Chips to comply with RoHS directive

Oxford Semiconductor has announced it is to offer RoHS compliant versions of its standard products from January 1st 2005. Part referenced with a 'G' ('Green') suffix, the chips will be fully compliant with the RoHS Directive (2002/95/EC), and most will also meet the additional requirements of the Sony Technical Standard (SS-00259).

Established by the EU Parliament in December 2002, RoHS - Reduction on Hazardous Substances - requires manufacturers to take responsibility for recycling end-of-life products. The legislation effectively bans lead and other hazardous substances from electrical and electronics equipment sold in Europe from 1st July 2006.

Andy Thorne, Marketing Communications Manager at Oxford Semiconductor commented, "Oxford Semiconductor has the size, focus and flexibility to make implementation of environmentally friendly policies that much easier. Our customers in Asia, Europe and the USA have also been long term advocates of lead-free products."