Plessey's bipolar process technology now available

The first two Plessey products now in product test have been produced on the W-series process. The process exhibits very good low current performance, high linearity, and because of the single crystal emitter structure has inherently low flicker noise. These attributes are particularly effective in communication applications including low current circuits, synthesisers and tuners.

“Not only is the process an excellent tool for communications products, the W-series linear bipolar process also offers excellent packing density. When this attribute is coupled with a transistor BVCEO of 18 volts we are able to design a competitive range of linear power devices,” said Dr. Peter Osborne, Chief Technologist. “In the third quarter of this year, we will be releasing a range of power management devices that should provide up to 30% efficiency improvements over what is currently available from competitive process technologies.”

Dr. Paul James, Commercial Director, said, “This is good news and is a positive indication for the remaining bipolar transfers. We have our range of high performance analog RF components on our complementary bipolar processes and these are now expected out in August of this year. We are on plan and continue to receive encouraging signs from our customers and the markets.”

Plessey Semiconductors announced in February that it was releasing a new range of products from its facility in Plymouth, England. They also recently announced that they had passed the audits for TS16949, ISO9001 and ISO14001 certification.