Maxim's Low-Power 'MAXREFDES82#', Fast and Accurate Measurement of Weight and Center of Gravity

Maxim Integrated Products Korea (CEO Kim Hyun-sik) has announced the Smart Force sensor reference design 'MAXREFDES82#'. Design engineers can use MAXREFDES82# to quickly evaluate and leverage new Human Machine Interface (HMI) devices.

Conventional measuring instruments provide only one-dimensional information such as gravitational magnitude. In contrast, Maxim's MAXREFDES82# reference design uses four load sensors with a 24-bit 6-channel Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) 'MAX11254' to provide not only weight information but also data on the center of gravity. This unique configuration utilizing a highly integrated 24-bit ADC enables measurement of two- and three-dimensional information for all objects.



The Maxim MAXREFDES82# operates in real-time at 64ksps speed and consumes less than 50mA of power during normal operation. It accurately measures weight and center of gravity up to 780g, and operates with a robust interface without requiring special glass or materials, making it ideal for industrial environments.

David Andeen, Director of Reference Design at Maxim Integrated, states, "Maxim's Smart Force sensor reference design is a new concept that performs both measuring instrument and 3D touch interface functions even in irregular environments," and adds, "The MAXREFDES82# features a unique combination of a highly integrated ADC with multi-channel, low-power, and integrated programmable gain amplifier characteristics, which enhances speed and flexibility in industrial system design."

The MAXREFDES82# is available for purchase at $99 on the Maxim website and through distributors. Test data, hardware and firmware design files are provided free online.

Detailed information about the MAXREFDES82#, demonstration videos, and information about other Maxim reference designs can be found on the Maxim website.