Maxim announces two LiDAR ICs at Embedded World

The manufacturer is claiming these ICs represent a twofold increase of bandwidth and, at 128, an additional 32 channels over the nearest competitor in the same size module. The Max40026 is provided in a TDFN package size of 4mm² while the 40660/1 come in a 9mm² TDFN package.

Maxim says the devices enable increases of 10mph for autonomous driving systems at highway speeds.

These improvements are designed to provide designers with higher image quality, allowing the sensors to more accurately measure the environment.

The Max40660 boasts a bandwidth of 490MHz with 0.5pF input capacitance and 25kΩ transimpedance and a 2.1pA/√Hz input-referred noise density. The Max40661 has a typical bandwidth of 160MHz with 10pF input capacitance.

The Max40026 additionally features a 10ps propagation delay dispersion for the detection of fixed and moving objects.

These ICs meet the automotive-grade AEC-Q100 qualification, enhanced electrostatic discharge (ESD) performance and failure modes, effects and diagnostic analysis (FMEDA) to support ISO 26262 certification at the system level.

Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensors are one of the key components in ADAS systems, using pulses to measure the range and distance between the vehicle and other objects in the environment.

Veronique Rozan, executive director of business management, core automotive and special projects at Maxim Integrated says “Advancements in LiDAR-based solutions will support greater driver awareness and safety from next-generation automotive navigation systems.”