Ezairo 7150 SL DSP-based System-on-Chip and Smart Passive Sensor

ON Semiconductor was selected as a winner in two categories at the CES 2017 Innovation Awards by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA™).

At the annual CES unveiling in New York hosted by the CTA, ON Semiconductor’s Ezairo 7150 SL audio processing hybrid module was officially named in the ‘Technology for a Better World’ category, and its Smart Passive Sensor (SPS) solution in the ‘Embedded Technology’ category. Having received high scores in all evaluation categories, the Ezairo 7150 SL and SPS were named to the CTA’s list of ‘Small but Exclusive Products.’

The innovations in the two award-winning audio processing hybrid modules, which once again highlight ON Semiconductor's broad and diverse engineering expertise, focus on improving the lives of hearing aid wearers through wireless technology, while the smart passive sensor addresses wireless sensor networking for the implementation of the Internet of Things.

The Ezairo 7150 SL is a compact, open-programmable digital signal processing (DSP)-based hybrid device that enables wireless connectivity for hearing aids and cochlear implants. Integrating audio DSP EEPROM memory and a wireless IC into a single small package, this hybrid module allows hearing aid manufacturers to sophisticatedly integrate advanced wireless capabilities into their designs without compromising the overall system size.

Accordingly, hearing aid wearers can conveniently adjust hearing aid functions (volume levels, program changes, etc.) via a smartphone using a low-power Bluetooth (BLE) connection. The Ezairo 7150 SL, utilizing a proprietary 2.4 GHz protocol, also enables wearers to stream audio from any media source (e.g., a TV or music system) using a remote assistive device. This feature makes the device more convenient for users and significantly improves the wearer's quality of life.

The SPS1M and SPS2T smart passive sensors achieve power, cost, and space efficiency at each sensing node without requiring a microcontroller or battery. These ultra-thin devices automatically detect key parameters (temperature, humidity, pressure, and proximity) in a high-energy-efficiency mode that allows for the necessary power to be satisfied through energy harvesting capabilities. Additionally, they provide battery-free wireless networking that does not require regular maintenance, thereby reducing operating costs.

Bob Klosterboer, Senior Vice President and Director of ON Semiconductor’s Analog Solutions Group, stated, “The upcoming CES exhibition in Las Vegas is regarded as a venue showcasing the present and future of next-generation electronics,” adding, “It is undoubtedly a great honor that two of our products have been selected as award winners, and this is a prime example of the success of ON Semiconductor’s continued investment in providing excellent solutions for a connected world, backed by our capable technical talent.”