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STMicroelectronics Delivers Single-Chip VGA Camera for High-Volume Mobile Applications

Contributed by: ByteEnable

February 09 2005 - STMicroelectronics (NYSE:STM) , a world leader in CMOS imaging technology, has introduced its latest single-chip VGA camera module for entry-level mobile phones and other portable devices. The tiny VS6524 leverages three main imaging strengths of ST: advanced optical packaging, the latest 3.6-µm pixel design, and system-on-chip integration expertise.

The complete VGA (640 x 480-pixel) camera subsystem with miserly power consumption inside an ultra-small 7 x 7 x 4.5-mm package targets high-volume mobile platforms, such as entry-level mobile phones, PDAs, and videophones. The chip is manufactured using ST's 0.18-µm CMOS Imaging process, which enables integration of a high-sensitivity pixel array with 1/6" optical format, a digital image processor tailored to the pixel characteristics, and analog system functions on a single chip.

The VS6524 produces an industry-standard ITU-R BT.656-4 compliant digital video stream at up to 30 frames per second (fps). The embedded Image Signal Processor (ISP) provides best-in-class picture quality utilizing the Company's proven algorithms for pixel defect correction, lens shading compensation, sharpness enhancement, gamma correction, demosaicing, downscaling, and color space conversion.

The low-height dual-element plastic lens with the 50° horizontal field-of-view and a minimum focus distance of 20 cm facilitates macro image capture. The integrated flexible camera controller supports automatic exposure control, white balance control, display flicker elimination and flashgun control in both automatic and user-defined operation modes.

"Entry-level mobile phones increasingly feature an embedded camera in order to enable such popular services as MMS or picture messaging," said Jean-Yves Gomez, General Manager of ST's Imaging Division. "Our latest VGA all-in-one camera module is a perfect match to our customers' requirements for cost-sensitive high-volume phone platforms. It provides outstanding image quality in a tiny module easy to integrate in their design."

ST's advanced SmOP II (Small Optical Package) technology packages the sensor chip with the lens in a fully automated assembly test and focus process, allowing high volume and low-cost production. Passive components are also embedded in the module thereby further reducing footprint on the main printed circuit board.

The full range of power management features, including power switches, power-safe pins, power-on reset cell, and core-voltage regulator, enables straightforward camera activation and an ultra-low standby current of 10-microamps. The module operates from a main power supply ranging from 2.4V to 3.0V and the camera interface signals use a separate 1.8V or 2.8V supply rail.

Engineering samples, as well as the evaluation kits (USB 2.0 camera) are available now. The volume production of the VS6524 is scheduled for Q2 2005. The complete camera module with flexible printed circuit and board-to-board connector is priced at $6 in large quantities.

For further information on ST's complete range of CMOS imaging.

About STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a key role in enabling today's convergence markets. The Company's shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on Euronext Paris and on the Milan Stock Exchange. In 2004, the Company's net revenues were $8.76 billion and net earnings were $601 million.

FUJITSU: Ultra-Silent, 10A Relay Provides High Insulation in a Small Package

/noticias.info/ Sunnyvale, Calif. -- June 13, 2005 ? Using a patented mechanical design, Fujitsu Components America, Inc. today released a 10A power relay with a maximum noise level of 50dB for use in sophisticated consumer appliances, such as digital televisions. An internal U-shaped spring enables the relay?s low noise level even when mounted on a printed circuit board.

The FTR-H3 is a 1 Form A relay with a switching voltage of 400VAC and 300VDC. It carries a 78A inrush rating, and features 8mm clearance distance between coil and contacts for high-insulation resistance.

This silent relay has dimensions of 28.8L x 13.7W x 18.8Hmm. It comes in standard coil voltages of 5, 6, 9, 12, 24 and 48VDC and features 530mW nominal power.

With an electrical life of 100 thousand operations at rated load (10A, 250VAC), the relay meets TV-5 standards. It also meets UL, CSA and VDE certifications.

The FTR-H3 has an operating temperature range of -40 to +75 degrees C. It has a surge withstand voltage of 10,000V (min.) and features 5,000VAC dielectric strength between coil and contacts. The expected mechanical life is 2 million operations.

The FTR-H3 is constructed of RoHS compliant materials, cadmium-free contacts and bromine-free plastic to meet environmental disposal program requirements.

The FTR-H3 power relay series is available immediately. It is priced at $1.20 per device in ten thousand-piece quantities. Delivery is 12 weeks ARO.

Company Information
Fujitsu Components America, Inc. markets and distributes electronic components throughout North and South America. Products include relays, connectors, keyboards, input and pointing devices, touch panels, thermal printers and KVM switches. The company is headquartered at 250 E. Caribbean Drive, Sunnyvale, California, 94089. For product information, telephone 1-800-380-0059, email marcom@fcai.fujitsu.com, or access the FCAI Web Site at http://www.fcai.fujitsu.com.

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