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High-Performance Power ICs and Hall-Effect Sensors
Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. Announces Dual Channel
Switch Interface IC
Simplify the Implementation of your Two-Wire Hall-Effect Sensor
Solution 
Worcester, MA, December 20, 2006 — Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces the release of the A6850, a dual channel switch interface IC designed to simplify the implementation of a two-wire Hall-effect sensor system. This new device eliminates the need for an external sense resistor and comparator thereby reducing system costs. The elimination of the sense resistor also results in a subsequent elimination of the voltage drop across the resistor, which can enable sensing systems to operate down to lower battery voltages. The A6850 offers two channels integrated on a single IC as well as benefits such as current clamping, thermal protection, and low operating current (SLEEP) mode. Allegro’s A6850 is rated over a wide operating voltage and temperature range making this part an excellent fit for various automotive sensing systems.
Allegro’s A6850 uses protected high-side low resistance DMOS MOSFETs to switch the supply voltage to the two Hall-effect devices. Each switch can be controlled independently via individual ENABLE pins and both switches are protected with current-limiting circuitry. The output switches are rated to operate to 26.5 V and will source at least 25 mA per channel before current limiting.
Typical two-wire Hall sensor applications require the user to measure the supply current to determine whether the Hall sensor is switched on (magnetic field present) or switched off (no magnetic field present). This is usually accomplished by using an external series shunt resistor. The A6850 eliminates the need for the external series shunt resistor by incorporating an integrated current mirror which reports the Hall sensor supply current as a 1/10 value on the SENSE1 or SENSE2 output pin. A low current Sleep mode is available (<15 µA) by driving both ENABLE pins low. Also, the A6850 can be used to interface with mechanical switches.
Allegro’s A6850 is supplied in an industry standard profile 8-pin Pb (lead) free SOIC package.
About Allegro
Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. is a global leader in the development, manufacture and marketing of high-performance power integrated circuits and integrated Hall-effect magnetic sensors. Allegro’s innovative, system-level solutions serve high-growth applications within the automotive, computer/office automation, industrial, consumer and communications markets, while our leading-edge product and processes reinforce our expertise in motor driver and power management technology. In addition, we also hold leading positions within printer, scanner, copier and portable device (e.g. cellular phones) applications. With more than 2,400 employees, Allegro is headquartered in Worcester, MA. Further information about Allegro can be found at www.allegromicro.com.
Editorial Contact:
Stephanie Fennelly
Director – Marketing Communications
Tel: (508) 854-5363
sfennelly@allegromicro.com