Evaluate Rugged 3D Interface and Weigh Scale with Maxim's Smart Force Sensor

Maxim Integrated's low power MAXREFDES82# reference design quickly calculates force and center of mass.

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May 23, 2016, 09:00 ET

SAN JOSE, Calif., May 23, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Design engineers can now rapidly evaluate and deploy new human-machine interface (HMI) devices using the MAXREFDES82# smart force sensor reference design from Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. (NASDAQ: MXIM).

More information about MAXREFDES82#: http://bit.ly/MAXREFDES82
MAXREFDES82# video: http://bit.ly/MAXREFDES82_video
MAXREFDES82# image: http://bit.ly/MAXREFDES82_image

Typical weigh scales provide one dimension of information, downward force. The MAXREFDES82# reference design provides both downward force and center of mass, by collecting responses from four load cells using the MAX11254, a 24-bit, 6-channel analog-to-digital converter (ADC). This unique configuration, enabled by the highly integrated 24-bit ADC, provides second and third dimensions of information about whatever object presses upon it.

Key Advantages

Fast: 64ksps provides real time operation
Rugged: Interface requires no special glass or material, making it ideal for industrial environments
High precision: Accurate measurements of weight and center of mass up to 780g
Low power: Less than 50mA consumed during normal operation

Commentary

"Maxim's smart force sensor reference design is a new concept, operating as both a weigh scale and 3D touch interface in rugged environments," said David Andeen, Director of Reference Designs at Maxim Integrated. "MAXREFDES82# has a unique combination of a multi-channel, high resolution ADC with integrated programmable gain amplifiers and low power consumption, giving our customers speed and flexibility when designing industrial systems."

Availability and Pricing

The MAXREFDES82# reference design is available for $99 at Maxim's website and select franchised distributors. Hardware and firmware design files, as well as test data, are provided free and available online.
For information on other reference designs, visit http://bit.ly/ReferenceDesigns.

About Maxim Integrated
Maxim is bringing new levels of analog integration to automotive, cloud data center, mobile consumer, and industrial applications. We're making technology smaller, smarter, and more energy efficient, so that our customers can meet the demands of an integrated world. Learn more at http://www.maximintegrated.com.