Silicon Timing Device Suits Use in Intervalometers
Linear Technology has announced the LTC6991, a simple and accurate low-frequency clock specifically designed for long-duration timing applications. The LTC6991 is the latest part in the Timerblox range of versatile silicon timing devices, in which an accurate programmable oscillator is combined with precision circuitry and logic. An wide programmable frequency range allows the clock to operate with a period from 1ms to 9.5 hours.
This makes the LTC6991 useful for intervalometers, watchdog timers and periodic wake-up timers with minimal components and effort. The LTC6991 is simply programmed, using one to three resistors, with a maximum frequency error that is guaranteed to be less than 1.5 per cent. The LTC6991 offers glitch-free, first-cycle accurate start-up within 500us of power. A reset function is available to truncate the output pulse and hold the output in a high or low state. The polarity of the reset input and the output signal can be configured for active-low or active-high operation.
In addition, the output frequency of the LTC6991 can be dynamically controlled via a separate control voltage. Timerblox devices are solid state and can be operated under high-acceleration, vibration and temperature extremes. No timing capacitors, no crystals, no microcontroller and no programming are required. They offer higher accuracy, stability and lower power consumption than typical resistor/capacitor-based oscillators. The 20mA source-and-sink capability enables direct driving of opto-isolators for electrical isolation.
Fully specified over the temperature range of -40C to 125C, the Timerblox parts are suitable for demanding automotive and industrial environments, where many oscillators and microcontrollers are unable to operate. The small SOT23 footprint allows each timing device to be placed at the point of use, without routing signals over long distances, providing a suitable timer for space-limited applications such as handheld and portable devices. The LTC6991 is now available with prices starting at USD1.35 (GBP0.84) each in 1,000-piece quantities.
This makes the LTC6991 useful for intervalometers, watchdog timers and periodic wake-up timers with minimal components and effort. The LTC6991 is simply programmed, using one to three resistors, with a maximum frequency error that is guaranteed to be less than 1.5 per cent. The LTC6991 offers glitch-free, first-cycle accurate start-up within 500us of power. A reset function is available to truncate the output pulse and hold the output in a high or low state. The polarity of the reset input and the output signal can be configured for active-low or active-high operation.
In addition, the output frequency of the LTC6991 can be dynamically controlled via a separate control voltage. Timerblox devices are solid state and can be operated under high-acceleration, vibration and temperature extremes. No timing capacitors, no crystals, no microcontroller and no programming are required. They offer higher accuracy, stability and lower power consumption than typical resistor/capacitor-based oscillators. The 20mA source-and-sink capability enables direct driving of opto-isolators for electrical isolation.
Fully specified over the temperature range of -40C to 125C, the Timerblox parts are suitable for demanding automotive and industrial environments, where many oscillators and microcontrollers are unable to operate. The small SOT23 footprint allows each timing device to be placed at the point of use, without routing signals over long distances, providing a suitable timer for space-limited applications such as handheld and portable devices. The LTC6991 is now available with prices starting at USD1.35 (GBP0.84) each in 1,000-piece quantities.
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