Diodes Incorporated has announced four omnipolar Hall-effect switches offering sensitivities to match closely the magnetic field strengths used in proximity- and position-detection duties in a variety of different product designs. The company has optimized these micropower devices for battery and low-power operation, typically consuming just 24 μW with a 3-V supply. Suitable for industrial products and portable consumer devices including cell phones, PDAs, and laptops, the high-sensitivity AH1806 and AH1808 each use two Hall-effect plates. With operating thresholds set at ±30 and ±40 G, the switches enable users to control closely the detection point. To suit 2.8- and 3.3-V power rails, the switches' supply range is specified at 2.5 to 3.6 V. AH1806 and AH1808 are initially being provided in the SOT553 package, with SC59(SOT23) versions following in 1Q13. The medium sensitivity AH1807 and low sensitivity AH1809 Hall effect switches provide typical operating points of ±80 and ±130 G, respectively, and are for applications featuring much stronger field strengths, including smart meters, home appliances, and security equipment. For added flexibility, the switches' supply range is 2.5 to 5.5 V and the manufacturer extended the operating temperature range from ?40 to 125 °C. There are two package options to choose from—SOT553 and the leaded SIP-3L—with SC59(SOT23) again following in 1Q13. Based on innovative chopper-stabilized architecture, the switches assure high reliability over their full operating range and offer superior temperature stability, minimal switch-point drift, and enhanced immunity to stress. Prices for the omnipolar Hall-effect switches are between US$0.14 and USD$0.175 each in 50k quantities. Diodes Incorporated
