Microchip’s low-power, high-accuracy instrumentation amplifier offers on-chip calibration for enhanced performance

CHANDLER, USA: Microchip Technology Inc. announced its first instrumentation amplifier, the MCP6N11. The new instrumentation amp features Microchip’s unique mCal technology, which is an on-chip calibration circuit that enables low initial offset voltage and a means to control offset drift, which results in higher accuracy across time and temperature.

The MCP6N11’s low-power CMOS process technology enables low power, while providing a gain bandwidth product of 500 kHz, and it features a hardware shutdown pin for even more power savings. The device’s low, 1.8V operation allows two 1.5V batteries to be drained beyond typical use, and its rail-to-rail input and output operation enables full-range use, even in low-supply conditions. The MCP6N11 instrumentation amp is ideal for applications in the consumer, industrial and medical markets, such as in signal and sensor conditioning, and instrumentation.

Many applications in these markets require high-accuracy, low-power and low-voltage performance, and the MCP6N11 meets those needs. The device’s mCal technology provides a highly accurate way to minimize drift over time and temperature. Additionally, the device’s low-power operation/shutdown requires less current for the given speed and performance, which extends battery life and leads to less self-heating. The MCP6N11’s low-voltage operation, with rail-to-rail input and output, enables a greater dynamic range, which improves performance across the entire operating-voltage range.

“This device provides an innovative solution for signal-conditioning applications that require great performance at a competitive price point,” said Bryan J. Liddiard, VP of marketing with Microchip’s Analog and Interface Products Division. “The use of mCal technology within this product demonstrates Microchip’s commitment to innovation, and provides a distinct competitive advantage for our customers.”