Date: 08/04/2009

Low power comparator with a response time of 45 nano seconds

Microchip has launched a new voltage comparator IC family for applications where low power consumption and fast response is required. This new family called MCP656X operates with a response time of 45 nano seconds.

The features offered in this family include, rail-to-rail input and output, low operating voltage down to 1.8V, low quiescent current of 100 microamperes (µA) and package options with push-pull and open-drain outputs.

Bryan Liddiard, vice president of marketing with Microchip's Analog and Interface Products Division commented, "These devices complement Microchip's existing portfolio of low-power, low-speed comparators."

The targeted applications include industrial (power supplies, motor control), consumer (RF readers, alarm systems and portable electronics) and automotive markets (zero-crossing detectors, high-speed sampling circuits).

Availability: Now in volumes

Price and Packaging: The single channel MCP6561 and MCP6566 comparators are available in 5-pin SOT-23 and SC-70 packages, for $0.37 each in 10,000 unit quantities. The dual channel MCP6562 and MCP6567 comparators are available in 8-pin SOIC and MSOP packages, for $0.51 each in 10,000-unit quantities. The quad channel MCP6564 and MCP6569 comparators are available in 14-pin SOIC and TSSOP packages, for $1.03 each in 10,000-unit quantities.