New package option for two-wire unipolar Hall-effect switch family

Minimises external component count and simplifies design

Allegro MicroSystems: A new package option for the Allegro MicroSystems A115x family of two-wire unipolar Hall-effect switches is now available from Allegro MicroSystems Europe.

The new package option eliminates the need for an external capacitor and the associated PCB, saving size, component count and assembly cost and significantly simplifying the design process.

The A115x family, comprising the A1152, A1153, A1156, and A1157 devices, are factory-trimmed to optimise magnetic switchpoint accuracy. The different devices are distinguished by the choice of magnetic switch-points, output current, output polarity, and package.

These devices are produced using the Allegro™ advanced BiCMOS wafer fabrication process, which uses a patented high-frequency 4-phase chopper-stabilisation technique. This technique achieves magnetic stability over the full operating temperature range, and eliminates offsets inherent in devices with a single Hall element that are exposed to harsh application environments.

The A115x sensors were developed for use in automotive and industrial applications that are safety-critical or involve long sensor wiring harnesses. Typical applications include seat track position sensing, seat-belt buckle presence, hood/trunk latching, and shift selector position sensing.

Two-wire switches are particularly advantageous in cost- and/or weight-sensitive applications because they require one less wire for operation than the more traditional open-collector output switches. In addition, the system offers diagnostic capabilities because there is always output current flowing in either of two narrow ranges. A current level not within these ranges indicates a fault condition.

All A115x family members are offered in three package styles. The LH is a SOT-23W style miniature low-profile package for surface-mount applications. The UA is a 3-pin ultra-miniature single inline package for through-hole mounting. The UB is a 2-pin ultra-miniature single inline package with an integrated capacitor for through-hole mounting or for welding directly to connector pins, eliminating the PCB entirely. All three packages are RoHS-compliant, with 100% matt tin leadframe plating.

About Allegro
Allegro MicroSystems, LLC is a leader in developing, manufacturing and marketing high-performance semiconductors. Allegro's innovative solutions serve high-growth applications within the automotive market, with additional focus on office automation, industrial, and consumer/communications solutions. Allegro is headquartered in Worcester, Massachusetts (USA) with design, applications, and sales support centers located worldwide. Further information about Allegro can be found at www.allegromicro.com

Allegro MicroSystems Europe, headquartered in Chertsey, United Kingdom, is the European sales and marketing operation, and operates a network of representatives and distributors throughout Europe.  Allegro also has an engineering design centre in Edinburgh in Scotland and an application and marketing centre in Annecy in France.