New High-Precision Resistor Arrays Provide Exceptionally Low Combined Relative Error of Less Than 0.03%, Flexible Electrical Specifications, and Excellent Stability

MALVERN, PENNSYLVANIA — April 8, 2004 — Vishay Intertechnology, Inc. (NYSE: VSH) today announced the release of the PRA 100, PRA 135, and PRA 182 high-precision resistor arrays, which provide an exceptionally low combined relative error of less than 0.03% in sets of up to eight resistors of varying ohmic values.

For applications requiring precision sets of resistor elements, these unique resistor arrays may be used to replace more expensive matched resistors without compromising precision or reliability. An ultra-stable passivated nichrome resistive layer, high-quality contacts between the resistive and conductive layers, and a proprietary patterning and laser trimming technique eliminate the need for digital drift compensation, which in turn simplifies design and enables the use of a smaller footprint.

In addition to outstanding stability, the new Vishay Thin Film PRA arrays provide a tight TCR of 10 ppm/°C, TCR tracking of 1 ppm/°C, and a ratio tolerance as tight as 0.01%. The PRA 100 is specified for a resistance range of 100 Ω to 200 KΩ, the PRA 135 for a range of 100 Ω to 300 KΩ, and the PRA 182 for 100 Ω to 1 MΩ. Power ratings for the PRA 100, PRA 135, and PRA 182 are 100 mW per resistor at +70 °C, with limiting voltages of 35 V, 75 V, and 100 V respectively. The devices offer very low noise of ≤ -35 dB and a low voltage coefficient of ≤ 0.01 ppm/V.

The three arrays released today are designed for use in instrumentation, calibration, and data conversion systems. The new PRA devices are available in 1 mm, 1.35 mm, and 1.82 mm pitches, with widths of 1.6 mm, 1.85 mm, and 3 mm, and a height profile of 0.38 mm. Each array is available with pre-tinned over a nickel barrier. Resistance values may be specified differently on a given network (R max./R min. up to 300) with no tooling charge. Very short delivery times are available even for special orders.

Samples of the new high-precision resistor arrays are available now, with lead times of 6 to 10 weeks for production quantities.

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc., a Fortune 1,000 Company listed on the NYSE (VSH), is one of the world's largest manufacturers of discrete semiconductors (diodes, rectifiers, transistors, and optoelectronics and selected ICs) and passive electronic components (resistors, capacitors, inductors, sensors, and transducers). These components are used in virtually all types of electronic devices and equipment, in the industrial, computing, automotive, consumer, telecommunications, military, aerospace, and medical markets. Its product innovations, successful acquisition strategy, and ability to provide "one-stop shop" service have made Vishay a global industry leader. Vishay can be found on the Internet at http://www.vishay.com.