Temperature sensors monitor up to five channels

Microchip Technology Inc. has launched the MCP998x family, featuring 10 automotive-qualified remote temperature sensors. Representing one of the largest portfolios of automotive-grade multi-channel temperature sensors in the industry, the family delivers 1°C accuracy over a wide operational temperature range.

(Source: Microchip Technology Inc.)

Given the importance of thermal management in automotive design, there has been a lack of AEC-Q 100 automotive-qualified multi-channel remote temperature sensors, especially those that can be used at the high end of the traditional temperature range where competitors are often challenged. These sensors support vehicle functions such as HID lamps, advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS), automotive servers, video processing, infotainment systems, engine control, telematics and body electronics including seat control, lighting systems, mirror control and power windows.

Key features include up to five channels of monitoring, several alert and shutdown options for security and support for systems supervising more than one thermal element. The sensors provide a 2.5°C accuracy up to 125°C and integrate resistance error correction and beta compensation for improved accuracy.

Monitoring temperatures at multiple locations with a single, integrated temperature sensor also reduces board complexity, size, design complexity and bill of materials, Microchip said. Five of the family’s sensors have shutdown temperature setpoints that are designed not to be maliciously disabled or overwritten by software, the company added.

The MCP998x multi-channel remote temperature sensors are available now, starting at $0.63 each in quantities of 10,000. For ease of design and development, the MCP998x family is supported by the EV23P16A evaluation board.