Microchip launches four-channel thermocouple conditioning IC

Microchip Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: MCHP) announced the release of its MCP9604 integrated thermocouple conditioning IC, which the company describes as the first single-chip, four-channel I2C thermocouple conditioning IC to deliver up to ±1.5°C system accuracy.

The MCP9604 device integrates ADCs, cold junction compensation temperature sensors, amplifiers and other components required for temperature measurement in a single chip. The IC supports eight common thermocouple types and operates across a temperature range from -200°C to +1,372°C.

According to the company, the device uses higher-order NIST ITS-90 equations rather than single-order linear approximations found in analog amplifier designs. For K-type thermocouples, it achieves ninth-order accuracy.

"For more than two centuries, the thermocouple has been a critical tool for measuring extremely high temperatures, but the necessary precision and accuracy could not be achieved with the level of integration and cost-effectiveness that is required for today's demanding production-line applications," said Keith Pazul, vice president of Microchip's mixed-signal linear business unit.

The MCP9604 is designed for applications in chemical and food processing, manufacturing process control, medical and HVAC equipment, and refrigerated or cryogenic environments. Microchip states the integrated design can replace up to 15 discrete components.

The device is available in tape-in-reel or rail configurations, priced at $10.56 each in 10,000-unit quantities. It comes packaged in a 24-pin 5x5 Land Grid Array format. An evaluation board is available for $96.00.

The MCP9604 builds on Microchip's earlier single-channel thermocouple conditioning IC. The company supports the device with the EV19L27A evaluation board and accompanying software.

You May Also Be Interested In

• Deere conference call: 2027 orders up mid-single digits from last year)
• Increasing unusual option volume: ETH CSGP MUX EYPT ECL PR VIRT ROST WSC TECK COSM BRR OWL ALLY MRNA BULL CAPR
• China boosts yttrium exports to US ahead of trade talks