Hall-effect linear sensors are user programmable

Programmable Hall-effect linear sensors can be optimised to reduce inaccuracies caused by manufacturing tolerances, and simplifies the assembly process.

Allegro MicroSystems Europe has introduced its A1380 family of programmable Hall-effect linear sensors.

They are available in miniature package options: TO-92 (three-lead, single in-line package) or SOT-23W (three-lead, surface mount).

The A1380 devices offer accuracy and flexibility of fully programmable linear devices in a small package at low cost.

The flexibility and accuracy of the new sensors is accomplished in two ways, as follows.

* The one-time programmable, read-only memory (OTP-ROM) contained in these analogue sensors allows users to optimise the device in a finished sensor assembly.

This optimisation serves to reduce inaccuracies caused by manufacturing tolerances, and simplifies the assembly process.

* The patented dynamic offset cancellation provides extremely low offset and minimal temperature drift.

Through a series of voltage pulses on the output of either of the three-lead miniature packages, the user is able to carry out fine adjustment of the sensitivity of these devices around one of four predetermined nominal values (2.5 mV/G, 3.1 mV/G, 5.0 mV/G and 7.0 mV/G).

Even greater flexibility can be achieved by adjusting the quiescent output voltage (output without the presence of a magnetic field) and the sensitivity temperature coefficient, as well as setting the output polarity for each device.

The temperature coefficient of these devices is designed to compensate for temperature coefficients of typical samarium cobalt (SmCo) magnets.

The A1380 Series will operate over a wide ambient temperature range from -40 deg C to +150 deg C, and are ideally suited for use in automotive and industrial applications.

* About Allegro MicroSystems - Allegro MicroSystems Incorporated is a global leader in the development, manufacture and marketing of high-performance power integrated circuits and integrated Hall-effect magnetic sensors.

Allegro's innovative, system-level solutions serve high-growth applications within the automotive, computer/office automation, industrial, consumer and communications markets, while our leading-edge product and processes reinforce our expertise in motor driver and power management technology.

In addition, we also hold leading positions within printer, scanner, copier and portable device (e.g cellular phones) applications.

With more than 2,400 employees, Allegro is headquartered in Worcester, Massachusetts, USA.

* About Allegro MicroSystems Europe - Allegro MicroSystems Europe, headquartered in Walton-on-Thames, United Kingdom, is the European sales and marketing operation, and operates a network of representatives and distributors throughout Europe.

Allegro also has an engineering design centre in Edinburgh in Scotland and an application centre in Annecy in France.

Back to top