Interface IC Handles Multiple Sensors

Groomed for fusion sensing applications, the user-configurable SSP1401 sensor interface IC handles applications requiring single or multiple sensors of various types including resistive, capacitive, inductive, piezoelectric, and pulse-count. For example, the chip can directly interface to a dual-axis magneto-resistive magnetometer sensor to implement an electronic compass function, while at the same time providing altimeter information via a capacitive pressure sensor. It operates with a supply voltage from 1.6V to 3.6V while consuming less than 0.5 mA of operating current, less than 200 nA in sleep mode, and functions in temperatures from -40°C to +125°C. Six user-configurable drive channels can each deliver up to 60 mA for any given sensor and are compatible with most sensor element types including MEMS. Aside from the sensors, the SSP1401 requires three discreet passive components. Additionally, the device outputs sensor data using a SPI protocol. Available in bare die form or in a 5 mm x 5 mm, 28-pin MLF/QFN package, price is $2.24 each/1,000. For more details, call Eric Butler at SENSOR PLATFORMS INC., Santa Rosa, CA. (480) 777-1355.