MLX91377 Hall Sensor: High‑Linearity, Thermal‑Stable, ASIL‑Ready for Automotive Safety

Melexis introduces the MLX91377, a Hall‑effect sensor IC engineered for safety‑critical automotive applications such as electric power‑assisted steering (EPAS). Operating at ambient temperatures up to 160 °C, the sensor delivers exceptional linearity, low offset, and minimal sensitivity drift, ensuring precise torque measurement for both conventional and autonomous driving systems.

Designed as a Safety Element Out of Context (SEooC), the MLX91377 meets ISO 26262 requirements and is qualified to AEC Q‑100 Grade 0. It supports ASIL‑C safety in digital mode (SENT or SPC) and ASIL‑B in analog mode, providing per‑die failure detection and a safe‑state response to prevent unintended vehicle behavior. The dual‑die TSSOP‑16 package further enhances reliability by offering two fully redundant dies, ideal for steering, braking, and other safety‑critical functions.

MLX91377 Block diagram (Source: Melexis)

Beyond safety applications, the MLX91377 excels in a broad range of automotive and industrial contactless position‑sensing tasks—including steering torque, acceleration, brake and clutch pedal sensors, absolute linear position, float‑level, non‑contact potentiometers, and small‑angle or small‑stroke sensors.

The sensor’s programmable measurement range and multi‑point calibration give designers exceptional flexibility, while multiple output protocols allow a single IC to serve diverse roles, reducing requalification effort and cost. The Short PWM Code (SPC) protocol captures and transmits data on trigger pulses, enabling up to four MLX91377 units to synchronize at 2 kHz. This deterministic latency supports simultaneous magnetic measurements with high control‑loop speeds, delivering rapid response with minimal filtering.

Equipped with a 48‑bit programmable identification number, the MLX91377 is available in a dual‑die, fully redundant TSSOP‑16 package, combining robust safety, thermal stability, and versatile performance in a compact form factor.