Said to be the world’s first smoke-detector IC to offer low-voltage operation with programmable calibration and operating modes, the Microchip Technology RE46C190S16F.RE46C190S16F. enables the desired operating modes to be selected and calibrated during manufacturing. This simplifies smoke-detector design and manufacturing, and reduces component count and cost.
Additionally, the IC’s operating current of 8 microamperes (typical) enables up to 10 years of operation from a single Lithium battery, according to the company. Two Alkaline batteries may also be used to power the RE46C190S16F.RE46C190S16F..
Programmable calibration and selection of smoke-detector operating modes provides designers with an easy way to control smoke-detector operation, and enables a single IC to be used to design smoke detectors for different markets and regulatory requirements. This feature reduces the number of external components required, as electronic programmability allows the integration of several formerly external components into the IC, which in turn reduces costs associated with manufacturing and inventory.
Also featuring a horn driver and boost regulator the RE46C190RE46C190 smoke-detector IC is available in a 16-pin SOIC 150 mil package for $0.94 each, in 10,000-unit quantities. Samples are available today.