Analog-to-Digital Converter from Microchip Technology

Low-Power ADC Provides Highest Resolution Available in SOT-23, Plus Onboard PGA and Voltage Reference for Smaller Designs

Microchip Technology Inc., a leading provider of microcontroller and analog semiconductors, today announced the highest resolution analog-to-digital converter (ADC) available in a SOT-23 package. The low-power, 18-bit, Delta-Sigma MCP3421 ADC features an integrated voltage reference and Programmable Gain Amplifier (PGA) on-chip, which reduces the need for external components and enables a smaller overall design footprint. With its 6-pin package, low power consumption and high resolution, the new ADC is ideal for portable measurement applications in the industrial, medical, consumer and automotive markets.

The MCP3421 ADC uses an I2C™ compatible serial interface and operates from a single power supply (2.7V to 5.5V). Microchip's low-power technology enables the device's extremely low power consumption of just 155 microAmperes (μA) at 5V continuous conversion, which helps to extend battery life in portable measurement devices. Additionally, with the device's onboard PGA, users can select the gains of x1, x2, x4 or x8 before the analog-to-digital conversion takes place, enabling very high-resolution conversion of even small input signals. The integrated voltage reference and oscillator lessen the need for external components, resulting in simpler designs and a smaller overall design footprint.

"Manufacturers are constantly pressured to provide more compact, higher-resolution products that last longer on smaller batteries," said Bryan Liddiard, vice president of marketing with Microchip's Analog and Interface Products Division. "The MCP3421 ADC meets these needs. It consumes very little power and provides 18-bit resolution, plus an integrated PGA and voltage reference "• all in a miniature, SOT-23 package."

Example applications for the MCP3421 ADC include portable devices in the following markets: industrial (portable instrumentation, pressure sensors, weigh scales, handheld meters and multimeters); medical (heart rate monitors and blood glucose meters); consumer (weigh scales and handheld meters); and automotive (sensor interfaces and fuel gauges).

By Microchip Technology