Next-generation chemical sensor interface device in wearable design

ICsense, an independent subsidiary of the TDK Group Company, focuses on supplying ASICs and custom chip design services and has begun mass production of a new chemical sensor interface ASIC.

The custom IC was created for inclusion in a wearable design and is now being produced in large volumes to satisfy demand. The company was selected for this project because of its long track record of developing/manufacturing high-performance sensor readout ICs and its vast industrialisation experience.

“We are proud to announce the successful ramp-up of this high-runner,” explains Bram De Muer, co-founder and CEO, ICsense. “Playing a pivotal role in the end product, the custom chip was developed exclusively for this client. The design needed to be ultra-low power due to it being incorporated into a battery-powered system. Our team succeeded in reaching a power consumption level of only a few µA in full measurement mode, which is currently state-of-the-art for this type of sensor.”

The ASIC comprises an ISO15693-compliant NFC transceiver. Data from the ultra-high-accuracy sensor readout is transferred wirelessly to mobile devices. The customer sought to integrate all functionality into an ASIC, to lower cost and save area, as the wearable design had very limited space available.

“We see a steep increase in the number of ASIC requests, also as a result of the global chip shortage and accelerating digitalisation and focus on customer experience. Customers are looking for supply certainty and develop their own exclusive ASIC,” De Muer continues. “In contrast to value chain aggregators or design houses, we have all the necessary expertise in-house to support mass production. This includes analog and digital design teams, test and product engineers and full in-house ATE test development capabilities.”

electronica 2022, Stand B3-560, 15-18 November.