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Chandler, Ariz. — Microchip Technology Inc. expanded its MTCH10x mTouch sensing portfolio with the launch of the turnkey MTCH102-5-8 capacitive touch controllers. In a hardware-only configuration, these 2-, 5- and 8-channel controllers can replace mechanical buttons with a simple digital output. This makes it easy to add proximity and touch detection to any application that is constrained by size, power or cost, said Microchip.
The MTCH102-5-8 capacitive touch controllers feature advanced multi-stage noise filtering algorithms to deliver high reliability and more sensitive touch performance including operation through a glove. They support a range of touch-sensor shapes and sizes; feature automatic compensation for environmental conditions, and provide reliable operation in the presence of water. In addition, the controllers feature active guarding that increases proximity-sensing sensitivity and makes the electronic design robust, even with long board traces to the touch sensors, said Microchip.
Applications include industrial (e.g., light switches), home automation (e.g., security control panels, thermostats and lighting controls), office equipment (e.g., printers, copiers and fax machines), and consumer (e.g., toys, white goods and appliances) markets.
The MTCH102-5-8 is supported by Microchip’s new compact demonstration board (part # DM160229, $29.95), which will be available in November.
Availability: The two-channel MTCH102 (MSOP or uDFN packages), five-channel MTCH105 (QFN or TSSOP package), and eight-channel MTCH108 (uQFN or SSOP package) are available now for sampling and volume production.
Pricing: Starts at $0.44 each for the MTCH102; $0.59 each for the MTCH105, and $0.65 each for the MTCH108, all in quantities of 10,000. To purchase, go to microchipDIRECT or contact one of Microchip’s authorized distribution partners.
