Analog Mixed-Signal MCU fosters precision sensor measurements.
Press Release Summary:
Occupying as little as 5 x 5 mm board space, MAXQ7670A analog mixed-signal MCU SoC integrates all functions needed to accurately measure signals in microvolt range from multiple magnetic (magnetoresistive) sensors. On-board components include CAN 2.0B controller, programmable-gain differential amplifier, 12-bit ADC, 16-bit RISC MCU, and SPI interface. Designed to operate in harsh, space-constrained environments, product does not need external amplifier on each sensor input.
Original Press Release:
Lowest Cost System Solution for Precision Sensor Measurements in Automotive and Industrial Applications
Lowest cost system solution for precision sensor measurements in automotive and industrial applications
Maxim's latest MAXQ(R) microcontroller integrates a differential amplifier to eliminate the need for external amplifiers on each sensor input channel.
SUNNYVALE, CA--Maxim Integrated Products (NASDAQ: MXIM) extends its line of MAXQ mixed-signal microcontrollers with the MAXQ7670A, a complete system-on-chip (SoC), mixed-signal microcontroller that integrates all the functions needed to accurately measure small-amplitude differential analog input signals. The MAXQ7670A pushes mixed-signal performance of the previously introduced MAXQ7670 to the 12-bit level, enabling measurements in the microvolt range from various types of sensors, such as anisotropic magnetoresistive (AMR) sensors. AMR sensors are typically used for contactless sensing of linear or angular displacement in automotive or industrial applications.
The MAX7670A requires only 5mm x 5mm of board space, and offers on-chip programmable gain control on each input channel. This avoids the need for external amplification of low-amplitude signals, resulting in cost reduction and PCB area savings of up to 40%.
Designed to digitize and process signals in harsh, space-constrained environments, this SoC is ideal for automotive applications such as steering, braking, and throttle-position control, as well as industrial control applications such as valve positioning and shaft rotation. The on-chip RISC CPU and embedded CAN bus controller allow real-time data processing for smart sensor networks.
The MAXQ7670A features eight single-ended/four differential inputs, followed by a programmable-gain differential amplifier (1x or 16x) and 125ksps ADC with 12-bit resolution. It digitizes sensor outputs for very precise real-world measurements, monitors supply-rail voltage to respond to power-failure conditions, and integrates a watchdog timer to ensure reliable operation. Its digital interfaces consist of a CAN 2.0B controller, SPI(TM) interface, JTAG interface, and seven general-purpose I/Os. A general-purpose timer with capture, compare, and PWM capability is also provided.
The MAXQ7670A includes a 16-bit RISC MAXQ microcontroller core, which allows for single-cycle data fetch and execution at 16MIPS. Additionally, the device integrates 2KB of SRAM for data and 64KB of automotive-grade flash memory. In-system programming is supported for field upgrades from a built-in 8KB utility ROM. The user can prevent unauthorized access to flash memory through a hardware password.
The MAXQ7670A is available in a space-saving, 5mm x 5mm, 40-pin TQFN package, and is fully specified over the -40 degrees Celsius to +125 degrees Celsius automotive temperature range. Prices start at $3.58 (1000-up, FOB USA). An evaluation kit is available to speed designs. This kit includes an evaluation board and a PC-based integrated development environment (IDE). The IDE provides a debugger, assembler/linker, time-limited version of the IAR C compiler, and simulator. Additionally, Maxim's website offers many application notes and software examples to use with the MAXQ family of products (www.maxim-ic.com/MAXQ).
Maxim Integrated Products is a publicly traded company that designs, manufactures, and sells high-performance semiconductor products. The Company was founded over 25 years ago with the mission to deliver innovative analog and mixed-signal engineering solutions that add value to its customers' products. To date, it has developed over 6400 products serving the industrial, communications, consumer, and computing markets.
Maxim reported revenue of approximately $2.0 billion for fiscal 2010. A Fortune 1000 company, Maxim is included in the Nasdaq 100, the Russell 1000, and the MSCI USA indices. For more information, go to www.maxim-ic.com.
MAXQ is a registered trademark of Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
SPI is a trademark of Motorola, Inc.
