Microchip debuts MCP990X multi-channel temperature sensor family

     Microchip Technology, a global leader in integrated microcontroller, mixed-signal, emulator and flash memory proprietary solutions, announced the MCP990X System Management Bus (SMBus) temperature sensor IC family. Offering up to four channels of temperature monitoring, the new device is ideal for cold outdoor and industrial cryogenic environments, including applications ranging from freezers and refrigerators to base stations and remote RF units. With external and internal diodes ranging from -40°C to +65°C and up to ±1°C, these IC devices are a low-cost, flexible solution for accurate temperature measurement at low temperatures.

     Advanced features of the MCP990X series include remote diode temperature measurement with resistance error correction that compensates for voltage drops in connectors and long tracks, ensuring accurate readings even up to 20 inches from the IC. In addition, the new device includes a sampling frequency-hopping filter that minimizes system noise injected from components such as DC-DC converters and backlit inverters, facilitating component placement and wiring arrangements. These features, combined with multiple options for 2/3/4 channel temperature monitoring, allow the new device to cope with a variety of measurement environments, while the entire system requires only one IC.

     Bryan J. Liddiard, vice president of marketing for Microchip's Mixed Signal and Linear Products Division, said: "This expansion of the temperature management portfolio, which focuses on remote and industrial applications with lower ambient temperatures, brings a unique product to the industry. "These new devices complement Microchip's extensive microcontroller product line, improving system design and helping to shorten product development cycles based on the inspection and processing needs of the final product."

     The new device's small package size reduces chip footprint on the PCB board, enabling smaller system solutions and better product design for temperature-critical applications, such as the MCP9902, a dual-channel temperature sensor in a compact 2x2 size package. The IC device is the smallest temperature sensor in Microchip's product line, reducing the size of the company's previous generation of dual-channel temperature sensors by 33%. In addition, the MCP9903 three-channel and MCP9904 four-channel temperature sensors are available in 3x3 size packages.