A1171: Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. Introduces a New MicroPower Hall-Effect Switch with Complementary Push-Pull Outputs

Worcester, MA ¨C December 19, 2007 ¡ª Allegro® introduces a new ultra sensitive, Hall-effect switch with latched digital outputs and either unipolar or omnipolar actuation. It features operation at low supply currents and voltages, making it ideal for battery-operated electronics. Key features such as: lower minimum Vcc, a small, low-profile package, and push-pull complementary outputs, all serve to satisfy present and future trends in battery operated consumer products. This new device is targeted at the consumer and industrial markets.

The low operating supply voltage, 1.65 V to 3.5 V, and unique clocking algorithm assist in reducing the average operating power consumption. For example, the power requirements are less than 15 µW with a 2.75 V supply. Unlike some traditional Hall-effect switches, Allegro¡¯s A1171allows the user to configure how the device is magnetically actuated. Under default conditions the device will activate output switching with either a north or south polarity magnetic field of sufficient strength. In the EW, 6-pin, microleaded package, the polarity specific actuation can be set by the user via an external selection pin to operate in a unipolar mode, switching only on a north or south polarity field. Lastly, the A1171 has two push-pull output structures, which source and sink current to eliminate the need for external pull-up resistors. This polarity-independence, as well as the minimal power requirements, allows the A1171 to easily replace reed switches, providing superior reliability and ease of manufacturing while eliminating the requirement for signal conditioning.

Allegro¡¯s A1171 is currently available in the EW (2 mm §¹ 1.5 mm §¹ 0.4 mm DFN) package.