Texas Instruments has defined a new data converter category that uses coils and springs as contactless inductive sensors.
TI's first entry in what it calls the inductance-to-digital converter (LDC) category is the LDC1000. The devices target applications where measurements can be made on the position, motion or composition of a metal or conductive target. LDCs can also detect the compression, extension or twist of a spring.
Inductive sensing is used in everyday applications such as simple push buttons, knobs, and on/off switches and in high-performance applications such high-resolution heart rate monitors, turbine flow meters and high-speed motor/gear controllers.
LDCs address many different markets, including automotive, white goods, consumer electronics, mobile devices, computing, industrial and medical, according to TI.
"LDCs provide high-resolution sensing of any metal or conductor—including the human body," said Dave Heacock, senior vice president of TI's Silicon Valley Analog unit.
The LDC consumes 8.5 mW and 1.25 mW in standby mode, TI said. It exhibits 16-bit resonance impedance and 24-bit inductance values, according to the company.
Since the LDC uses contactless sensing, these devices are immune to nonconductive contaminants—such as oil, dirt and dust—which can shorten equipment life, TI said. The sensor can to be located remotely from the electronics, where PCBs cannot be placed. The converter uses low-cost sensors and is targeted at applications that do not require magnets, which add significant cost, TI said.
Last week, TI narrowed its third quarter revenue and earnings targets, saying the company now expects revenue to be between $3.15 billion and $3.29 billion, compared to the prior target range of $3.09 billion to $3.35 billion. TI said it expects earnings per share of between 51 and 55 cents. TI's third quarter ends on Sept. 30.
