acquisitionZONE Products for the week of August 30, 2010

Fairchild Semiconductor Says…

FXMA2102: Translator Solves Compatibility Issues in I2C Bus Applications
Configurable Dual-Voltage Supply Translator, Buffer and Repeater Ideal for Consumer Devices, Mobile Phones

Mobile device designers require a low power consumption, 2-bit voltage level translator to resolve mixed voltage compatibility issues in I2C bus applications in consumer devices and mobile phones. To meet this demand, Fairchild Semiconductor has developed the FXMA2102 – a configurable dual-voltage supply translator and level shifter that translates voltage levels in I2C bus interface applications.

The FXMA2102 is a high performance translator designed for bi-directional voltage translation between any two levels from 1.65V to 5.5V. The two ports of the device have auto-direction sensing capability, allowing either port to sense an input signal and transfer it as an output signal to the other port.

Fairchild’s device accommodates standard and fast I2C bus modes, and works as a translator, buffer and repeater. Additionally, the FXMA2102 features non-preferential power-up, allowing either VCC to be powered-up first. Inputs and outputs track VCC levels, making the device fully configurable. Additionally, the open drain inputs/outputs allow the device to work in push-pull and open drain environments.

EN-Genius Says…

The FXMA2102 is a dual voltage supply translator for bi-directional voltage translation where each of the levels can be between 1.65 V and 5.5 V. It is primarily designed for use in either standard-mode or fast-mode I2C bus interface applications and features open-drain inputs and outputs that will require external pull-up resistors.

The architecture allows for powering of either rail first and the outputs switch to tri-state if either rail is at ground level. The A and B ports track their respective rails and either port can sense an input signal and translate it to the other port. The part can effectively be a translator, buffer, isolator, or repeater. ESD protection exceeds 8 kV human body model.

The FXMA2102 is one of those granular products that will end up being sprinkled all over the place in I2C applications; it is well thought out but very simple, and will sell in huge volumes in all sorts of portable products.

The FXMA2102 is in production in both MicroPak-8 and MLP-8, priced at $0.25 in 1000-piece lots.

Data Sheet