Allegro MicroSystems have announced the release of its ATS605 range of rotation sensors. This device provides a single chip solution to rotational position sensing of a ferrous gear target. Using three integrated Hall sensors together with Hall interface amplifiers, AGC stage, A/D converter and a synchronous digital controller, the ATS605 is able to accurately resolve the movement of much smaller-toothed cogs than was possible with previous revolution detector solutions.

Signals from the three Hall sensors are routed to two independent differential channels where digital processing with Automatic gain control helps compensate for magnetic variation and system offsets. The open-drain outputs provide voltage output signals which mirror the sensed target’s shape, with a phase separation between the two channels proportionate to the size of the target teeth vs. the Hall element spacing. These produce a highly accurate speed output and can also provide direction of travel information. Devices with an ‘H’ suffix have a maximum operational frequency of 40 kHz.

The ATS605 is targeted at automotive, industrial, white goods and commercial markets with end applications including industrial motor control (forklifts, robotics, rotational gearing), electric motor position and sliding door/long-travel bi-directional sensing.