Designed for cost-sensitive automotive applications such as powertrain actuators, pedal position sensors, fuel gauges, and transmission systems, though also suitable for industrial implementations, these integrated circuits offer superior capabilities in terms of functional safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) characteristics. They also support high-temperature operation.
In addition to their magnetic sensing element, the new position-sensing ICs incorporate digital signal processing and data conversion, as well as a programmable output stage driver. They can be configured to accurately determine rotary or linear position. The MLX90421 provides a ratiometric or pulse-width modulated (PWM) analog output, while the MLX90422 offers a SENT (Single Edge Nibble Transmission) output compliant with SAE J2716.
Its wide ambient temperature range, from -40°C to 160°C, means it can be used in vehicles that lack the heat dissipation typically found in engine compartments, such as hybrid and fully electric vehicles. The sensor IC fully complies with the functional safety guidelines of ISO 26262, using the Safety Out of Context (SEooC) approach, and is ASIL-B compliant. To ensure EMC testing is successful the first time, the new ICs offer performance similar to Melexis' established MLX9037x product family. Therefore, only one test cycle is required, meaning design work can be completed more quickly and associated engineering costs are kept to a minimum. Improved absolute maximum values (AMRs), such as -18V/34V output protection and -18V/37V power supply protection, reduce the risk of electrical overload.
The MLX90421 and MLX90422 can be supplied in a single-die SOIC-8 package or a PCB-less DMP-4 package. These options are backward compatible with the company's previous devices, making them direct replacements. A fully redundant dual-die TSSOP-16 package is also available for safety-critical situations requiring system redundancy. Additional package options will be announced in October 2021.
