Achieved 24-bit power and data signal chain performance

Maxim, a leader in the analog mixed-signal semiconductor market, has released the 'MAXREFDES67#', an analog front-end (AFE) general-purpose input micro PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) reference design that improves measurement accuracy in industrial automation system design.

As the number of bits increases, high-resolution systems become more sensitive to noise, making it difficult to implement and maintain accuracy. The MAXREFDES67# is a 24-bit reference design that solves this problem. The MAXREFDES67# general-purpose analog input, capable of receiving four different signals, can be configured 100% by software without the need for jumpers.

The MAXREFDES67# provides a practical resolution of up to 22.3 bits with a temperature error of ±0.1% in the range of -40°C to +150°C. It reduces board space, the number of components, and costs through the Beyond-the-Rails signal chain. The general-purpose input receives four types of signals: voltage, current, resistance temperature detector (RTD), and thermocouple.

“MAXREFDES67# is the highest-performing analog reference design ever developed by Maxim. With a complete Beyond-the-Rails signal chain, it enables the entire system to handle input signals exceeding the bias voltage for each component,” said Kim Hyun-sik, President of Maxim Korea.

In addition, Maxim is putting a lot of effort into responding to Industry 4.0. As part of these efforts, Maxim partnered with Wurth Electronics Midcom to develop a compact, energy-efficient power isolation transformer that supports the credit card-sized MaximMicro PLC form factor.