San Jose, California, January 21, 2013 — Maxim Integrated Products (NASDAQ: MXIM) announced the launch of MAX3601, a highly integrated 8-bit RGB laser driver for use in automotive pico laser projectors. Compared to conventional technology, the MAX3601 enables size reduction, achieves superior brightness, reduces solution costs, and allows automotive implementation of sharper image head-up displays (HUD).

This driver IC drives three RGB lasers to deliver superior brightness at low power. These high-intensity lasers project brighter and clearer images to the HUD, enabling drivers to conveniently receive information and improve safety. Additionally, high levels of integration help conserve battery life, reduce heat generation, and minimize module size.

Key Product Features
• Cost reduction: Minimal PCB area through high functional integration. Consolidates three discrete current output laser drivers into a single laser driver
• Low power: Achieves maximum optical output with superior power efficiency at 80mW bias current
• Compact size and ease of design/manufacturing: No additional optical components needed through integration of three lasers
• High efficiency: Extends battery life, reduces heat generation, and minimizes heat sink requirements with total module power under 1W

Industry Assessments
• Mike Roberts, Managing Director at Maxim Integrated, stated, "The MAX3601 laser driver is a clean, conscious, and highly connected product. It is clean in terms of environmental friendliness, conscious in terms of safety, and highly connected in infotainment. This new laser-based technology from Maxim can lower power consumption in safety and infotainment systems while providing drivers with warnings through brighter and clearer images."
• Richard Robinson, Director of Automotive Market Research at Strategy Analytics, stated, "The most recent trend in automotive displays is the demand for high resolution. To enhance safety and driver assistance, head-up displays must be capable of providing increasingly sharper images."

Availability and Pricing
• Available in 3mm x 3.5mm 42-bump WLP and 5mm x 5mm 40-pin TQFN packages
• TQFN package operates in the temperature range of -40C to +105C