Microchip Technology has introduced two capacitive-touch controllers — MTCH3380P and MTCH3240P — designed for display-free human-machine interfaces (HMIs). The devices support buttons, sliders and wheels with parallel sensing, enabling fast response times and reliable touch detection even through thick covers or when users wear gloves.
Microchip MTCH3380P and MTCH3240P capacitive-touch controllers
Key Characteristics
- Parallel sensing: 12 on-chip ADCs operating simultaneously
- MTCH3380P sensor support:
- Up to 38 sensors (self-capacitance mode)
- Up to 64 sensors (mutual-capacitance mode)
- MTCH3240P sensor support:
- Up to 24 sensors (self-capacitance mode)
- Up to 32 sensors (mutual-capacitance mode)
- High signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for reliable detection in noisy environments
- Supports touch through thick cover materials
- Works with gloved hands
- Operating temperature: up to 105°C
- Functional safety: IEC/UL 60730 Class B certification
- First turnkey controllers in Microchip’s portfolio with parallel sensing for buttons, sliders and wheels
Parallel acquisition of multiple sensors reduces the increase in acquisition time that typically occurs when the number of sensors grows, helping maintain fast and responsive touch performance in complex display-free interfaces.
Target Applications
- Home appliances (ovens, cooktops, refrigerators, washing machines)
- Outdoor equipment (parking meters, kiosks, EV chargers)
- Industrial HMIs
- Cold-weather and harsh-environment interfaces
Source: Electronics For You