ELMOS Semiconductor AG announced that the introduction of a HALIOS(R)-IC in a Stud Finder marks a further milestone for this Elmos-chip family. For the first time an IC using the Elmos technology HALIOS(R) is showing its capabilities not only in an optical sensor solution but also in a capacitive application. Based on the unique Elmos technology the new Zircon(R) MultiScanner(TM) x85 OneStep(TM) achieves high-performance detection of nearly all relevant materials in walls, floors or ceilings. This is a proof for the precision, reliability and variety of the Elmos HALIOS(R) technology. The device integrates the Elmos-IC E909.05. Many optical applications, like rain/light sensor, Human Machine Interface solutions in the new VW Golf VII and GM Cadillac models or gesture switches in lamp applications, are already using HALIOS(R). First of its kind, the Zircon MultiScanner x85 uses the Elmos HALIOS(R) patented active and capacitive techniques during the calibration process to minimize detection mistakes and toggles between thermal, AC, and stud modes to additionally scan for live AC wiring and find wood and metal studs. With a simple push of a button, the user is able to accurately scan and digitally view the center of a target, up to two inches deep. By using the x85 prior to drilling, cutting, or fastening, tool users can avoid penetrating into hydronic radiant floor heating systems, saving thousands of dollars in damage, expensive repairs, and idle construction work time. The Zircon MultiScanner x85 will be available at many US building supply stores.

ELMOS Semiconductor AG announced high-efficiency step-down converters. With the E522.7x IC family, Elmos presents high-efficiency step-down converters consistently designed for low quiescent current draw and high efficiency. The integrated circuits consume only 8-A in sleep mode and 12-A in standby operation. The achievable efficiency rate exceeds 90%. Potential fields of use for the E522.7x product range are industrial applications in voltage supply systems. Due to the integrated power MOSFETs, the ICs require only a very limited number of external components. The PFM regulators operate at up to 1.33MHz and achieve outstanding response times, stability and high efficiency over the entire voltage and output current ranges. The input voltage range covers 4.5V up to 40V. The product family includes 9 components altogether and supports fixed voltages of 3.3V or rather 5V as well as variable output voltages ranging from 1.5V up to the input voltage at 100% duty cycle capability. Possible output currents reach 1A. The integrated circuits feature short-circuit, overtemperature and open-circuit protection. The E522.7x family comes in SOIC8 EP packages. The ambient temperature range allows up to 105-C.

ELMOS Semiconductor AG reported consolidated earnings results for the first quarter of 2013. For the quarter, the company reported sales of EUR 43.1 million compared to EUR 46.9 million a year ago. Operating loss was EUR 0.6 million compared to operating income of EUR 0.7 million a year ago. EBIT was EUR 0.3 million compared to EUR 1.0 million a year ago. Consolidated net income after non-controlling interests was EUR 0.4 million compared to EUR 0.6 million a year ago. Basic earnings per share were EUR 0.02 compared to EUR 0.03 a year ago. The operating cash flow climbed from EUR 0.5 million in the prior-year period to EUR 5.2 million. The adjusted free cash flow (cash flow from operating activities less capital expenditures for intangible assets and property, plant and equipment, less payments for investments, plus disposal of investments) also showed a positive performance, reaching EUR 3.0 million compared to free cash outflow of EUR 2.8 million a year ago. The company provided earnings guidance for the year 2013. For the year 2013, the company anticipates a sales increase in the mid single-digit percentage range based on essentially unchanged general economic conditions. The EBIT margin will be above the 2012 level (6.3%). The adjusted free cash flow is expected to be positive. Capital expenditures are budgeted to amount to no more than 15% of sales.