Programmable Hall-Effect Sensor Family for Rotational or Linear Position Detection based on 3D HAL Technology

The HAL 37xy family is the second sensor generation using Micronas’ proprietary 3D HAL technology. As the entry‑level device within the 3D position sensor family it offers a cost‑efficient solution for many applications. HAC 37xy features integrated capacitors for improved electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) and PCB‑less applications and is available in the TO92UF package. HAR 37xy is the dual‑die version and is available in the same SOIC8 package as HAL 37xy; each dual‑die sensor provides true redundancy by stacking two independent dies in one package so both dies sense the same magnetic field and generate synchronous outputs.

The sensors include two vertical and one horizontal Hall plate with spinning‑current offset compensation for detection of the X, Y and Z magnetic field components. Operation with magnetic fields down to ±20 mT is possible. HAL 3715, HAL 372x, HAR 372x and HAC 372x provide a linear, ratiometric analog output with integrated wirebreak detection and work with pull‑up or pull‑down resistors. HAL 373x offers digital output formats such as PWM and SENT SAEJ2716 rev. 2010 (customer‑programmable), while HAR 379x and HAC 373x support PWM and SENT SAEJ2716 rev. 4. On‑chip signal processing calculates an angle from two of the magnetic field components and converts this value into the selected output signal (ratiometric linear analog, PWM or SENT).

The signal path consists of two channels (CH1 and CH2); depending on the product variant, two of the three magnetic components are routed to CH1 and CH2. An arbitrarily programmable stepwise linear characteristic enables output linearization, and major characteristics can be adjusted to the magnetic circuit by programming the non‑volatile memory. The sensor exhibits excellent drift performance over the specified temperature range, resulting in high accuracy for angular and linear measurements. Spinning‑current offset compensation minimizes errors due to supply‑voltage and temperature variations or external package stress. The sensors can be used for 0° to 360° angle measurements (end‑of‑shaft and through‑shaft setups) as well as robust linear position detection.

HAL 37xy devices contain advanced on‑board diagnostic features that enhance fail‑safe detection. In‑system calibration can be used by the system designer to optimize performance for a specific application; calibration information is stored in the on‑chip EEPROM. The HAL 37xy family is programmable by modulating the output voltage - no additional programming pin is needed. Devices are designed for automotive and industrial applications and operate in an ambient temperature range of −40 °C to +150 °C. Packaging options include a very small four‑pin leaded TO92UP, the TO92UF with integrated capacitors, and SOIC8 for single‑ and dual‑die versions. HAC 37xy integrates up to two capacitors together with the sensor chip; with these integrated capacitors HAC 37xy meets stringent system‑level ESD and EMC requirements and can eliminate the need for a PCB, reducing total system size and cost. The sensors are defined as SEooC ASIL B‑ready according to ISO 26262.

License Note:
HAL 37xy, HAR 37xy, and HAC 37xy use licenses of Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS.