September 27, 2012, Seoul — NXP Semiconductors (NASDAQ: NXPI) today launched the NCF2960, the world's smallest combo chip solution for automotive smart key systems equipped with anti-theft devices. This compact solution integrates a secure transponder, a micro RISC kernel, and a multi-channel radio transmitter into a single package. With this new addition to its automotive portfolio, NXP further strengthens its position as an industry-leading supplier of semiconductors for anti-theft devices and smart key systems.

The NCF2960 meets the strong demands of automotive OEMs seeking fashionable and unique smart key designs. The chip's package size has been reduced by 44% compared to the previous version. It can be manufactured in a small 24-pin QFN package and requires only 4mm x 4mm of board space, allowing smart key manufacturers to produce a wide variety of form factors and freely arrange command buttons.

One of the key features of the newly released chip is its RF multi-channel capability. The integrated transmitter can send signals via multiple frequency channels rather than a single frequency. Frequency hopping can maximize the reliability of the smart key against RF jamming.


Unlike other common products, NXP's new NCF2960 provides stable output to minimize the impact of various battery voltages and temperatures.

In addition, the NCF2960 reduces costs due to its small PCB footprint and allows for visual inspection of solder connections without the need for complex X-rays. Visual inspection is made possible with a 24-pin QFN package that includes a lubricated flank.

Drue Freeman, Vice President of Global Automotive Sales and Marketing at NXP Semiconductors, stated, “A smart key is the first device you interact with before getting into a car. For automotive OEMs, smart keys are a way to enhance the driving experience, elevate brand image, and differentiate themselves from competitors.” He added, “NXP, a leader in the automotive semiconductor industry, has launched the NCF2960, a second-generation single-chip combo solution that integrates anti-theft devices, remote keyless entry (RKE), and RF transmitters.” “The key consideration during the product design phase was to provide new value-enhancing features, such as RF output stabilization, frequency hopping, and various encryption options, in the smallest possible package without compromising performance,” they stated.

Key Features
• Single-chip security transponder and smart key solution equipped with an on-chip multi-channel UHF transmitter (310–447 MHz, optionally up to 950 MHz)
• Transponder emulation based on HT3, HT-AES, or HT-Pro2
• Operation of RISC Programmable Devices
• Computation unit supporting HT3 (96-bit) and AES (128-bit)
• 16 KB Flash for user applications
• 2 KB ultra-low power EEPROM for data storage
• 1 KB RAM
• Up to 8 command buttons can be added
• Current source option for direct LED drive
• Stable RF output
• Single lithium cell operation 2.1V~3.6V
• C compiler support for software development
• 24-pin small footprint HVQFN package (4x4mm)

Release date
Engineering samples of the NCF2960 are currently available.