. I was a little skeptical about applying a square into a speaker, but they did a commendable job of explaining their position in the data sheet." » "I am currently using TPA3001, a winner!" » "They rock!" » "I have liked Class-D amplifiers since I first saw them over 30 years ago for AM broadcast transmitters." » "Switching amps are useful design blocks, but the specmanship is a bit troubling. The accompanying graphs indicate that the useful power is more in the 6 watt range, after which the distortion seems to go south in a hurry" » "At first glance 10W doesn't seem like much output for the target market, and look how the THD goes way up at full rated output." » "Considering the output power, the fact that no heat sink is required is pretty cool. I wish I had a project that needed an audio power amp, just to try these!" » "There are other uses for the class D amp, such as driving sensor excitation coils or small motors. TI should also include these applications in their product descriptions" » "The reliability of these components over the competition is enhanced due to the lower operating junction temperature." » "Small size and great choice of package design makes it a hit for small space applications. Pricing is exceptional and the choice of gain without external resistors os a great plus!!" » "They are great!" » "Excellent product" » "These are the coolest (literally!) amplifier products on the market." » "Less parts and cooler too, wow." » "If more products were as efficient as class-D amplifiers we wouldn't have any energy shortages." » "This is real progress."
USABILITY RANK: 1

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INTERSIL
New switches offer industry's highest ESD withstand rating, very low power
eeProductCenter's Paul O'Shea says: "The MightyMUX ISL84714, ISL84715 and ISL84716 are bi-directional, ultra-low resistance, low-voltage, analog signal switches intended for use in cellphones, Smartphones, PDAs and other portable battery-powered products. The ISL84714 is a guaranteed break-before-make single-pole double-throw (SPDT) switch, while the ISL84715 and ISL84716 are normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC) SPST switches respectively. The R(ON) conduction resistance of each switch is much less than 1 Ohm over the full input range, which reduces signal loss to improve audio output levels in battery powered handheld products. When operated from a 3.3-V supply, the ISL84714 switches have a typical R(on) flatness of 0.06 Ohms while the ISL84715 and ISL84716 have a flatness of 0.038 Ohms, making all three new switches ideal for use in low distortion audio paths such as MP3 players in cell phones and CD audio devices. Drawing much less than 1 uA from a 3.6-V supply, the very low power consumption contributes to extended battery life in handheld products. "
Readers say: » "Great replacement for the MAX4714" » "Very, very interested in low to very low power applications." » "Since the pocket electronics industries are booming.. I'd say these highly efficient switches will be one in many next steps to help preserve battery life and quality of electronics. I look forward to potentially using them." » "Less than 1uA and less than 1 ohm is fantastic. Anything to increase usable battery life is most welcome." » "I was hoping to see a wider bandwidth." » "I think that it is very important for low-voltage analog switches to be ESD resistant when designed for use in handheld applications. Most users of handheld devices (phones, calculators, GPS receivers, PDAs, etc.) are not wearing an ESD wrist strap. These people may develop 35,000 volts of static potential on their bodies and therefore they pose a serious static problem to electronic equipment." » "More evoultionary than revolutionary" » "Nice set of features. Having a SPDT in the family also makes it a possible choice for battery/supply selection." » "These seem to be good candidates for data acquisition multiplexers" » "Nice, but I'd like to see these same parts in a bipolar or at least a higher max voltage version." » "I am currently involved with embedded systems that demand a a fairly small foot print and it looks like these devices maybe just what the doctor ordered. " » "Good specs except for the OFF isolation - obviously intended for the audio market and limited higher frequencies" » "Wow, lowest R(on) I've seen" » "I would have an application for these switches if they could run off 1.2V." » "These look like great devices for telcom applications or low voltage audio switching applications. The high ESD voltage tolerance is especially welcome."
USABILITY RANK: 2

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ANALOG DEVICES
Two fast, two accurate A/D converters help eliminate front-end conditioning
eeProductCenter's Paul O'Shea says: "This announcement is a big deal because Analog Devices (ADI) has managed to introduce two top-notch converter products that are similar yet different. Similar because both have what may be the highest speed at a very high resolution and different because they use different architectures; similar because they are 18- and 20-bit converters and different because they target dissimilar applications. The amplifier design on the AD7760 and the comparator and error correction methodology on the 7641 were the significant advancements to these parts. The 7641 and 7760 are focused on high-accuracy for industrial, instrumentation and medical applications. The 7641 is an 18-bit, 2MSPS SAR A/D converter. The 7641 will typically find a home in the main signal chain in a CAT scanner while the 20-bit AD7760, a 2.5MSPS 20-bit sigma-delta A/D converter, would be used as the main A/D converter for signal acquisition in vibration analysis applications.with the high level of oversampling, and that means less complex and less costly filtering. "
Readers say: » "ADI continues to make great products--that can be difficult to implement" » "ADI's line of Sigma-Delta converters has been the leader for several years now, causing significant changes in others' product development. That is a sign of true technological leadership." » "The high sampling rate, high precision ADC is very interesting. We develop communications systems and are always looking for better performance from ADCs." » "Good specs, but at this price, probably an interim technology" » "A/D converters are the hardest signal-processing block for a consultant to recommend, because there is always somebody eager to win brownie points by pushing something cheaper. Performance of these two is so clearly stated that the "outsider's" viewpoint is easier to maintain." » "An excellent speed and accuracy breakthrough in high-resolution ADCs. The AD7641 should find wide acceptance in CTScan and will offer a 4X throughput increase advantage in other instrumentation and industrial applications." » "Now I need to find a new product to use this very sharp IC!" » "These look great, and I have an active need for such devices." » "18 bit accuracy, 2MS/s. This beats the pants off the Datel part (ADS-953) which was also in this EE Times survey. Of course, I haven't combed through the data sheets of both parts yet, but from just these two specs, I'd say that ADI wins. Also, this ADI part costs $34, whereas the Datel part costs $500. Choosing between the two is a no-brainer." » "For applications such as portable instrumentation this looks interesting" » "Way to go ADI!" » "This A-D converter would be very useful in high-performance data acquisition where high accuracy and low parts count along with low voltage compatability is a must." » "ADI is promising too many things with these ADCs. Most importantly, mantaining accuracy at targeted conversion speed is a big step forward. Only thing from my point of view is that it should have been priced arount 35% less than what is offered now. Otherwise there is no significant cost advantage. But yes, there is a great jump in performance."
USABILITY RANK: 3

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ANALOG DEVICES
D/A converter blazes at 1.2 GSPS with 14-bit resolution
eeProductCenter's Paul O'Shea says: "Analog Devices launched the industry's first 14-bit digital-to-analog converter (DAC) to clock at a sample rate of 1.2 GSPS (giga-samples-per-second). This converter sets a new data-rate benchmark, breaking the 1000 MSPS speed barrier, while still providing superb dynamic performance. As signal processing requirements increase in speed and complexity, electronics engineers are requiring data converters that can synthesize high-quality signals at much higher frequencies. The AD9736 represents a substantial leap in speed and performance. The extremely fast data rates are made possible by the integration of LVDS digital interface technology with Analog Devices' best-in-class high-speed data converters. In addition to speed, the AD9736 features the lowest power dissipation of any high-speed 14-bit DAC available today, making it ideal for applications that require a low-power DAC to process high frequency and wide synthesis bandwidth signals. "
Readers say: » "Since this technology has now broken the 1G sample rate, with an exceptional data width of 14-bits, more stable and more precise closed-loop systems can be designed." » "Just like the ADCs, we are always looking for faster, more precise DACs." » "If you need the speed,this is the part" » "Outstanding new DAC product family potentially satisfying lots of direct synthesis applications where high dynamic performance with low power and reasonable cost are mandated. This family will need a good evaluation board to speed design-ins." » "Certainly, this is something to consider." » "This device is a great building block for signal generation. The cost, size and performance will advance the future test signal generation capability in T&M." » "Looks like a good fit for higher-end video applications" » "Good 3rd order IMD up to 200MHz--actually better at 1GSPS" » "This is great for applications that need to sample large chunks of spectrum, e.g. software radios." » "Good combination of high performance whcih should be helpful in the simulation arena and an easy to use interface." » "This device may find a home in the photonic transient suppression arena, however at present price pressure would probably preclude using this in products other than bench test equipment."
USABILITY RANK: 5

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NATIONAL SEMICONDUCTOR
High quality audio amp for the home with minimal design effort
eeProductCenter's Paul O'Shea says: "These audio amps, the LM4780/81/82, are additions to the now mature Overture family of amplifiers--Class AB audio amps designed for the higher power product. The family is built in a high-voltage bi-polar process, called HV700 that enables spike protection structures. These audio amps have extremely low noise and the distortion is very low in the 0.001 to 0.003dB levels at normal to high power levels. As you move up the THD scale the levels go up just like they would in any amplifier. These amps will be very popular in 5.1 channel DVD receivers, stereo and A/V receivers because they are esentially, bullet proof. They can be abused and put into the spike state and not sound pretty but you won't be able to blow the amp because National uses a technique called SPiKe. "
Readers say: » "Easy to use" » "They will be a hit" » "The high power capability make these stand out. There are many single-device parts that <20W. With an LM4780 bridged to mono, you could shake the room." » "Look like great products. I will be sure to keep them in mind for my next audio project." » "These amplifiers appear to be ideal for the engineer who wants to incorporate a quality amplifier with a minimal parts count while keeping engineering time (and budget) low." » "Nice feature set and enough output to be useful in a lot of different consumer audio applications. Also possible applications as ultrasonic drivers." » "National love to build amps. They should be able to sell these by the boatload." » "I like the idea of an 'idiot-proof' amp, as it makes it possible to have product that will last, even with the abuse consumers come up with." » "These could even be used as servo-drivers in some applications to save parts count and they would ensure that spikes would not cause system failures." » "Might have possibilities for a project we have been thinking of."
USABILITY RANK: 4

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LINEAR TECHNOLOGY INC.
Converter smooths the way to direct IF sampling to 500 MHz
eeProductCenter's Paul O'Shea says: "LTC has been busy developing converters. This past year we've seen them introduce a family of high-speed A/D converters, from 12-bit 25 megasmaples to 14-bit 80 megasamples. This LTC1750 is another version of an 80 MSPS part that is primarily targeted at communications and specifically base station design. The LTC1750 has one very important feature that the marketplace will really like; it allows you to eliminate an intermediate frequency (IF) down-conversion stage. "
Readers say: » "The on-chip PGA makes this undersampling converter stand out.There are faster sample rate undersampling converters, but they actually won't undersample quite up to 500 mhz as this one does." » "Specs look OK and about on par with the AD6645 or the MAX1427. PGA feature and BW3dB are good improvements." » "There are also a lot of potential (relatively low volume) applications for these in ELINT and ECM applications." » "The price point may make it possible to consider using it in some of our higher volume receiver applications." » "The 1751 may be useful for some of our remote installations, but I am concerned about the effect of fast temperature changes on performance. We experience shifts up here from -40 C to 0 C within an hour span. This is unusual, but happens a couple times each winter season." » "The PGA may provide an interesting alternative to the log amp/converter combination currently used in photonics control circuits. But would the higher converstion speed pay for the increassed firmware complexity required to manage the PGA?"
USABILITY RANK: 6

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EXAR CORP.
Programmable skew clock keeps pace with demands for lower jitter
eeProductCenter's Paul O'Shea says: "The Exar XRK499x programmable skew clocks are good matches for communications applications. The technology to build the clocks for these events is something Exar already possesses so it was no big stretch to make them for the telecom market. The family of clocks can be used in applications such as storage area networks and network switches and routers, wireless base stations, and LANs. "
Readers say: » "Would be very handy for some applications, especially for prototypig before delays are known." » "With all of the high precision clocks needed in most board designs, this looks like one of the simpler, yet more elegant solutions that I have seen." » "Frequency range is limited for our applications" » "There are many companies out there with similar product.They offer programmable clock skewing solution just like XRK499X." » "Higher clock rates anticipated?" » "It is not apparent how programmable skew can reduce jitter." » "Clever designers will probably find other uses for these parts that the manufacturer didn't envision" » "I will have a need for these in the 2.5 Vdc version " » "The temperature range makes it a good candidate for field data gathering applications." » "In the move to simplify clock distribution along with support for changing or evolving voltage standards,this should help designers immensely."
USABILITY RANK: 7

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LATTICE SEMICONDUCTOR
Programmable clock generator offers flexible skew control
eeProductCenter's Paul O'Shea says: "The first devices in Lattice Semiconductor's ispClock5500 family, the 10-output ispClock5510 and 20-output ispClock5520, combine a high- performance clock generator with a flexible, Universal Fan-out Buffer. The on-chip clock generator can provide up to 5 clock frequencies ranging from 10MHz to 320MHz using a high-performance PLL and clock multiply and divide facilities. The Universal Fan-out Buffer can drive up to 20 clock nets using either single-ended or differential signaling, with individual output control for improved signal and timing integrity. "
Readers say: » "I look forward to using the ispCLOCK family of chips on my next design to simplify the tangled web of clocks and logic that I currently use." » "This device provides unprecedented convenience in designing clock networks" » "Like the similar Exar part in this survey, I think there is potential to use this part for purposes the manufacturer did not intend. Too bad all those different output frequencies have to be integer multiples of each other ..." » "If the performance is predictable this looks interesting " » "I think the idea of programable skew can reduce overall pcb by eliminating sepentine trace layouts and possibly noise." » "Great idea but limited use."
USABILITY RANK: 8

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DATEL, INC.
A/D converter offers outstanding -95dB peak harmonic and 93 dB SNR
eeProductCenter's Paul O'Shea says: "DATEL's ADS-953 optimizes signal return paths and provides internal, local decoupling to obtain an outstanding -95dB peak harmonic specification. Signal-to-Noise Ratio, one of the most important specifications for imaging applications, is an impressive 93dB. The ADS-953 offers no missing codes over the full operating temperature range. Utilizing various mixed-signal devices the ADS-953 packages an 18-bit, one Mega-Sample-per-Second (MSPS) analog-to-digital converter in a functionally complete 32-pin TDIP ceramic hybrid. "
Readers say: » "High speed and accurate ADCs are a necessity for some of the more advanced designs that my group and I are working on." » "With monolithic designs getting so close to these hybrid designs I question their use except for the most critical application." » "FOUR supplies? Are we in the 60's here?" » "An 18 bit, 1Ms/s A/D converter is nice. However, how is it significantly different from the Analog Devices AD7679? Except that the 7679 costs a heck of a lot less than $500. Yes, the Datel part does sample at 1MS/s, whereas the ADI chip is only a few hundred kS/s. That's a good thing. But does the higher sampling rate deserve a $500 price tag? Maybe for military applications, but for most applications, I would find a way to use the ADI part if I needed 18 bits, or use a 16 bit part if I needed 1 MS/s." » "Ouch expensive !" » "Potentially replaces board level products if it works out... "
USABILITY RANK: 9

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MAXIM
Limiting amp with compatible pin-out has programmable loss-of-signal
eeProductCenter's Paul O'Shea says: "Maxim's MAX3747/MAX3747A 3.3V, low-power, multirate limiting amplifiers offer a programmable loss-of-signal (LOS) indicator. Pin-compatible to the Micrel SY88993V limiting amplifier, these devices provide higher gain, better bit-error-rate performance, and lower jitter than the SY88993V. Operating from a single 3.3V supply, the MAX3747/MAX3747A have better than 4mV input sensitivity and 120 microvolts root-mean-square input-referred noise, while consuming only 60mW. Each amplifier has a programmable signal-detect function that can be set to different assert and de-assert levels, while maintaining a 2dB hysteresis. "
Readers say: » "Yawn. Another OC-48 limiting amp. The LOS pin is a nice feature, as is the 3.3V supply. But aren't OC-48 parts as common as dirt now? I guess that this is a pin-compatible replacement for a Micrel part makes that point. It's a good thing this part only costs as much as a Sam Adams on draft -- they're both commodities."
USABILITY RANK: 10