Smallest Combo Chip for Automotive Keyless Entry From NXP
NXP Semiconductors N.V. has revealed the NCF2960, which the firm says is the world's smallest combo chip solution for automotive keyless entry with immobiliser functions.
The compact solution integrates a security transponder, micro RISC kernel, and multi-channel radio transmitter in a single package.
The NCF2960 addresses the strong demand from car OEMs for fashionable and distinctive car key designs. The chip's package size has been reduced by 44 percent compared to the previous generation.
Available in a compact 24-pin QFN package, it requires only 4mm x 4mm of board space, providing key fob manufacturers with maximum design freedom in selecting form factors and in placement of command buttons.
One of the chip's key features is its RF multi-channel capability. Rather than transmitting its signal on one frequency only, the integrated transmitter enables the signal to be transmitted on multiple frequency channels. Frequency hopping maximises the reliability of car keys in environments suffering from RF jamming. Unlike conventional devices, NXP's new NCF2960 also features stabilised output power in order to minimise the impact of varying battery voltage and temperatures.
The NCF2960 also enables cost savings due to its small PCB footprint, as well as optical inspection of solder connections rather than using complex X-ray processes. Optical inspection is made possible by the 24-pin QFN package with wettable flanks.
Drue Freeman, vice president, global automotive sales and marketing at NXP Semiconductors comments, "A key fob is the first thing a user touches before he or she gets into the car. For car OEMs, key fobs are a way of enhancing the driving experience, improving their brand image, and differentiating themselves from competitors. "
Freeman continues, "NXP is launching its second-generation single-chip combo solution, the NCF2960, integrating immobilisation, remote keyless entry (RKE) and an RF transmitter. A key aspect in the product design phase was to provide new valuable features - such as stabilised RF output power, frequency hopping and a variety of encryption options -in the smallest possible package, without any compromises on performance."
Engineering samples of the NCF2960 are now available.
