Alps Electric Released Highly Reliable Magnetic Sensor Switching Output Type HGD Series Developed

Alps Electric (Pink Sheet:APELY) has completed development of the HGD Series of Highly Reliable Switching Output Type Magnetic Sensors, which detect the opening and closing of the covers of mobile telephones and notebook PCs, etc. Sample shipments are to commence in early March. Recently, most mobile telephones are of the folding type, with an increasing trend toward more compact and thin models. In addition, more complex construction designs such as swiveling liquid crystal display screens are being made continuously in an effort to accommodate a diversity of potential applications. The shape and construction of mobile telephones calls for parts that are not just small and compact, but that cater to a high degree of engineering flexibility. This product uses a magnetic sensor with Highly Reliable Magnetic Elements, which can detect the opening and closing of folding mechanisms as well as doors and lids. These Highly Reliable Magnetic Elements can sense over a wider area and with higher reliability compared to other magnetic elements. By association the field of magnetic sensors is also extended contributing to engineering flexibility in product design. In addition, magnetic field sensing is available in three variations. The HGD Series comes in two types: the industry’s smallest Mold Allay Package (MAP) type, on which terminals are positioned on the reverse of the component, and; the Small Outline Nonleaded (SON) type, on which terminals extend from the side of the component to realize easier mounting. The versatility provided by these two types can better accommodate a variety of product functions and designs. Furthermore, our Highly Reliable Magnetic Elements maintain high signal output in comparison with other magnetic elements. As a result, the HGD Series-mounted signal processing circuit can be restricted to an absolute minimum, contributing to reduced current consumption and the effective use of space. Principal Applications Detecting opening and closing in the folding mechanisms of mobile telephones and notebook PCs., doors and lids of refrigerators, washing machines and other goods. Planned Release Sample shipments: From March 2007 Sample price: 3.00 USD Planned monthly production: 25,000,000 units (planned for October 2007) Development: Magnetic Devices Division, Nagaoka Plant (Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture) Production: Magnetic Devices Division, Nagaoka Plant (Nagaoka City, Niigata Prefecture) Specifications Product Type: A: MAP type B: SON type Dimension: A: 1.1mm×0.9mm×0.55mm B: 2.1mm×2.1mm×0.75mm Functions: (in common with A and B) Single Polarity/ Single Output, Dual Polarity /Single Output, Dual Polarity/ Dual Output Sensitivity: (in common with A and B) Hon2.0mT and Hon3.0mT (1) Supply voltage: (in common with A and B) 2.4n to 5.5V Average current consumption: (in common with A and B) 2.0µA (1) Hon=Operating magnetic field, T= Tesla