Automotive Hall-effect switches with self-diagnostics offer high sensitivity

Diodes Inc. has released a family of automotive-compliant, two-wire unipolar (AH323xQ/4xQ) and latch (AH327xQ/8xQ) switch ICs. These Hall-effect switches provide high sensitivity and high stability over wide operating voltage and temperature ranges.

The new Hall-effect switches are designed for automotive proximity- and position-sensing applications, including seatbelt buckle, power window, gear selector and seat position. The adoption of two-wire hall switches reduces the number of wires required in the harness, which reduces system complexity and cost while improving robustness to electrical noise, said the company.

The AEC-Q100 qualified AH324xQ and AH328xQ have integrated self-diagnostics which continually monitor the main device blocks, supply voltage, and temperature, along with a third output state that warns of an abnormal condition. These devices are ISO 26262 ASIL-B ready, with safety analysis conducted in accordance with the ISO 26262 standard.

The devices use an advanced chopper stabilized design that provides high stability of the magnetic operating and release points (BOP/BRP) over the 2.7-V to 27-V operating voltage and -40˚C to 150˚C temperature ranges. Combined with a high electrostatic discharge (ESD) rating of 8 kV, built-in reverse blocking diode, and supply pin Zener clamp, the AH32xxQ series meets the demanding requirements of automotive proximity/position-sensing applications.

All AH32xxQ devices are supplied in a SC59 package. Unit pricing starts at $0.40 for the AH324xQ and AH328xQ in quantities of 3,000, and starts at $0.36 for the AH323xQ and AH327xQ devices in quantities of 3,000.

Other Diodes automotive-compliant devices introduced this year include the  PT7C4363BQ  and PT7C4563BQ (with an adjustable timer) RTCs. These devices are designed for automotive applications, such as infotainment systems, dashboard displays, and telematics boxes (T-Box).The PT7C4363BQ and PT7C4563BQ are qualified to AEC-Q100 Grade 1, covering the temperature range of –40°C to 125°C.