PHOENIX, 19 Nov. 2012. ON Semiconductor, a supplier of high-performance silicon solutions for energy-efficient electronics, is introducing an integrated capacitance-to-digital converter integrated circuit (IC). The new IC is designed to speed the implementation and reduce the component count of electrostatic capacitance touch sensor applications.
“Because of its high sensitivity, the LC717A00AR is ideal for applications where users may wear gloves or where an air gap or a thick, protective glass cover is needed,” says Takekiyo Okumura, general manager of ON Semiconductor’s SANYO division. “In addition to integrated anti-noise circuitry, the device automatically compensates for changes in temperature and humidity to prevent false touch detection and operational failure from environmental changes."
The LC717A00AR, the first in a series of ON Semiconductor touch sensor ICs, simplifies the replacement of mechanical switches with capacitive touch sensors, according to a representative. The LC717A00AR features eight capacitor sensing inputs and eight digital outputs, and employs proprietary differential capacitance detection technology to enable high sensitivity and high noise resistance. A built-in logic circuit detects the on/off state of each input and outputs the appropriate result without the need for additional components or control software, says a representative.
Capacitances in the femto Farad order can be detected and touch sensitivity is pre-configured, eliminating the need for complicated sensitivity adjustments. The device is compatible with a supply voltage of 2.6 volts to 5.5 volts and operates with a typical current consumption of 320 micro-amps (µA) at a supply voltage of 2.8 volts. Rated operating temperature is -40°C to 105°C.
The LC717A00AR is available now in a lead-free VCT28 package.
