The MLX90637 brings the automotive industry the advantages of automated SMD assembly and high-precision, non-contact temperature sensing. It is designed for critical temperature monitoring applications in electric vehicles (EVs), such as inverters, motors, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Speed ​​and accuracy of readings are essential for vehicle operation. While negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistors have traditionally served these systems, the MLX90637 SMD FIR offers several advantages.
With the MLX90637, automakers can now benefit from simplified production. The sensor's SMD package enables automated PCB mounting, eliminating the manual labor associated with NTC solutions. In EVs, its intrinsic galvanic isolation helps improve safety by separating high- and low-voltage circuits, and its inherent electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) eliminates the typical noise problems associated with NTC wires. The sensor's longevity in a demanding automotive environment is enhanced by its wide operating temperature range, from -40°C to 125°C.
In applications such as inverter busbar monitoring, where temperature control is critical, the MLX90637's 50° field of view, superior 0.02°C resolution, and fast response time ensure that vehicles can increase their performance without risk of damage. In addition to the performance advantage, the FIR MLX90637, with its SMD design, offers cost benefits over NTC thermistors, thanks to significant time savings during assembly and further component savings compared to TO-CAN alternatives. System integration is further simplified with a 3.3V power supply, factory calibration (including post-calibration), and an I2C interface for communication with a host MCU, including a software-definable I2C address via an external pin, as well as a compact 3 x 3 mm² package.
“The introduction of the MLX90637 marks another world first for the Melexis temperature sensor range, as it is the first FIR SMD temperature sensor approved for automotive use,” said Joris Roels, Marketing Manager at Melexis. He added, “By offering a sensor that improves system reliability, increases safety, and streamlines assembly, Melexis is helping automakers deliver electric vehicles that meet the highest standards of performance and safety.”

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