Renesas introduces sensor signal conditioning chip with integrated LIN output interface

Renesas Electronics has announced the launch of the ZSSC4132, an automotive pressure sensor solution with an integrated LIN v2.2a interface and automotive grade certification. The single-package sensor Signal conditioning chip (SSC) is a compact form factor that offers superior performance, a highly flexible design, and a cost-effective solution for applications such as HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems) in plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), battery electric vehicles (BEV), and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEV) environmental control systems.

The ZSSC4132 can be configured for almost any resistance bridge sensor. This flexibility, combined with its leading-edge performance, integrated LIN physical interface, small package, and AEC-Q100 Grade 0 certification, makes it ideal for small vehicle sensor modules with limited space, tight budgets, and in-line calibration (EOL) requirements.

Christian Wolf, Vice President, Automotive Sensors Business Division, Renesas Electronics, said: "HVAC is very important for electric vehicle (EV) battery systems, and Oems are looking for ways to improve system efficiency while maintaining high performance and tight cost control. With the ZSSC4132, customers have access to a complete LIN-certified SSC solution, enabling them to easily and cost-effectively optimize HVAC system development in mid-to-high-end EVs and HEVs."

Key features of the ZSSC4132:

The ZSSC4132 combines advanced analog Front End (AFE) technology to enhance sensor signal conditioning and digital calibration capabilities to significantly reduce noise sensitivity and provide high-precision pressure and temperature readings. The SSC's high level of integration minimizes the need for external components, thereby reducing overall bill of Materials (BOM) requirements. In addition, the ZSSC4132's unique digital calibration capabilities help users minimize calibration efforts, further reducing overall system costs.

Other features include:

● LIN v2.2a certification and compatibility with LIN v1.3, v2.0 and v2.1

● Differential bridge sensor input, full scale output accuracy of ± 0.5% in the temperature range from -40°C to 150°C

● 12 to 14 bit ADC resolution

● The slave node location detection function on the LIN bus allows SSC to assign a unique ID to the device

● Overvoltage and reverse polarity protection circuit

● Electromagnetic Compatibility

● Multiple diagnostic functions