New Generation of Position Sensors from NXP Improves Performance of Automotive Applications

KMA210 is suitable for all automotive applications where a precise mechanical angle needs to be measured – from electronic steering and active suspension to automatic headlight adjustment. Due to its high accuracy and robustness the part is especially recommended for under-the-hood power train applications, throttle control and air control valve measurements. In addition, the sensor’s robustness in high temperature ranges (up to 160°C) makes it ideal for Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) applications -- the heart and mind of emissions control.

NXP’s magnetoresistive position sensors enable a safer, cleaner and more comfortable ride. To support global mandates to regulate CO2 in cars, KMA210 sensors can aid in the regulation of the engines untreated emissions. For example, in diesel engines, particle filter regeneration is assisted by throttling intake air which is needed to reduce the amount of emitted particulate mass. NXP’s magnetoresistive position sensors enable ETC actuators to act as the load control and idle speed control unit in drive-by-wire engines, thus allowing a precise control of intake air and facilitating the additional implementation of cruise control or Electronic Stability Program (ESP) function.

By designing the Signal Conditioning ASIC in ABCD9, NXP’s proprietary automotive grade Silicon on Insulator (SOI) technology based on 140 nm CMOS, the Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) performance is significantly improved compared to previous sensor products with integrated ASICs. The device contains two embedded capacitors within the same package which enables system cost reduction as no printed circuit boards or external filter components are required for operation. With respect to robustness, the KMA210 sensor is qualified according to the new HMM (Human Metal Model) and therefore extremely robust with excellent electrostatic discharge (ESD) behaviour. The sensors are fully temperature compensated and ready for use.

Supporting Quotes
Drue Freeman, vice president global automotive sales and marketing, NXP Semiconductors, said: “At NXP, we continue to strive for innovation in automotive technology platforms through leading-edge product and application expertise to make the motoring experience cleaner, safer and more enjoyable. Through close collaboration with key customers during the early stages of design we received excellent guidance on what performance is required to meet the high expectations of the automotive industry with regard to EMC and ESD. The result is a trendsetting device that is extremely robust using the latest in ABCD9 process technology and our expertise in high performance mixed-signal.”

Key Features;
Contactless angle measurements up 180°
High temperature range up to 160°C
Automotive qualification according AEC Q100
Excellent EMC and ESD performance
No external capacitors required
Overvoltage protection
Reflow capable due to MSL1

Availability;
KMA210 is currently available in samples and volume production