Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. Replaces Bipolar Switch Family for Improved Performace and Additional Packaging Options

Worcester, MA, June 9, 2005 — Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces the A120x family, which is intended not only to replace our legacy A3132/3/4 family of bipolar switches with improved performance, but also to offer our customers a wider variety of packaging options. Additionally, for the first time, Allegro is offering a Pb-free plating option for with our bipolar switch family to comply with various international standards.

The Allegro A1201/02/03/04 Hall-effect bipolar switches are stress-resistant sensor ICs suited for operation over extended temperature ranges. These devices are drop-in replacements for the popular Allegro A3132, A3133 and A3134 line of sensor ICs. This family produced in BiCMOS technology features fast power-on time and low noise operation. The high performance is made possible through unique Hall plate geometries and low offset low noise amplifiers that minimize noise and reduce the residual offset voltage normally caused by device over-molding, temperature dependencies and thermal stress. The device's magnetic switchpoints are optimized at test with end-of-line trimming, which provides tighter switchpoint ranges than the A313X line of bipolar switches. All devices in the family are identical except for magnetic switchpoints.

New packaging selections for this product line offer customers more options in design, while an extended temperature range is available for automotive and industrial markets. Targeted to the consumer, computer/office, industrial and automotive markets, the A120x family is provided in a three-pin single in-line package (UA) and a three-pin surface-mount package (LH).

About Allegro

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. is a leader in developing, manufacturing and marketing high-performance power and Hall-effect sensor integrated circuits. Allegro's innovative solutions serve high-growth applications within the automotive, communications, computer/office automation, consumer and industrial markets. Allegro is headquartered in Worcester, Massachusetts (USA) with design and applications centers located in North and South America, Asia, and Europe. Further information about Allegro can be found at www.allegromicro.com.

Editorial Contact:
Stephanie Fennelly
Director - Marketing Communications
Tel: (508) 854-5363
sfennelly@allegromicro.com