Date: 04/10/2012

Smallest combo chip for automotive keyless entry systems released by NXP

NXP Semiconductors N.V. has announced the NCF2960 – the combo chip solution for automotive keyless entry with immobilizer functions. The compact solution integrates a security transponder, micro RISC kernel, and multi-channel radio transmitter in a single package.

The NCF2960 addresses the demand from car OEMs for fashionable and distinctive car key designs. The chip’s package size has been reduced by 44% compared to the previous generation. The device is available in a 24-pin HVQFN package measuring 4 x 4 mm and offers key fob manufacturers with design freedom in choosing form factors and in placement of command buttons.

One of the chip’s key features is its RF multi-channel capability. Rather than transmitting its signal on one frequency only, the integrated transmitter allows the signal to be transmitted on multiple frequency channels. Frequency hopping maximizes the reliability of car keys in environments suffering from RF jamming. The NCF2960 also features stabilized output power in order to reduce the impact of varying battery voltage and temperatures.

The NCF2960 also enables cost savings due to optical inspection of solder connections rather than using complex x-ray processes. Optical inspection is made possible by the 24-pin QFN package with wettable flanks.

Drue Freeman, Vice President Global Automotive Sales & Marketing at NXP Semiconductors: “A key fob is the first thing a user touches before he or she gets into the car. For car OEMs, key fobs are a way of enhancing the driving experience, improving their brand image, and differentiating themselves from competitors. As the market leader in car access, NXP is launching its second-generation single-chip combo solution, the NCF2960, integrating immobilization, remote keyless entry (RKE) and an RF transmitter. A key aspect in the product design phase was to provide new valuable features – such as stabilized RF output power, frequency hopping and a variety of encryption options – in the smallest possible package, without any compromises on performance.”

Features
1. Single-chip security transponder and keyless entry solution with on-chip multi-channel UHF transmitter (310 to 447 MHz, up to 950 MHz optionally)
2. Transponder emulation based on HT3, HT-AES or HT-Pro2 RISC programmable device operation
3. Calculation unit supporting HT3 (96-bit) and AES (128-bit)
4. 16 KB flash for user application; 2 KB ultra-low-power EEPROM for extended data storage; 1 KB RAM
5. Accommodates up to eight command button
6. Current source option for direct LED drive
7. Stabilized RF output power
8. Single lithium cell operations, 2.1V to 3.6V
9. C-compiler supported software development

Engineering samples of NCF2960 are available.

Source: NXP