Smarter Packages
A growing number of companies is adding a bit of intelligence of packages. Adding even a small amount of processing power bring a number of benefits. One is that network wiring can be used. “ We want to use smarter sensors to reduce the number of wires,” krider said” By increasing intelligence on a sensor, we can combine two or three wires.” This intelligence, often an application-specific integrated circuit with a minimal amount of processing power, also makes it simpler to improve precision. The processor can analyze the input and prepare digital data so the controller is working with precise information. Adding these chips is one of the critical steps that let engineers add new functions.” For visible valve timing, we use a magnetoresisitive element with anIC integrated in the sensor, that gives you more precision. When you put the chip that does the analysis close to the source, you don’t lose as much. Typically adding intelligence does not alter the package size. There are some applications where logic devices will not fit. There are also areas where logic chips cannot be used.