Quantum adds IP licensing option for patented charge-transfer sensing ICs

Quantum Research develops and markets a variety of ICs for touch sensing. The devices can be used to implement single touch keys, matrix keyboards, sliders, touch wheels and touch screens. All are based on the company's patented charge-transfer sensing technology. Over 10 million devices will be sold this year into applications ranging from domestic ovens to mobile phones and MP3 players. The devices do not suffer the limitations of conventional touch sensors and feature self-calibration on power-up, automatic drift compensation, and the use of spread-spectrum signal acquisition to ensure high noise immunity and low RF emissions.

The ICs all offer low power operating modes, making them suitable for hand-held devices. Quantum Research's sensing technology is well proven, robust and easily implemented on general-purpose silicon. Microcontroller manufacturers can use it to strengthen their product portfolio by adding applications to generic platforms.

"The decision to introduce IP licensing is complementary to selling ICs.", said van der Linde. "Sophisticated OEMs, particularly in the mobile phone and smart phone arena want to both reduce the component count in their products and be supplier independent. Through the licensing model these OEMs can choose their silicon vendor, and implement second sourcing strategies," he added.
van der Linde (45) has over 20 years' experience in international business. He joins Quantum Research from NXT plc, a Huntingdon (UK) based IP licensing company working in audio technology and touch sensors for mobile handsets, where he was director of business development for embedded systems and technologies. Prior to NXT he spent 15+ years at Philips Electronics where he held a variety of senior marketing and business development jobs. He speaks English, German, French and Dutch and has a degree in marketing and an MBA from Newport University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.