The growing demand for smart devices that are battery-powered and have the longest possible lifespan presents a challenge for IoT. Therefore, the need for reliable and accurate ultra-low-power components is paramount for the continued development of embedded and connected devices.
Melexis' MLX92216 and MLX92217 microwatt switches address this requirement head-on. These 3-wire monolithic magnetic switches offer industry-leading accuracy, consistency, and reliability throughout the application's lifetime. Available in single-pole, omni-pole, and latching variants, they are suitable for applications such as lid open/close detection, wearables, industrial machinery, household appliances, tablet housings, valves, energy and flow meters, and can also serve as a replacement for traditional proximity and reed switches.
The MLX92216 and MLX92217 feature a state-of-the-art power design with integrated logic for automatic sleep/wake sequencing, enabling an average current draw of 0.9 μA without any user intervention (depending on the model variant). Additionally, the MLX92217 has an "Enable" pin that allows users to activate or deactivate the automatic sleep logic, reducing the standby current draw to 200 nA while remaining ready to be woken by the system. Combined with an industry-leading min/max tolerance (<50%), these devices provide stable power consumption and longevity (i.e., peak current draws below 1.5 μA).
The MLX92216 and MLX92217 offer a wide selection of magnetic thresholds and options such as refresh rates and operating voltage range (from 1.6 V to 5.5 V). These switching integrated circuits are available in two different small packages: UTDFN-4L and TSOT-3L. The devices are suitable for ambient temperatures from -40°C to 85°C.
"With the MLX92216 and MLX92217, we have created a 1 microwatt switch that is more reliable than any currently on the market," says Minko Daskalov, Product Manager for Latch & Switch at Melexis. "It's the ideal switching solution for Industry 4.0 applications."
