Innovative Solution Integrates Flash with Market-Leading Code Database to Speed Time-to-Market, Reduce BOM Costs and Achieve Major Manufacturing Benefits

SAN JOSE, Calif., March 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Zilog, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZILG) a leading supplier of 8-, 16- and 32-bit embedded Flash microcontrollers, universal remote control and ARM(R) core-based solutions, today announced its first series of Flash-based universal infrared remote control (UIR) solutions. Zilog's new Crimzon(R) ZLF645 series UIR microcontrollers integrate up to 64 KB of Flash memory technology with Zilog's industry-leading ZBase(TM) code database. In addition to the Flash memory, several new design features have been added to the series, including innovative new enhanced IR learning remote functionality. The Crimzon(R) ZLF645 microcontroller creates a powerful solution that accelerates time-to- market, substantially reduces bill of material (BOM) costs and offers customers significantly higher levels of design and manufacturing flexibility. Target applications for this new part include universal remote controls and learning remote controls, as well as other UIR and wireless control applications.

By offering a complete solution that wraps silicon, platform software, ZBase(TM), Zilog's most comprehensive IR code-set database, and engineering services, Zilog's customers can now program their applications into Flash memory with a full database at the final manufacturing stage. Design and manufacturing benefits aside, Zilog's new UIR solution also passes on major bill-of-material (BOM) cost savings to its customers. For instance, with 64 KB of Flash memory, the ZLF645 can store user-programmed data, IR learning signal timing and the IR code database, removing the need for an external EEPROM. Also, with an integrated IR learning amplifier, the ZLF645 alleviates the need for an external filter, amplifier, and automatic gain control circuit, thereby decreasing overall BOM costs even further.

"The launch of our first embedded Flash UIR solution is a huge plus for our customers, and further reinforces our technology leadership in the UIR market," commented Ray Chock, vice president and general manager of Zilog's Wireless Control Business Unit. "Our ZBase(TM) code-set database has continuously demonstrated industry leading market coverage, and with the addition of our new Flash-based ZLF645 UIR solution, we are now offering our customers a complete UIR solution that couples the best coverage and knowledge-base with the best costs, features and performance of any UIR solution on the market today."

About Zilog's Industry-Leading ZBase(TM) IR Code-set Database:

Database coverage is a critical element in the UIR arena. Zilog's ZBase(TM) database has outperformed competing databases, and still covers the widest array of consumer products. Key products that are supported with ZBase(TM) IR databases include TVs, DVRs, DVDs, AV Receivers, and cable & satellite set top boxes. Zilog's zero defect policy assures precise capture of the OEM remote control codes, and is validated by independent 3rd party tests.

    About the new Crimzon(R) ZLF645 Flash UIR Microcontroller Solution:
    Key features for the new Flash UIR solution include the following:

    -- Crimzon(R) LXMC microcontroller core
    -- 32/64 KB of Flash memory
    -- 512 B/1 KB RAM
    -- Up to 40 I/O pins
    -- Built in IR Timer
    -- Patented T8/T16 timer pair
    -- High and low voltage detection
    -- Programmable watchdog timer of up to 5 seconds timeout period
    -- 2 comparators
    -- 6 interrupt vectors with 23 interrupt sources
    -- Flexible STOP mode recovery from 14 sources
    -- Programmable internal port pull up transistor on each port - PO, P1,
       P2, P3 and P4
    -- Low STOP mode current
    -- 2.0 -3.6 V operation

For more information on the new Crimzon(R) ZLF645 UIR microcontroller solution, visit www.zilog.com/crimzon.

Development Tools:

Development tool support for the new Crimzon(R) ZLF645 microcontroller family includes a reference design evaluation board and a full set of support documentation. Each evaluation board comes complete with an installation CD that includes PC test suite software (supports all commands through RS-232 or I2C), documentation (User Manual, Reference Manual, Quick Start Guide, Cross Ref, Product Brief, Product Specification, etc.), and a 9-pin RS-232 interface cable. The tool kit also includes a USB-to-Serial adapter cable. PC system requirement supports RS-232 or USB and XP operating systems. For more information on the Crimzon(R) ZLF645 series development tools, visit http://www.zilog.com/crimzon.

Pricing and Availability:

The Crimzon(R) ZLF645 product family is available from Zilog and its worldwide network of distribution partners and representatives. Pricing varies based on order quantity and product requirements. Typically, the ZLF645 with 64 KB of Flash is sold in production volumes ranging from $1.40 to $1.70. For more information, visit Zilog's website at http://www.zilog.com or contact your local Zilog distribution or sales representative for information or to obtain a quote.

About Zilog:

Founded in 1974, Zilog is a global supplier of 8-, 16- and 32-bit microcontroller and microprocessor "system-on-a-chip" (SoC) solutions that allow design engineers the freedom and creativity required for continued innovation in embedded design. The company won international acclaim for designing one of the first architectures in the microprocessors and microcontrollers industry. Today, Zilog designs, develops and markets a broad portfolio of devices for embedded control and communication applications used in consumer electronics, home appliances, security systems, Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals, personal computer peripherals, as well as industrial and automotive applications. Zilog is headquartered in San Jose, California, and employs approximately 500 people worldwide with sales offices throughout Asia, Europe and North America. For more information about Zilog and its products, visit the company's website at www.zilog.com.

Zilog, ZBase, and Crimzon are trademarks or registered trademarks of Zilog Incorporated.

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     Stew Chalmers
     Ph:  818-681-3588
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