Gear tooth speed sensor gives transmission designers more options

Allegro MicroSystems has launched a new, state-of-the-art giant magnetoresistance (GMR) speed sensor to measure the rotation of ferromagnetic gears. The ATS19480 speed sensor IC gives a single-channel solution ideal for HEV and pure EV transmissions, with use cases stretching to two-wheelers, off-road vehicles, and industrial application designs requiring speed-only information.

Combining advanced GMR technology with leading automotive-grade algorithms and packaging technology, the company offers a cutting-edge, comprehensive transmission sensor portfolio that meets the demands of today’s system developers and manufacturers while taking advantage of its' 20 years of speed-sensing expertise application-specific experience, and technological advancement.

The device adds a speed-only protocol to its transmission speed and direction sensor IC, establishing a new standard for speed sensing and enabling developers to deliver the highest levels of in-system capability and adaptability. With an air gap that’s 50% larger than existing options, it raises design-in flexibility, extends design margin and tolerance capability, and aids a wider range of sensor installation locations. These assist in reducing system complexity, size, weight, cost, and energy consumption - increasing efficiency and minimising carbon footprints.

“As our newest single-chip GMR solution for gear tooth sensing, the ATS19480 optimises performance for emerging electric vehicle applications. It’s unique to the market and outperforms competing technologies because of the high air gap and level of accuracy,” says Peter Wells, magnetic speed business unit director at Allegro. “Our new speed sensor allows designers to do things that haven’t been possible until now. It can be placed virtually anywhere; transmissions can be smaller and lighter than ever before, which is especially important in applications where designers want the speed-only protocol. It’s a real game-changer.”