The ISL29501 TOF device offers one-of-a-kind functionality, including ultra-small size, low power consumption, and superior ideal performance for connected devices that make up the Internet of Things (IoT), as well as consumer mobile devices and emerging commercial drone markets.
The ISL29501 overcomes the shortcomings of traditional amplitude-based proximity sensors and other Time-of-Flight (ToF) solutions that perform poorly in light conditions above 2,000 lux or cannot provide distance information unless the object is perpendicular to the sensor. Alternative solutions are too expensive, bulky, or power-hungry for use in small form factor and battery-powered applications. Based on Intersil's proprietary technology, the ISL29501 sensor offers a small footprint solution with long-range accuracy of up to two meters in both dark and bright ambient light conditions. Unlike competing solutions, the ISL29501 allows customers to select their preferred emitter and photodiode and configure a customized, low-power ToF sensing system for their application. To make system design easy for customers, Intersil offers a reference design with the ISL29501 emitter and photodiode, along with graphical user interface (GUI) software and user guide.
The ISL29501 leverages Intersil's energy management expertise to conserve power and extend battery life through a number of innovations. The on-chip DAC emitter with programmable current up to 255mA allows system designers to select the desired current level to drive the external infrared (IR) LED or laser. This feature enables optimization of distance measurement, object detection, and power consumption. The device's single-shot mode saves energy by allowing designers to define the sampling period for initial object detection and approximate distance, while continuous mode provides more accurate distance measurement. The ISL29501 also performs system calibration to accommodate variations in the performance of external components due to temperature and ambient light conditions.
Features and Specifications
• On-chip DSP calculates Time-of-Flight (ToF) for accurate proximity detection and distance measurement up to two meters
• 4.5 MHz modulation frequency avoids interference with other consumer products such as IR TV remote controls operating at 40 kHz
• On-chip DAC emitter with programmable current up to 255 mA allows designers to choose the desired current level to optimize distance measurement and power consumption
• Operates in single-shot mode for initial object detection and approximate distance measurement, while continuous mode improves distance accuracy
• Active ambient light rejection chip minimizes or eliminates the influence of ambient light during distance measurement
• Programmable distance zones: allows the user to define three ToF distance zones to determine interrupt alerts
• Interrupt controller generates interrupt alerts using distance measurements and user-defined thresholds
• Automatic gain control sets optimal analog signal levels for better SNR response
• Supply voltage range of 2.7 V to 3.3 V
• Interface I2C supports 1.8V and 3.3V buses
The ISL29501 can be combined with the ISL9120 buck-boost regulator to further reduce energy consumption and extend battery life in consumer and home automation applications.
Pricing and Availability:
The ISL29501 signal processor IC is now available in a low-profile 4 mm x 5 mm TQFN 24-lead package and is priced at $4.87 USD for orders of thousands. The ISL29501-ST-EV1Z reference design board is fully characterized and available now for $250 USD. Customers can use it with Intersil's ToF GUI software and user guide to design their system with minimal effort.
