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High-Performance Power ICs and Hall-Effect Sensors
New Micropower Omnipolar Ultra-Sensitive Hall-Effect Switch
A More Reliable Contactless Solution
Worcester, MA, December 12, 2001 — Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. introduces its next generation Omnipolar Hall-effect switch: the A3212, an ultra-sensitive, pole independent, Hall-effect switch with a latched digital output. The A3212 provides improved magnetic sensitivity with minimal switchpoint shifts over temperature. The small package size and low power demands of the A3212 make it a cost effective replacement for mechanical/reed switches in all types of portable applications.
A 2.5 volt to 3.5 volt battery operation and a unique clocking scheme reduce the average operating power requirements to less than 15 µW with a 2.75 volt supply. Unlike other Hall-effect switches, either a north or south pole of sufficient strength will turn the output ON; in the absence of a magnetic field, the output is OFF. The polarity independence and minimal power requirements allow these devices to easily replace reed switches for superior reliability and ease of manufacturing, while eliminating the requirement for signal conditioning.
Improved stability is made possible through chopper stabilization (dynamic offset cancellation), which reduces the residual offset voltage normally caused by device overmolding, temperature dependencies, and thermal stress.
The sensor is especially suited for operation in battery-operated, hand-held equipment, or any portable or battery operated device desiring a contactless switch such as flip phones, pagers, personal organizers, laptops and palm computers. The A3212 is supplied in a three-lead Ultra-Mini SIP for through-hole or surface mounting, as well as a three-lead Miniature Low Profile Surface Mount package.
Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. is a leading supplier of advanced mixed-signal power semiconductors and Hall-effect sensors targeted toward the office automation, automotive, industrial, and portable electronics markets. With over 2,500 employees, Allegro is headquartered in Worcester, MA and operates multiple wafer-fabrication plants worldwide. Further information on Allegro can be found at www.allegromicro.com.
Editorial Contact:
Stephanie Fennelly
Director – Marketing Communications
Tel: (508) 854-5363
sfennelly@allegromicro.com