STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader, has unveiled a groundbreaking innovation in the field of pressure sensing with the introduction of the market’s first MEMS water/liquid-proof absolute pressure sensor. This cutting-edge sensor offers exceptional durability and longevity, making it ideal for industrial applications. With the rise of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), the need to collect data in challenging environments has become crucial for companies worldwide.
Simone Ferri, General Manager of the AMS MEMS Sub-Group at STMicroelectronics, emphasized the significance of the new waterproof MEMS pressure sensors in powering digital transformation across industries. These sensors provide the required environmental robustness and long-term availability to safeguard customers’ designs in various operational settings.
The ILPS28QSW sensor from STMicroelectronics is housed in a sealed, cylindrical, surface-mountable package. Its design features a ceramic substrate that offers exceptional resistance to liquid permeability, and a robust potting gel, proven in automotive applications, provides added protection to the internal circuitry. With an ingress-protection rating of IP58, certified according to IEC 60529 and ISO 20653, the sensor can withstand immersion in over one meter of water. Additionally, it can sustain up to 10Bar over-pressure.
The ILPS28QSW sensor provides accurate absolute pressure readings, with a precision of 0.5hPa, and offers selectable full-scale ranges of 260-1260hPa and 260-4060hPa. It operates efficiently within a wide temperature range of -40°C to 105°C. These exceptional accuracy and environmental robustness characteristics make the sensor suitable for a range of applications, including gas and water metering equipment, weather monitors, air-conditioning smart filters, and home appliances.
An intriguing feature of STMicroelectronics’ sensors is the Qvar® electrostatic-charge sensing channel. Developed as a proprietary technology, Qvar enables the detection and measurement of electrostatic charges in electronic devices. Integrated into the ILPS28QSW sensor, this technology allows developers to create additional value by incorporating features like liquid leakage detection. By combining the pressure signal with the Qvar electrostatic-charge sensing capability, the sensor becomes capable of monitoring liquid levels and detecting even the tiniest leaks in home appliances and industrial processes.
The ILPS28QSW sensor, featuring the Qvar electrostatic-charge sensing channel, offers remarkable power efficiency, with an operating current as low as 1.7µA, making it suitable for power-conscious applications. Moreover, it integrates digital features that simplify system design and management, including temperature compensation, FIFO memory, and an I2C/MIPI-I3C digital communication interface. The output data rate is also selectable, ranging from 1Hz to 200Hz.
STMicroelectronics continues to push the boundaries of sensor technology, delivering innovative solutions that cater to the evolving needs of industries. With the introduction of the industry’s first MEMS water/liquid-proof absolute pressure sensor and the incorporation of the Qvar electrostatic-charge sensing channel, STMicroelectronics solidifies its position as a leader in semiconductor solutions, driving digital transformation across a wide range of applications and sectors.
