When PenMount began designing projected capacitive (PCI or PCAP) touch control boards, we chose to utilized microcontrollers from Microchip Technology for their specifications, quality, flexibility, and reliability. Of course, these are also the qualities PenMount tries to instill in all of our own products. Over the years, we have built a steadfast and successful relationship with Microchip and both companies are deeply vested in each other’s continuing growth and advancement.

Atmel has long been considered a strong player in the semiconductor field and a respected competitor in the area of PCI touch controllers. Last year, consolidation in the semiconductor industry reached a fever pitch with deals totaling US$110 billion. As a global leader in microcontroller and touch technology solutions and due to industry trends, Atmel was a prime merger candidate. In January of this year, Microchip announced acquisition of Atmel in a deal worth US$3.56 billion. This transaction was completed in April after clearance by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and approval by Atmel shareholders.

PenMount has enjoyed a long and successful partnership with Microchip, using the company’s microcontrollers on our PCI touch control boards and developing PenMount firmware and utilities. This year, Microchip recognized PenMount as a Bronze Level Design Partner. After Microchip acquired Atmel, PenMount began working with Atmel controllers, initiating new product lines and designs, and preparing to introduce Atmel PCI controller products. We plan to provide PCI touch control boards with Atmel ICs to our customers in the near future. Atmel touch technology and know-how will allow the PenMount PCI touch product line to become more comprehensive.

This additional Atmel PCI controller product line will greatly complement PenMount’s current and upcoming Microchip based PCI touch solutions. Future editions of PenMount Bulletin will update the progress of our technical integration and increasing experience with Atmel technologies and products. The PenMount team is excited to be able to provide our customers with an even more powerful and reliable touch experience in the future. For more details, please contact your sales representative.

You are welcomed to download all of PenMount’s standard product data and drivers directly from our website at: //www.salt.com.tw and //www.penmount.com. If you have any suggestions or comments please send e-mail to: salt@salt.com.tw or PenMount@seed.net.tw.