Lowest-Cost, Complete System Solution for Differential Sensors in Automotive Body-Electronics Applications
Note to Editor:
- The MAXQ7670 is a system-on-chip (SoC), high-sensitivity mixed-signal microcontroller based on Maxim's innovative MAXQ architecture.
- With its on-chip CAN 2.0B controller, programmable-gain differential amplifier, 16-bit RISC microcontroller, and SPI™ interface, the MAXQ7670 provides the lowest-cost integrated system solution for processing small-amplitude differential analog input signals.
- Occupying as little as 5mm x 5mm of board space, the MAXQ7670 integrates all the functions needed to accurately measure signals in the microvolt range from multiple magnetic (magnetoresistive) sensors. Unlike other solutions, the MAXQ7670 needs no external PGA on each sensor input channel, thereby reducing system cost and size.
- Designed to operate in harsh, space-constrained environments, the MAXQ7670 is ideal for automotive electronic steering/stability control applications, and industrial applications requiring position/displacement measurement.
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SUNNYVALE, CA—April 6, 2009—Maxim Integrated Products (NASDAQ: MXIM) introduces the newest member of its MAXQ® RISC microcontroller product line: the MAXQ7670 system-on-chip (SoC), mixed-signal microcontroller for sensor applications. A highly sensitive, cost-effective automotive microcontroller for low-amplitude signals, the MAXQ7670 delivers the lowest-cost, most complete system solution for measuring signals in the microvolt range from sensors with differential outputs, such as anisotropic magnetoresistive (AMR) sensors. AMR sensors are typically used for contactless sensing of linear or angular displacement in automotive or industrial applications.
The MAXQ7670 requires only 5mm x 5mm of board space, yet integrates all of the functions needed to accurately measure the low-amplitude signals from multiple AMR sensors without any external amplification. This results in lower system cost (reduced BOM and smaller PCB area). The MAXQ7670 calculates the angle of displacement in real time and output the results on a CAN network.
Designed to digitize and process signals in harsh, space-constrained environments, this SoC is ideal for automotive applications such as steering, braking, and throttle position control, as well as industrial control applications including valve positioning and shaft rotation. The flexible, modular architecture used in this microcontroller ensures fast development of application-specific end products.
The MAXQ7670 features eight single-ended/four differential inputs, followed by a programmable-gain differential amplifier (1x or 16x) and 250ksps ADC with 10-bit resolution. It digitizes sensor outputs for very precise real-world measurements, monitors supply-rail voltage to respond to power failure conditions, and integrates a watchdog timer to ensure reliable operation. Its digital interfaces consist of a CAN 2.0B controller, SPI™, JTAG, and seven general-purpose I/Os. A general-purpose timer with capture, compare, and PWM capability is also provided.
The MAXQ7670 includes a 16-bit RISC MAXQ microcontroller core, which is enhanced by sixteen 16-bit registers. The device can process digitized data and execute user applications at up to 16MIPS. Additionally, the MAXQ7670 integrates 2KB of SRAM for data and 64KB of automotive-grade flash memory.
The MAXQ7670 is available in a space-saving, 5mm x 5mm, 40-pin TQFN package, and is fully specified over the -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range. Prices start at $3.97 (1000-up, FOB USA). Additionally, Maxim's website offers many application notes and software examples to use with the MAXQ family of products (www.maxim-ic.com/MAXQ).
Maxim Integrated Products is a publicly traded company that designs, manufactures, and sells high-performance semiconductor products. The Company reported revenue in excess of $2 billion for fiscal 2008. Maxim was founded over 25 years ago with the mission to deliver innovative analog and mixed-signal engineering solutions that add value to its customers' products. To date, it has developed over 5900 products serving the industrial, communications, consumer, and computing markets. For more information, go to www.maxim-ic.com.
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