LDC0851EVM: High Accuracy Inductive Switch with Stacked Coils Evaluation Module

The LDC0851EVM (Evaluation Module) demonstrates the use of inductive sensing technology to accurately detect the presence of a conductive target object passing a fixed threshold. The module includes a perforated and interchangeable 4-layer PCB where both the sensing coil as well as the reference coil are stacked for reduced system size. The presence of a conductive object passing the fixed threshold is indicated by a green LED and therefore no MCU is needed. A resistive potentiometer can adjust the switching threshold easily for flexibility and quick system prototyping.

The LDC0851 is a close range inductive switch ideal for contactless and robust applications such as presence detection, event counting, and simple buttons. The switch is triggered when a conductive object comes within close proximity of the sensing coil. Hysteresis is included to ensure a reliable switching threshold immune to mechanical vibration. The differential implementation prevents false triggering over environmental factors such as temperature variation or humidity effects. Inductive sensing technology provides reliable and accurate sensing even in the presence of dirt, oil, or moisture making it ideal for use in harsh or dirty environments. The solid state switching eliminates the failures due to reed, mechanical, or contact switching. Unlike competitive products, the LDC0851 does not require magnets, nor is it affected by DC magnetic fields.