Cost-effective compass sensor for mobile devices by MagnaChip

Korea-based MagnaChip semiconductor has launched a new e-compass sensor MXG1300 made using low noise 0.18 micron technology. MXG1300 is suggested for designing e-compass feature in mobile phones, tablets and other such portable devices.

e-compass sensor inside a mobile phone or a tablet helps in maintaining alignment of the display to the user's orientation. E-compass plays important role in using mobile applications such as games and augmented reality. MagnaChip is making this MEMS sensor by using its own high-volume 8-inch wafer manufacturing capability.

The MXG1300 e-Compass comes with Android OS driver, compass algorithms, and magnetic field scanning support for quick development of devices. MXG1300 offer field scanning support to determine an optimum location for the MXG1300 chip placement within a cellphone. MagnaChip claims its sensor capable of withstanding magnetic interference from a vibration motor and speakers. Additional features include low noise mixed signal and analog process technology and a 16-bit sigma-delta ADC (analog-digital converter).

MXG1300 features a low-power mode to reduce operating current by 40%, in situations where it is possible to operate the device at a slower, but acceptable, heading speed. This mode creates wider power management flexibility by extending the battery life of mobile devices, says MagnaChip.

“We believe the timing is right to launch the MXG1300 e-Compass sensor series as the market is demanding a more cost effective solution,” said YJ Kim, Executive Vice President and General Manager of MagnaChip’s Display Solutions Division. “With the advantage of our own proprietary 0.18 micron process technology and available capacity at our cost competitive fab, MagnaChip will continue to provide the consumer with constantly evolving e-Compass solutions, a key element of MagnaChip’s expanding technology and product roadmap.”

MXG1300 is now sampling, the production volumes are expected in Q3 2013.