Magnetic sensor features discrete protection components integrated into IC package

Melexis' MLX90364 Triaxis® is a linear and angular position sensor, which eliminates the need for inclusion of a printed circuit board within sensing modules. The device is based on a dual-mold package construction, which integrates a 12-bit resolution position sensing die together with the decoupling capacitors necessary to meet automotive electro-static discharge (ESD) and electromagnetic compliance (EMC) requirements. Once encapsulated, this dual-mold package can be welded or soldered directly to a rugged connector or termination, and further potted or over-molded. The dual mold package eliminates the need for a conventional PCB arrangement. And dedicated "ears" allow greater accuracy levels to be realized when mounting.

Suitable for either linear or rotary position sensing applications, the sensor features programmable transfer functionality, selectable analog and pulse width modulation (PWM) output modes, open/short diagnostics, on-board diagnostics, under-voltage detection, and over-voltage protection. A SENT-SAE J2716 capable version is currently under development.

“The MLX90364 addresses the automotive industry’s demands for more electrical, mechanical, and environmental robustness,” says Vincent Hiligsmann, marketing manager for sensors at Melexis. “Combining the dual mold package with our latest generation of Triaxis® position sensor ICs, means that the vulnerability often associated with use of PCBs when they are exposed to high temperatures or high levels of vibration can be avoided. By using fewer components and lowering the number of solder-joints by more than a factor of three, the risk of failures is decreased greatly. PCB-less mounting allied to contact-less sensing offers a solution that is fully optimized for long term reliable performance."

The MLX90364 is qualified according to the AEC-Q100 and Q200 automotive standards. It has passed extreme robustness validation tests, such as long exposures to ambient temperatures up to 170C.

Melexis is already shipping the sensor to several global automotive Tier 1 suppliers and it is now available to the entire market.

For more information, go to this Melexis website: www.melexis.com/nopcb.

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