Maxim – Highly-integrated optical sensors measure a host of variables (MAX44005/MAX44006/ MAX44008)

Maxim Integrated Products has announced four, new digital optical sensors that advance analog integration with sensor fusion. The MAX44004/05/06/08 measure red / green / blue (RGB) light levels, ambient visible light (ALS), proximity to the sensor, ambient infrared (IR) levels, and temperature.

As many as seven sensors are integrated into one compact optical package. The sensors provide robust and repeatable measurements and the MAX44005/MAX44006/ MAX44008 all consume an industry-low 20µA each. The high integration reduces system cost, eliminates several external components, and greatly simplifies design. These optical sensors can be used in a wide variety of applications such as smartphones, tablets, portable consumer devices, displays, digital light management, security systems, and medical devices, says the company.

“There is a progression of trends toward a world where everything is connected, where sensors become pervasive and technology virtually disappears,” said Chae Lee, senior vice president of Maxim’s Mobility Group. “Our goal is for these devices to be a natural extension of ourselves.”

Optical range: The MAX44004 is a low-power ALS that consumes only 5µA. The MAX44006/MAX44008 integrate RGB colour sensors plus an ALS (clear), an ambient IR, and temperature sensors. The MAX44005 includes an RGB colour sensor plus an ALS (clear), ambient IR, IR proximity, and temperature sensors.

Temperature range: The MAX44005/MAX44006/MAX44008 are ‘guaranteed’ over the -40C to +85C temperature range. MAX44004 is ‘guaranteed’ over the -40C to +105C temperature range. All sensors are available in a 2mm x 2mm x 0.6mm optical package.