Contactless micropower switching for automotives released

Mexelis has introduced the MLX92235, an ultra-low-power Hall-effect switch with best-in-class tolerances for a reliable and predictable output update rate. This tiny device is a game-changer for automotive micropower applications such as door handles, e-latches, sun visors, infotainment buttons, brake light switches, and more.

Many systems in modern vehicles rely on accurate switch and latch mechanisms for feedback. With numerous switches deployed across cars, ensuring they operate efficiently is important, minimising power draw. Every microwatt counts. This microwatt switch effectively addresses these requirements with four product variants. Featuring industry-leading accuracy, consistency, and reliability, the three-wire monolithic magnetic switches ensure optimal performance throughout the vehicle lifespan.

To minimise board space utilisation, the MLX92235 does not require any external components and is offered in a standard automotive TSOT23-3L package. Its reliable operation is ensured by the wide operating temperature range of -40C to 105C in demanding vehicular environments. Moreover, including flexible input voltage, choice of magnetic threshold, temperature coefficient, update rate, and output options (push-pull or open drain) enables seamless integration into various vehicle systems.

The device's advanced power design incorporates integrated logic that allows automatic sleep/awake sequencing, delivering a typical sleep current consumption of 0.65μA at 1.8V. Furthermore, it includes selectable sleep time from 0.6ms to 800ms.

As a highly sensitive chopper stabilised Hall Sensor, the device provides accurate and contactless feedback in various magnetic functions, including unipolar/omnipolar switch or latch deployments. The device's versatility, compactness, and efficiency make it a valuable asset for automotive designers, where its feedback can be harnessed to develop intelligent vehicle functions, such as the automated activation of ambient lighting when opening a door or sun visor.

"With the new MLX92235 we have delivered contactless Hall effect reliability and accuracy in a low power design to replace all mechanical switches in a car," stated Minko Daskalov, product line manager at Melexis. "It will help automotive engineers to bring intelligence to a wide range of automotive switch and latch functions, ultimately benefiting the end-user."