Digital temperature sensor provide +/-1C accuracy between 130 to 160C for auto applications

The LM95172Q's high-temperature accuracy allows lower system guard bands. System engineers now can develop a reliable electronic control units (ECUs) that consistently run at higher temperatures, allowing for optimal oil viscosity, smaller system form factor, and lower weight—enabling increased fuel efficiency.

National says the sensor, a member of National's PowerWise® family, is the industry's first integrated 175C digital-output temperature sensor with a serial peripheral interface (SPI) and MICROWIRE® bus interface.

The LM95172Q is supplied in die form for mounting on hybrid circuit boards and offers temperature monitoring between -40 and 175C. The sensor features a 16-bit sigma-delta analog-to-digital converter (ADC), conversion rate of 35 ms, and resolution of 0.008 degrees C/LSB. The device also includes a temperature switch as well as self diagnosis to ensure safe, continuous operation.

Pricing for the sensor is $1.25 each in 1,000-unit quantities. The device is sampling now with production volumes available in the fourth quarter of 2008. For more information, or to order samples and an evaluation board, visit http://www.national.com/pf/LM/LM95172Q.html.