Dallas Semi Intros DS1680 Portable System Controller for Touch-Screen Applications
Dallas Semiconductor (Dallas, TX) is introducing the new DS1680 portable system controller for touch-screen applications. The company claims that this device is the first IC to combine touch-screen control with complete power and processor monitoring and control, as well as a system real-time clock. The product, available for 3.3V and 5V supplies, is designed for handheld electronics that use 4-wire touch-screen technology.
In the DS1680, an on-chip ac/dc converter and logic circuitry determine the contact position on a touch screen. Other circuits monitor power and automatically switch between system and back-up supplies, and initiate processor shutdown or start-up as needed. Push-button reset is also enabled, and a watchdog circuit monitors software operation and initiates reset upon time-out. The DS1680 also features Dallas Semiconductor's CMOS technology.
Product Manager Jim Waldron commented, “Until now, touch-screen control circuits have been available separately or in less efficient combinations. The DS1680 is the first to condense the complete set of time and control functions into one chip, simultaneously unburdening the processor and preserving system resources."
The DS1680 is available in versions for 3.3V and 5V supplies. Both versions are packaged in a 44-pin MQFP, priced at $5.04 each in quantities of 1,000. The product is currently available for sampling, with full production expected in the first quarter of 2001.
