Chopper-stabilised Hall-effect proximity sensor module

Sensor Review

ISSN: 0260-2288

Article publication date: 1 March 2001

59

Citation

(2001), "Chopper-stabilised Hall-effect proximity sensor module", Sensor Review, Vol. 21 No. 1. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2001.08721aaf.009

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2001, MCB UP Limited


Chopper-stabilised Hall-effect proximity sensor module

Chopper-stabilised Hall-effect proximity sensor module

The new ATS635LSB from Allegro MicroSystems (see Plate 8) is a Hall-effect based proximity sensor module that is ideally suited to automotive applications such as seat-position sensing.

The new device is based on an optimised combination of a Hall-effect integrated circuit and a magnet, and provides true "power on" tooth/valley recognition in gear-tooth sensing applications and proximity detection in other applications.

Each sensor subassembly consists of a high-temperature plastic shell that holds together a compound samarium-cobalt magnet and a single-element, chopper-stabilised Hall-effect IC that has been programmed to match the magnetic circuit, thereby optimising sensor performance.

Plate 8 The ATS635LSB sensor module from Allegro MicroSystems

The chopper-stabilised Hall-effect circuitry provides superior high-temperature performance and helps to eliminate inherent and environmental chip offsets. It results in an extremly stable quiescent Hall output voltage, provides immunity from mechanical stress, and offers precise recoverability after temperature cycling.

The ATS635LSB also provides on-chip transient protection. A zener clamp on the supply protects against overvoltage conditions on the supply line. The device includes short circuit protection on the output and reverse battery protection.

The sensor provides a "high" output in the presence of a ferrous object or gear tooth and a "low" output in its absence.

The device features an on-board voltage regulator, and is designed for operation from 4.25 to 26.5V DC.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. is a world leading semiconductor manufacturer in the field of mixed-signal integrated circuits, power ICs and Hall-effect sensors. The company employs over 2,000 people worldwide, and has a sales target of more than $220 million for the 2000 financial year. Its international headquarters are in Worcester, Massachusetts, USA, and it has design and manufacturing operations in Concord, New Hampshire, USA; Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, USA; Edinburgh, Scotland; and Manila, Philippines. The company has ISO 9001 accreditation.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. is a member of the Sanken Electric Group of companies, a major Japanese electronics manufacturer with annual sales in excess of $1.2 billion. In Europe, the Allegro MicroSystems sales and distribution operations handle both Allegro and Sanken semiconductor products.

For further infromation contact Allegro MicroSystems Europe Ltd, Balfour House, Churchfield Road, Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, KT12 2TD, UK. Tel: +44 (0)1932 253355; Fax: +44 (0)1932 246622; Web site: www.allegromicro.com

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