Xicor-Division of Intersil

Xicor, a division of Intersil, specializes primarily in the design and manufacture of semiconductor components, particularly focusing on programmable and non-volatile memory solutions. Xicor's product offerings are distinguished by their use of advanced memory technology, which includes EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) and Flash memory. These components are designed for applications requiring reliable data retention and fast access times, demonstrating features such as low power consumption and high endurance cycles, often exceeding 1 million write/erase cycles in some products.

Among the notable product lines from Xicor are the X24C series of EEPROMs, which integrate features such as I2C interface capabilities and varying densities from kilobits to megabits. These chips are characterized by their low-voltage operation (often down to 1.8V) and are essential in systems where non-volatility and data integrity are critical, such as in consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial controls. Additionally, Xicor offers programmable gain amplifiers (PGAs) and digital potentiometers that are paramount in precision analog signal processing applications, allowing for dynamic adjustments in resistance and gain.

Key specifications of Xicor’s components often include operational temperature ranges suitable for industrial environments, a high degree of integration leading to smaller PCB footprints, and compliance with various industry standards for reliability and environmental conditions. Moreover, the integration of user-configurable memory segments in their EEPROMs enables greater flexibility in applications across sectors, including medical devices, telecommunications, and automotive electronics where real-time data logging is essential.

In summary, Xicor’s focus on non-volatile memories and related analog components makes it a pivotal supplier for industries that prioritize data retention and reliability. Their innovations support a wide array of applications ranging from consumer gadgets to critical industrial systems, leveraging advanced technology to meet the evolving needs of electronic design engineers.