Microchip Launches High-Voltage Touchscreen Line Driver

Microchip Technology Inc. has rolled out an addition to its human interface sensing portfolio in a high-voltage line driver for advanced touchscreen performance.

Dubbed the MTCH652, the projected-capacitive touchscreen driver features an integrated boost converter and is able to interface with any touch controller via SPI to drive up to 19 transmit channels with voltages up to 18V. The features of the new driver allow for better performance in noisy environments, allows thicker cover lenses and reduces the number of samples and time required by the touch controller to scan large displays, Microchip said.

Microchip's MTCH652 touchscreen line driver

Microchip said the driver can be incorporated into white goods (such as washing machines, refrigerators and security panels), automotive (dashboard infotainment and navigation controls), PC peripherals (touch pads and displays) and industrial controls for machine interface.

The MTCH652 is available now in 28-pin QFN, SOIC and SSOP packages priced at $1.04 in 10,000 unit quantities.

In other Microchip news, the company has also introduced a 3DTouchPad incorporating its GestIC technology and offering a detection range of up to 10cm for 3D gestures and supporting up to 10 touch points and multi-finger surface gestures. The 3DTouchPad includes the MTCH652 touchscreen line driver to combine 2D multi-touch and 3D air gesture input.

Microchip said the 3DTouchPad can be used for the PC market and computer touch pads but it can also be used in hands-free sanitary products, home automation, remote controls, game controllers, wearables and automotive applications.