Capacitive-based, reliable human and object detection

TI announced the launch of a family of capacitive sensor ICs that are immune to environmental noise from wireless, power supplies, lighting and motors.

The FDC2214 family enables low-cost, capacitive sensing for human and object detection in any environment. With 36 dB of noise immunity, it delivers 60x better performance than existing sensor solutions, even in noisy environments.

The FDC2214 capacitive sensor IC detects through non-conductive materials, eliminating the need to drill holes in finished products, reducing production costs without compromising aesthetics. Therefore, it helps developers reduce system costs when developing automotive, consumer, and industrial applications.

The unique narrowband architecture of the FDC2214 family eliminates unwanted noise and common environmental interference. This reduces power consumption and brings the benefits of capacitive sensing to real-world, cutting-edge applications such as display wake-up functions in appliances, automotive displays, thermostats, and consumer electronics.

Additionally, capacitive sensors can be implemented for automatic doors or gates that detect nearby objects or people to prevent collisions. Using the FDC2214 IC, designers can detect hand movements to activate soap dispensers, change a vehicle's radio for safer driving, and more.