Holt validates latest discrete-to-digital sensor with built-in lightning protection

Holt Integrated Circuits today announced compliance of its latest discrete-to-digital sensor, HI-8429, with the lightning requirements of RTCA/DO-160G, Section 22, Level 3 Pin Injection Test Waveform Set A (3 & 4), Set B (3 & 5A) and Set Z (3 & 5B), using no additional external components. Validation was carried out by an independent ISO accredited lab using industry standard procedures and practices. A test report from D.L.S. Electronic Systems, Inc. is available.

The RTCA/DO-160G specification provides a standardized test methodology which is accepted in the avionics industry as the gold standard for environmental testing of airborne equipment. Compliance ensures Holt devices operate reliably in a broad variety of avionics applications with tough environmental requirements.

The HI-8429 is an 8-channel discrete-to-digital sensor with programmable sense channels and internal lightning protection. The sense input thresholds are programmable from 2V to 12V via a 10MHz SPI bus. The device is compliant with Airbus ABD0100H specification and has inputs individually configurable as either GND/Open or Supply/Open (28V/Open). An optional debounce circuit ensures sensor outputs respond correctly to mechanical sensor inputs. In addition, a sensor output interrupt pin alerts the system to a change in sensor input, avoiding constant polling via SPI to check status.

“Integration of lightning protection provides our customers with significant board space saving, especially on a multi-channel product which requires separate protection on individual inputs,” said Anthony Murray, Director of Marketing Communications at Holt. “This robust DO-254 certifiable device meets the challenges for next generation composite aircraft”.