Sensor transmitter saves board space and power

28th March 2018

Mick Elliott

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Datasheet

The MAX12900 sensor transmitter analogue front end (AFE) from Maxim Integrated is now being shipped by distributor Mouser Electronics. With ultra-low power consumption of just 170µA (typical) and a 5mm × 5 mm footprint, the highly integrated sensor transmitter reduces space by up to 20% and power up to 50% compared to other 4 – 20mA loop solutions.

The sensor transmitter enables increased system accuracy with 10ppm per degree Celsius voltage reference and 0.01% maximum error. The device converts PWM data from a microcontroller into current over a 4 – 20 mA loop, supporting two-, three- and four-wire configurations.

It integrates ten building blocks to help engineers optimise functionality and performance: a low-dropout (LDO) regulator; two conditioner circuits for PWM inputs; two low-power, low-drift general-purpose operational amplifiers; a wide-bandwidth, zero-offset drift operational amplifier; two diagnostic comparators; power-up sequencer; and a low-drift voltage reference.

Support comes in the shape of the MAX12900 evaluation kit, which includes an evaluation board and graphic user interface to enable USB communication between the target device and a PC.

The transmitter is ideal for smart sensors and remote instrumentation in industrial automation and process control.