Fairchild Introduces Camera Isolation Switch For Portable Devices

Fairchild Semiconductor announced that it is bringing designers of 3G smartphones, netbooks, set-top boxes and notebooks what it describes as the industry’s first image module switch that isolates parasitic components to maintain signal integrity. The FSA1211 is a 12-port, single pole, single throw (SPST) analog switch that isolates the high speed bus from parasitic components in dual camera applications. Smartphones feature dual cameras and as these cameras move to higher and higher resolutions, parasitic components play a critical role in deteriorating signals and generating unwanted EMI.

With a bandwidth in excess of 720MHz and high ESD (5.5 kV), the FSA1211 is said to offer an optimal way to isolate capacitance and maintain signal integrity for high speed data paths. In addition, when isolating the unused parallel interface, the FSA1211 reduces the radiated EMI of the path, improving RF desense. According to the company, the traditional parallel solution can deteriorate the signal due to the unwanted "stub," resulting in image degradation of the camera module. Another approach is to use three analog switches, which complicates design and adds to the overall bill of material (BOM) costs. In contrast, the FSA1211 is said to offer robust isolation and ease of design at a lower cost.

The FSA1211 is priced (each, 1000 pcs.) at US $0.80, with immediate delivery.