Date: 10/06/2009

nductive touch sensing analog front end IC for PIC microcontrollers

Microchip has announced MCP2036 Analog Front End (AFE) for inductive touch-sensing applications, which works with almost any 8-, 16- or 32-bit PIC microcontroller (MCU) or dsPIC Digital Signal Controller (DSC) from Microchip. This inductive-touch AFE includes a multiplexer, a frequency mixer, an amplifier, a driver, and a voltage reference. Additionally, the AFE can be configured for a range of applications in the appliance, industrial and automotive markets, among others.

MCP2036 Analog Front End (AFE) has high-frequency, current-mode coil driver for converting AC sense voltages into DC levels. This chip also has built-in output amplifier/filter to improve resolution and limit noise and virtual ground reference generator for single supply operation.

Inductive touch sensing is used to control devices and equipments through a front panel, such as plastic, stainless steel or aluminum. Inductive touch sensor equipped systems can be operated even through thick gloves and presence of liquids on surface doesn't matter.

"Microchip's inductive-touch technology provides unique capabilities that complement our capacitive touch-sensing products," said Steve Drehobl, vice president of Microchip's Security, Microcontroller and Technology Development Division. "With the MCP2036 AFE, we are continuing to make it easier and less expensive for engineers to make use of these unique features for applications requiring metal finishing and robust operation in wet environments."

Availability: Now
Package: 16-pin, 4 mm x 4 mm QFN package, as well as 14-pin PDIP and SOIC
Price: Each at $0.33 each in 10 K pieces.
For details visit http://www.microchip.com/mcp2036.