MCP990X sensors make accurate low-temp readings

Microchip Technology, Inc. has introduced the MCP990X family of System Management Bus (SMBus) temp sensor ICs that provide high precision readings in low-temperature applications. The temp sensor ICs can monitor up to four channels in cold, outdoor and industrial settings such as freezers, refrigerators, base stations and remote radio units.

The MCP990X have ±1°C maximum accuracy for both external and internal diode temperatures from -40°C to +65°C. Advanced features include remote diode temperature measurement with resistance error correction that compensates for voltage drops from connectors and long board traces, enabling accurate readings of up to 20 inches away from the IC. Injected system noise from components such as DC-DC converters and backlight inverters is also minimised with a sample-frequency hopping filter, allowing for easier placement and routing. The combination of these features with options for dual, triple and quad temperature monitoring provides for a wider range of measurement opportunities for an entire system with a single IC.

Compact package options that take up less silicon space on the PCB and allow for smaller system solutions and better product design for temperature-critical applications include a 2x2 footprint for the MCP9902 dual channel temperature sensor. The IC is the smallest temperature sensor in Microchip's portfolio and 33 per cent smaller than the company's previous generation dual temperature sensor. Additionally, a 3x3 footprint package is available for the MCP9903 triple and MCP9904 quad temp sensors.

Microchip has also introduced the MCP9902 Evaluation Board (part # ADM00615), to enable development with the MCP9902 low temp sensor. This board is available now from microchipDIRECT and any of Microchip's authorised worldwide distributors.

All three members of the MCP990X are available for sampling and volume production in 5,000-unit quantities. The MCP9902 is offered in an 8-pin, 2x2 WDFN package. The MCP9903 and MCP9904 are available in a 10-pin, 3x3 DFN package.