LIN slave MLX80103 enables easy LIN connection of switch modules

Melexis extends its family of smart LIN slave IC's with a reconfigurable LIN switch slave. MLX80103 can be used to interface with any door, roof, seat, steering wheel, dashboard, HVAC, light control or similar switch module. For this purpose Melexis and BMW Group have jointly developed a universal configuration of the MLX80103. The integration of LIN physical layer, voltage regulator and integrated application IO’s results in a reduction in component cost. The integration of LIN controller and the set of predefined LIN identifiers make switch modules speak LIN in no time.

Incorporating the Melexis LIN transceiver Physical layer that is now approved by and in use with most car manufacturers today, Melexis LIN ASSPs (Application Specific Standard Products) guarantee state of the art physical layer qualification results. The LIN protocol handler meets the current LIN 2.0 standard and can be easily extended for future LIN 2.1. In close collaboration with car manufacturers Melexis defines the configuration settings of the ASSPs to assure a straightforward fit across different applications and car platforms.

The MLX80103 draws less than 30uA of current in sleep mode and it is wake up capable via the LIN Bus as well as via the switches. Configurable debounce and sampling times easily accommodate a variety of demanding application requirements. The LIN switch slave can be configured to read out up to 34 switches in matrix configuration or as single switches. The information of up to 2 digital encoded rotary switches, is provided on a simple request of the LIN master. Three high voltage protected, analog inputs can convert any analog signal including the battery supply, resistive encoders and resistive switches.

To illuminate the switch module panel, 3 slew rate limited, open drain PWM outputs are available with configurable output currents up to 50mA. With a message from the LIN master the LED output intensity can be adjusted according to OEM specific requirements. The current range can be further extended to drive multiple LEDs in parallel, or, by using external bipolar transistors, it can drive switching relays.

“The MLX80103 is the perfect example of a LIN ASSP” says Michael Bender, LIN product manager at Melexis. “From an application point of view it incorporates state of the art application expertise with maximum configurability into a miniature 6 by 6mm package. From a system design point of view it is really plug and play, with no strings attached. The configurability gives all needed design freedom, whilst minimizing design time and qualification effort. There are no compromises made regarding the ESD and EMC performance of our market leading LIN transceivers, and our LIN handler has been proven in the field as well. There is absolutely no better choice in terms of risk, cost and performance for switch suppliers that want to catch the LIN wave”.