Semtech Introduces Single-Cell AA/AAA, 555-Like Analog Timer With Battery-Safe Operation

Semtech Corp. (Nasdaq: SMTC), a leading supplier of analog and mixed-signal semiconductors, today announced a sub-1 V analog timer platform that revolutionizes the conventional 555 timer for low-voltage, battery-operated small appliances. The new SX8122 analog timer offers the best-in-class battery life via its intrinsic 0.9 V operation, without the need for an external boost converter and inductor, saving board space and cost. It also adds low-voltage features to the legacy 555 timer, with one output that controls a DC motor or another continuous low-voltage element and another output that generates a pulse train to drive a high-brightness LED from a single battery. This combination of features makes the SX8122 ideal for a wide range of small consumer home and office appliances, such as electric toothbrushes, buzzers, toys, and LED pointers. The device also includes a voltage monitor to enable a simple USB charger for NiMH or NiCd supplied devices.

“The 555 timer is one of the most popular ICs ever, because it is easy to use, cost-effective and a proven performer,” said Michel Chevroulet, System Engineering Manager for Semtech’s Advanced Communications and Sensing Group. “By embedding unique low-voltage features, the SX8122 extends the versatility of the 555 timer to drive smaller size, lighter weight, and lower cost in battery-enabled consumer products. The SX8122 is the industry’s first analog timer embedding low-voltage features for single AA/AAA cell-powered appliances.”

The new Semtech SX8122 timer operates between 0.9 V and 2 V over the full industrial temperature range of -40 to +85°C, making it ideally suited to run from one AA or AAA alkaline, NiMH or NiCd battery. The device has a continuous output that can be activated on the press of a button to control either a DC motor or other continuous low voltage function, as well as a burst output to drive a high-brightness white or green LED, or other feature requiring a voltage boost. The SX8122 timer is programmable via external resistors and a capacitor, similar to the legacy 555 analog timer but at 1 V, and is designed for on/off button debouncing, delayed start-up functions, and analog programmable sequencing and time-out in toys and remote control applications.