Plessey Releases New EPIC-Based Sensor

By DE Editors

Plessey Semiconductors has the PS25451, an ultra-low cost version of its EPIC sensor that provides remote sensing for high-volume consumer markets. A new electrode design has been devised to replace the expensive titanium dioxide electrodes currently used for the higher-end, medical applications of EPIC technology. 
 
The PS25451 is an ultra-high impedance, non-contact, solid state electric potential sensor that can be used for a variety of consumer electronic devices such as proximity switching of lighting,  gesture-based remote control of interactive toys, computer games, TVs,  monitors, other appliances and presence detection for security/alarm systems. 
 
The EPIC sensor works by measuring tiny changes in an electric field in a similar way to a magnetometer detecting changes in a magnetic field,  even at a distance and through clothing. This enables it to be used for security motion sensors and non-contact electrical switches, as well as medical applications detecting heart beats, nerve and muscle activity either by dry contact (i.e., no gels required) or contactless.

Production pricing for the PS25451 is less than $1 in volumes above 50,000. It is supplied in a custom 3D package with exposed pins for surface mount assembly and measures 10mm x 10mm x 2mm, which is also pin compatible with the existing PS25401 EPIC sensor.

For more information, visit Plessey Semiconductors.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.