Sensor Signal Conditioning IC features integrated DSP.

Press Release Summary:




Developed for resistive bridge sensors, Model ZSSC3017 combines amplification, 16-bit analog-to-digital conversion, and 18-bit DSP for linearization and calibration functions. Analog front end offers multiple programming options, including on-chip temperature sensor and fully differential signal paths. Using second-order charge-balancing ADC, IC topology delivers less than ±0.5% FSO accuracy error over full temperature range of -40 to +85°C, making it suited for altimeter/barometer systems.



Original Press Release:



ZMDI Introduces 16-bit Sensor Signal Conditioner with Integrated DSP for High Accuracy Measurements in Consumer, Industrial and White Good Applications



A programmable analog front end enables the new ZSSC3017 to deliver the highest possible precision and accuracy.

Dresden, Germany, - ZMD AG, a global supplier of analog and mixedsignal solutions for automotive, industrial, and medical applications, today introduced a class-leading 16-bit sensor signal conditioning IC (SSC). Developed for resistive bridge sensors, the ZSSC3017 combines high accuracy amplification, 16-bit precision analog-to-digital conversion, and an 18-bit DSP for linearization and calibration functions. The highly integrated CMOS device offers performance accurate enough for altimeter/barometer systems, data merging with GPS receivers, strain gauges, medical gas and infusion pumps, and robotics.

The conversion characteristics of resistive sensor bridges are generally non-linear and temperature-dependent. Sophisticated signal processing for amplification, linearization and compensation of the effects of the temperature is required. To deliver the highest possible accuracy, the ZSSC3017 features an analog front end with multiple flexible programming options, including an on-chip temperature sensor and fully differential signal paths. The IC topology uses a second-order charge-balancing ADC leading to less than ±0.5% (FSO) accuracy error over the full industrial temperature range of -40 to +85°C.

A fully programmable differential gain amplifier optimally works with sensor signal ranges from 12.5-160mV/V. The device can be adapted to different sensor signal range centres and features an internal auto-compensated temperature sensor. An onchip 18-bit DSP implements the calibration math and sophisticated second-order error correction for temperature offset, drift, and non-linearity. All calibration data is stored in on-chip EEPROM, and the system can be re-calibrated in the field. Performing all of the error correction in the ZSSC3017 allows the device to deliver a fully-corrected digital output signal, which simplifies designing the rest of the system and minimizes the bill of materials as well as system power consumption.

ZMDI's unique one-shot calibration concept minimizes calibration costs. Calibration is accomplished easily with a PC-based program using a two-wire, I2C-based interface, and can be done at high speed in production. No external trimming components are required, which reduces the bill of materials and manufacturing costs. ZMDI's development kit makes it simple to implement calibration routines.

"We developed the ZSSC3017 based on our proven 12 and 14 bit sensor signal conditioners to enable our customers to increase the resolution and accuracy of their products," says Dr. Marko Mailand, Project Manager at ZMDI. "Intelligent power management capabilities by respective operation modes support the design of energy efficient applications."

The 16-bit precision and on-chip DSP-based linearization make the ZSSC3017 accurate enough for demanding applications such as portable altimeter and barometer systems and weather forecasting equipment. In heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, its precision permits accurate sensing of airflow within buildings, allowing better and more energy-efficient building heating and cooling. New types of consumer items, such as motion sensing sport equipment or multi-function watches also benefit from the ZSSC3017's precision. In medical products, medical gas control, medical infusion pumps, ambulatory non-invasive pump systems, and occlusion detection systems all require this level of precision.

The ZSSC3017 operates on supply voltages from 2.7 to 5.5 volts and over a temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. Accuracy is ±0.50% FSO over the full temperature range. Noise performance of far less than 1.5µV (rms, input-referred) is possible. Power consumption during sleep mode is below 2 µA at 25°C. The layout of the ZSSC3017 is customized for die bonding with a sensor.

The ZSSC3017 is available as die for wafer bonding or in a TSSOP14 package. Packaged parts are priced at 1.13 Euro / 1.59 US$ in volumes of 10k. Samples and wafer material are available now.

About ZMDI:

Founded in 1961, Zentrum Mikroelektronik Dresden AG is a leading supplier of on-time, innovative, robust, high precision, and cost-effective analog mixed-signal silicon solutions for energy efficiency in automotive, mobile medical appliances, industrial automation and consumer devices. ZMDI specializes in the design and marketing of high temperature, high voltage and ultra low power application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and application-specific standard products (ASSPs). Its advanced circuit-design expertise allows it to offer ICs with operating temperatures as high as +160°C, and voltages from 0.85 V to 40 V. Headquartered in Dresden, Germany, ZMDI has 280 employees worldwide and serves customers from the company's offices in Dresden, Stuttgart, Germany; Milan, Italy; Pocatello, ID, Melville, NY; USA, Tokyo, Japan and Taipei, Taiwan. ZMDI has design centres in Dresden, Stuttgart, Munich, Germany; Varna, Bulgaria and Madison, Wisconsin, USA.

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