45nS comparators suit battery-powered apps

Microchip Technology Inc. has announced the MCP6561/2/4/6/7/9 (MCP656X) family of high-speed (45nS) comparators. With rail-to-rail input and output, low operating voltage down to 1.8V, low quiescent current and package options with push-pull and open-drain outputs, the devices provide a high level of performance for a wide variety of applications.

The cost-effective comparators are tailored for battery-powered applications requiring low power and high-speed operation. Their low quiescent current of 100?A generates less heat, extends battery life and minimizes thermal-related challenges. With their low operation voltage (down to 1.8V), the comparators can be powered directly from the battery, allowing for full battery utilization. A rail-to-rail I/O structure provides greater dynamic range and better performance across the entire operating voltage range.

Applications in the industrial (power supplies, motor control); consumer (RF readers, alarm systems and portable electronics) and automotive markets (zero-crossing detectors, high-speed sampling circuits) are appropriate for the MCP656X comparators.

Designers wanting to get started with the MCP656X comparators can use a number of Microchip evaluation boards, including the Voltage Supervisor SOT-23-5/6 Evaluation Board (Part # VSUPEV2). This board provides a blank PCB for easily evaluating the 5-pin SOT-23 packaged MCP656X comparator. For the 8-pin SOIC and MSOP packages, designers can use the 8-pin SOIC/MSOP/TSSOP/DIP evaluation board (Part # SOIC8EV). Both boards are available today at microchipDIRECT (www.microchipdirect.com), for $10. For evaluating the comparators in the 14-pin SOIC and TSSOP packages, the 14-pin SOIC/TSSOP/DIP Evaluation Board (Part # SOIC14EV) is available at microchipDIRECT for $20.00. Additionally, the free online Mindi Simulator Tool is available at www.microchip.com/mindi. This tool enables the design and analysis of various analog circuits used in power-management and linear applications.

The single channel MCP6561 and MCP6566 comparators are available in 5-pin SOT-23 and SC-70 packages for $0.37 each in 10,000-unit quantities. The dual channel MCP6562 and MCP6567 comparators are available in 8-pin SOIC and MSOP packages for $0.51 each in 10,000-unit quantities. The quad channel MCP6564 and MCP6569 comparators are available in 14-pin SOIC and TSSOP packages for $1.03 each in 10,000-unit quantities.

These devices are now available for sampling and volume production.

- Ismini Scouras
eeProductCenter