LIN slave MLX80104 enables easy LIN connection of switch modules and IO-Extensions

October 14, 2010 - Melexis extends its family of smart LIN slave IC's with a new generation of reconfigurable LIN switch slave. The benefits from integrating the LIN physical layer, a voltage regulator and configurable application IO’s are a reduction in component cost and the elimination of software development time. The MLX80104 can make switch modules speak LIN in no time.

The MLX80104 LIN slave IC incorporates the qualified and proven Melexis LIN transceiver physical layer. As a direct benefit theMelexis MLX80104 provides world leading integrated ESD protection results. The LIN protocol handler meets all current LIN standards like LIN2.0, LIN2.1 as well as SAE J2602. In close collaboration with car manufacturers Melexis defines the configuration settings of the MLX80104 to assure a straightforward fit across different applications and car platforms.

The MLX80104 is a fully integrated LIN slave on a single Die. All necessary components like physical layer LIN tranceiver, LIN controller, voltage regulator, application controller as well as supporting functions like ADC, PWM generation as well as high voltage capable IOs are included. This high integration level reduces the BOM dramatically and enables the development of very compact and small LIN slave modules. Thanks to the well established Melexis dual task microcontroller implementation, an already approved LIN driver can be used and the application can be completely decoupled from the LIN network load. Application software is handled by the 16-bit RISC microcontroller block in the IC.

The MLX80104 draws less than 50uA of current in sleep mode and it is wake up capable via the LIN Bus as well as via connected switches or other wake up sources. The LIN slave supports switches in matrix as well as single switch configurations connected to 18 available IOs. All IOs are high voltage resistant and therefore remote off module connections can be supported. Rotary encoder inputs can be supported via the eight interrupt capable IOs. Different analog inputs can convert any analog signal like resistive encoders and resistive switches. An internal battery monitor enables supply voltage dependent functions.

To illuminate the switch module panel, 8 open drain PWM outputs are available with a configurable PWM base frequency from 45Hz to 45kHz. With a message from the LIN master the LED output intensity can be adjusted according to OEM specific requirements.

All the above functions are implemented on one piece of silicon in a very small 5x5mm QFN package. This enables, with a minimum of external components, a LIN slave application on a very small PCB space.

“The MLX80104 is the perfect example of a LIN ASSP” says Michael Bender, LIN product line manager at Melexis. “From an application point of view it incorporates state of the art application expertise with maximum configurability into a miniature 5 by 5mm package. The integrated functions give all needed design freedom, whilst minimizing design time and qualification effort. There is absolutely no better choice in terms of risk, cost and performance for switch suppliers that want to catch the LIN wave”