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Inductive touch sensing analogue front end

Microchip has introduced the MCP2036 AFE (analogue front end) for inductive touch-sensing applications. The AFE complements the company’s mTouch inductive touch-sensing solutions. The AFE works with almost any 8, 16 or 32bit PIC MCU (microcontroller) or dsPIC DSC (digital signal controller). The inductive-touch AFE includes a multiplexer, a frequency mixer, an amplifier, a driver and a voltage reference. The product lowers component count and reduces design size and cost. Inductive touch-sensing fundamental operating principles enable the device to work through a range of materials, such as plastic, stainless steel or aluminium, as well as thick gloves and on surfaces where liquids are present. These characteristics make inductive touch sensing suitable for applications in the appliance market, where stainless steel is used for front panels. Its robustness makes inductive touch-sensing suitable for the industrial market. The device’s ability to create aesthetically appealing designs coupled with a low accidental triggering capability make it suitable for automotive applications.