Allegro MicroSystems, LLC Announces Two-wire Hall-effect Switch ICs with Advanced Diagnostics

SAFE, SIMPLE, AND RUGGED

Allegro MicroSystems, LLC announces the release of a new family of two-wire vertical Hall-effect switch ICs with advanced diagnostics. Allegro’s A1130, A1131, and A1132 have been developed in accordance with ISO 26262:2011 as hardware safety elements out of context with ASIL-B capability (pending assessment) for use in automotive safety-related systems when integrated and used in the manner prescribed in the applicable safety manual and datasheet.  These devices have integrated continuous diagnostic features and a safe output state that supports this functional safety level. These devices feature a two-wire current output interface that facilitates open/short diagnosis along with signal path verification from input to output. These sensor ICs are ideal for safety-critical automotive applications, and can assist a system in meeting the most stringent safety requirements.

This family of devices is especially suited for systems requiring high levels of functional safety such as active and passive occupant restraint systems; electronic power steering systems; advanced driver assistance systems; electronic braking; transmission and clutch systems. The high level of integrated diagnostic capability can help to simplify the safety systems design resulting in lower parts count and lower overall assembly costs.

These unipolar Hall-effect switch ICs is sensitive to magnetic fields that are parallel to the surface of the package. These south pole sensitive switches are temperature stable and include automotive-grade rugged features such as reverse-battery protection, overvoltage protection, and load dump capability. Each device includes on a single silicon chip: a voltage regulator, diagnostic circuitry, a Hall-voltage generator, a small-signal amplifier, chopper stabilization, a Schmitt trigger, and an NMOS current output. The on-board regulator permits operation with supply voltages down to 3 V.

The A1130, A1131, and A1132 are available in the LH package and sense magnetic fields perpendicular to the non-leaded side of the package closest to pin 1. The A1130 is additionally offered in the UA package, which offers magnetic field sensing either perpendicular to the top of the package (-Y option), or sensing perpendicular to the right side of the package closest to pin 3 (-X option).