STMicroelectronics' Audio Power Amplifier Selected for Best Electronic Design Award

GENEVA, Dec. 16, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a world leader in automotive ICs, welcomed the selection of its TDA7850LV audio power amplifier as the Best Electronic Design in the Automotive – Car Audio category by the editors of Electronic Design Magazine.

ST has pioneered a new generation of chips that allow in-car entertainment equipment to operate without interruptions and distortions as the engine automatically turns off and is restarted to conserve energy. Introduced in November 2010, the first of these new chips is the TDA7850LV, a 4x50W audio power amplifier that is the very first start/stop-compatible IC of its kind in production.

"We are proud that STMicroelectronics's engineering prowess and the advancement the TDA7850LV audio power amplifier represents was recognized by Electronic Design and Technology Editor, Randy Frank, who selected this product for recognition," said Fabio Marchio, Automotive Product Group Vice-President and General Manager of ST's Automotive Infotainment Division.  "This emerging family of devices, beginning with the TDA7850LV, combines advanced start/stop capability with hi-fi audio quality and the outstanding ruggedness that have always distinguished ST's audio power ICs and ensured our strong market leadership."

In addition to its start/stop compatibility and high audio performance, the TDA7850LV delivers the advantages of ST's Flexiwatt power package, now the de-facto standard for car audio ICs. A variety of configurations are available, including vertically, horizontally and SMD mounted versions. The award winning product is highlighted in Electronic Design's December 9, 2010 issue, available through this link: http://electronicdesign.com/article/analog-and-mixed-signal/Innovations-Accelerate-Automotive-Change.aspx

About STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics is a global leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications with innovative semiconductor solutions. ST aims to be the undisputed leader in multimedia convergence and power applications leveraging its vast array of technologies, design expertise and combination of intellectual property portfolio, strategic partnerships and manufacturing strength. In 2009, the Company's net revenues were $8.51 billion. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com. 

SOURCE STMicroelectronics