Preparing signals – low noise and highly sensitive

MAZeT GmbH, the leading system vendor for industrial electronics, is to use Embedded World 2006 to present the MTI04CS/CQ to the public for the first time – the second generation of multi-channel, programmable transimpedance amplifiers:

New multi-channel transimpedance amplifier MTI04CS/CQ from MAZeT as part of the JENCOLOUR product range.

The new JENCOLOUR signal amplifier has been significantly improved in terms of input sensitivity and dynamic characteristics. The MTI circuits are designed for use in preparing signals from sensors with current outputs. The higher sensitivity and greater dynamics of the amplifier make it possible to connect the photo diodes of array and row sensors, such as the new JENCOLOUR true colour sensor MTCSiCx, even at low light volumes and high dynamics when alternating intensity or colour. The MTI circuits conform to ROHS and are supplied in optimum housing forms (SMD) for COB assembly. We can produce other designs such as ‘naked’ chip and alternatives upon request. The MTI04CS/CQ is available in two housing types – SOP16 (MTI04CS) and QSOP16 (MTI04CQ).

The new MTI04CS/CQ signal amplifier has 4 channels integrated on one chip, enabling signal preparation for three-range colour sensors (including reference diode) in one component. This ability to set the transimpedance of the MTI04CS/CQ at 8 different levels gives the customer a wide area in which to accommodate all application requirements. Programming is carried out via three inputs and takes effect for all channels simultaneously, raising amplification settings to 8 levels in contrast to first generation equipment.

In order to activate various different photo diodes, it is possible to adapt the compensation of the transimpedance amplifier digitally in two stages (5pF and 80 pF) to the input capacity of those photo diodes. Input sensitivity is 4 times higher than that of first generation equipment. The lowest current measurement range is 25 nA. Its ability to convert photo currents to the set nA range makes the MTI04SC/CQ ideally suitable for use even with the smallest sensor signals.

The integrated power-down mode enables the MTI04CS/CQ to switch to energy-saving mode. If the MTI04CS/CQ does not need to be used for a short time, bias current consumption can be reduced to 8 µA. The operating temperature range runs from -40°C to +125°C. These characteristics provide new usage opportunities for the signal amplifier, such as use in battery-operated measurement and control units.