Utilizing its expertise in wireless technology and passive entry/start systems for automotive, Melexis introduces the MLX74190. This low-frequency (LF) initiator IC, consists of two high power, independently programmable LF drivers plus built-in immobilizers. The device is highly suited to a variety of different wireless communication deployments where power efficient operation is of prime importance, in such diverse sectors as automotive, safety and building automation.
One of the main applications for this device is automobile remote passive start, where it is used to transmit a high power LF signal to wake-up the key inside the car. The key sends out its encrypted identification number to the car via an ultra-high frequency (UHF) signal, enabling the engine to start. It can also serve for a similar purpose with other vehicles, such as motorcycles, scooters, all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), jet skis, snowmobiles and motorboats, where the key holder can be detected when approaching the engine and will be able to activate it from a ‘Start’ button. Conversely it can serve as a ‘dead man switch’ so that if the driver falls off then the engine is automatically cut. In addition, it may be incorporated into building access systems, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) initiators and pet identification systems.
Both of the LF drivers can be programmed to generate sine (1A peak maximum) or square (2.5 A peak maximum) waves with frequencies between 109 kHz and 140 kHz and an output amplitude from 0.25 V to 32 V peak-to-peak. These drivers can be used in either full-bridge or half-bridge configurations and have sophisticated protection mechanisms which safeguard them against over-current and over-temperature conditions. Amplitude-shift keying (ASK) or phase-shift keying (PSK) modulation can be used to transmit LF telegrams to the key or LF receiver. A very flexible data programing method, allows supporting a large variety of encoding types.
The two built-in immobilizers support ASK and frequency-shift keying (FSK) modulations. These can be employed should the key’s battery become depleted and therefore unable to generate a signal. Under such circumstances passive RFID communication can be initiated when the key comes into close proximity of the initiator device. The immobilizers are compatible with the most popular types of passive transponders.
The diagnostic capabilities of the MLX74190 make it possible to detect various forms of misconnection with the LF antenna (such as short to GND, short to Vbat, open load or incorrect resonance frequency). The device comes in a compact 48-pin TQFP package. An operational temperature range of -40°C to 105°C is supported. Unit pricing begins at $2.76 for 10 k volumes.
