Dual SCART chips cut STB power use

From Maxim Integrated Products comes the +3.3V dual SCART solutions with audio volume control for STBs and A/V receivers that have two SCART connectors.

The MAX9670/MAX9671 use power-saving technologies to achieve what it claims to be the industry's lowest power consumption. They also integrate Maxim's patented DirectDrive technology to prevent click-and-pop noise and cut the need for costly AC-coupling capacitors on the audio outputs. At 49mm? or smaller, the MAX9670/MAX9671 are the smallest complete dual SCART solutions.

Though competing dual SCART devices require +5V and +12V supplies, the MAX9670/MAX9671 operate A/V circuitry from +3.3V and only require +12V for the slow-switching signal. An internal charge pump inverts the +3.3V supply and generates a -3.3V supply, thereby providing sufficient voltage swing to support 2.0Vrms audio. Combined with the devices' low operating current, this low-voltage operation reduces power consumption to 70mW during quiescent operation and 471mW during normal operation. Additionally, these SCART ICs integrate load-detect and activity-detect circuitry that enables designers to intelligently reduce system power consumption for extended power savings.

The MAX9670 is available in a compact, 6mm x 6mm, 40-pin TQFN package, while the MAX9671 is packaged in a 7mm x 7mm, 44-pin TQFN. Both devices are fully specified over the 0°C to +70°C commercial temperature range. Prices start at $1.50 (1,000-up, FOB USA). An evaluation kit is available to speed designs.