First controller with LCD driver optimised for data loggers
The ML630Q464 and 466 are the first ICs in the industry to integrate all major functions required for data logging such as USB, high-speed clock generation, LCD driver, high-accuracy RC-oscillation analogue to digital converter (ADC), acquisition of temperature, humidity and acceleration data, data display, and PDF file generation on a single chip. This reduces board space by 30%,
In recent years rising concerns about the safety and security of foods and medicines have expanded the use of logistics systems to maintain cold temperatures (cold chain) without interruption, from production to transportation and consumption, particularly for perishables and pharmaceuticals. Consequently, in the logistics industry it will be necessary to manage the transportation environment that affects package quality – namely temperature, humidity, and shock/vibration. This is expected to increase demand for management tools such as data loggers by more than 10% per year.
For data loggers, which are typically attached to packages and in many cases disposable, it is important to reduce both size and cost by using smaller batteries along with fewer parts. In addition, operating guidelines such as FDA regulations on cold chain and GDP require reliable recording of package conditions during transport and the output of uneditable PDF files to prevent tampering of records.
Next: Automatically generating untamperable PDFs
In response, the ML640Q464/466 provide PDF file generation and integrate key functions for USB data logging on a single chip while using LAPIS Semiconductor’s expertise in low power consumption, high noise immunity, and high performance. These controllers use an ARM Cortex M0+ 32bit CPU core to achieve high performance with low power consumption. Log data can be easily converted to PDF in about 4 seconds and operation is enabled for up to 380 days using a single coin battery. In addition, the products inherit LAPIS Semiconductor’s robust noise immunity, making it possible to achieve stable operation even under severe conditions.
The ADC provides a temperature measurement accuracy of ±0.5℃ using only a thermistor and resistor/capacitor, unlike typical temperature measurement circuits consisting of a temperature sensor, thermistor, and reference voltage generation circuit.
In addition, higher performance is achieved by using the Cortex M0+ with an optimised PDF generation program to create a single A4 page PDF file with 2,500 measurement points in roughly 4 seconds. Also, combining the customer’s AES encryption program with the built-in AES function and random number generator allows users to generate password-protected PDF files.
The USB data logger operation is roughly divided into two parts: reading and recording sensor data at specific intervals and generating a PDF file when USB connection is established at the end of use. However, standby current consumption will have a dominant effect on battery life, since most of the time the data logger is in a dormant state. The devices achieve a standby current consumption of 0.8μA by supporting four low power modes. As a result, operation for up to 380 days is achieved utilizing a single coin battery (CR2032) with just 30% the capacity of conventional batteries required for MCUs used in typical data loggers.
A reference kit supports the development of data loggers using the ML630Q46x. In addition to hardware information such as circuit diagrams and parts lists, this includes various software code for operating the USB flash memory and generating PDF files, all necessary documentation, and usage methods for power management and the high accuracy RC type A/D converter that facilitate understanding of MCU operation and accelerate customer development.
The ML630Q46x MCUs have succeeded in clearing ±30kV, far exceeding the measurement instrument limit of test voltage level 4 (±8kV indirect contact discharge) of the IEC 61000-4-2 standard. This enables stable operation even under harsh environments.
For more details see www.lapis-semi.com/en/inquiry/index.html
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