Diodes Incorporated has announced the release of three new Hall-effect switches, namely the AH1899A/B/S. These switches are specifically designed for use in mobile and portable devices, such as smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, handheld gaming consoles, and other electronic devices. They are used to detect the open or closed status of covers and cases, as well as for proximity detection and general contactless switching.

One of the key features of these switches is their ability to operate at a low supply voltage, ranging from 1.1V to 2.0V. This makes them compatible with modern application chipsets that typically operate at 1.2V, ensuring ease of integration. The switches are also highly power-efficient, with a low quiescent current that can go as low as 0.95µA at 1.2V. They incorporate a hibernating clocking system that maximizes energy savings, thereby extending the battery life of portable devices.

The AH1899A/B/S switches are omnipolar, which means they can operate with either north or south magnetic poles close to the surface of the package. They utilize an advanced chopper-stabilized topology, which ensures minimal drift in the operating (BOP) and release (BRP) points with changes in supply voltage and temperature. The switches are available in two sensitivity grades, allowing designers to customize the switch response according to their specific application requirements. The AH1899B and AH1899S have a magnetic field strength (B) threshold of 30 Gauss for operation and below 20 Gauss for release. On the other hand, the AH1899A is a high-sensitivity version that operates at 18 Gauss and releases at 12 Gauss. All versions remain off when no magnetic field is present.

In terms of package options, the switches are offered in an X2-DFN1010-4 (Type B) surface-mount package, which provides board-space savings. With dimensions of just 1.0mm x 1.0mm and a height of 0.4mm, the footprint of these switches is smaller than typical alternatives. Additionally, the internal circuitry of the switches includes integrated pull-up and pull-down resistors, eliminating the need for external components and saving valuable PCB area.

The AH1899A, AH1899B, and AH1899S switches are currently in production and are available for purchase. Pricing starts at $0.11 per unit for quantities of 5,000 pieces. These switches, along with Diodes' full portfolio of Hall-effect sensors, can be found in the Hall-effect sensor part selector.