Allegro® Announces A New Family Of User-Programmable, Hall-Effect Linear Sensor ICs In Miniature Packages

Worcester, MA, February 16, 2007 — Allegro® is introducing to the industry the first family of programmable, Hall-effect, linear sensor ICs available in miniature package options: TO-92 (3-lead, single in-line package) or SOT-23W (3-lead, surface mount). This new family of devices further enhances Allegro’s already diverse portfolio of position detecting sensor ICs as they provide users with the accuracy and flexibility of fully programmable linears without the penalty of a larger package and higher cost. This flexibility and accuracy is accomplished in two ways. First, the one-time programmable, read-only memory (OTP-ROM) contained in these analog sensor ICs allows users to optimize the device in a finished sensor IC assembly. This optimization serves to reduce inaccuracies caused by manufacturing tolerances and simplifies the assembly process. Second, the patented dynamic offset cancellation provides extremely low offset and minimal temperature drift.

Through a series of voltage pulses on the output of either three-lead, miniature package, the user is able to finely adjust the sensitivity of these devices around one of four predetermined nominal values (2.5 mV/G, 3.1 mV/G, 5.0 mV/G and 7.0 mV/G). Even greater flexibility is available by means of adjusting the quiescent output voltage (output without the presence of a magnetic field), and the temperature coefficient, as well as setting the output polarity for each device. The temperature coefficient of this family is designed to compensate for temperature coefficients of typical samarium cobalt (SmCo) magnets.

About Allegro

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. is a leader in developing, manufacturing and marketing high-performance power and Hall-effect sensor integrated circuits. Allegro's innovative solutions serve high-growth applications within the automotive, communications, computer/office automation, consumer and industrial markets. Allegro is headquartered in Worcester, Massachusetts (USA) with design and applications centers located in North and South America, Asia, and Europe. 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