Infineon TLE4961-3M Hall-Effect Latch: Datasheet, Application Circuit, and Replacement Guide
The Infineon TLE4961-3M is a high-precision, reverse-polarity protected Hall-effect latch designed for robust automotive and industrial applications. This sensor IC provides a digital output signal that switches in response to changes in magnetic flux density, making it an ideal solution for position and speed sensing tasks, such as in camshaft and crankshaft detection, window lifters, and seat positioning systems.
Datasheet Overview: Key Specifications
The TLE4961-3M is characterized by its high magnetic sensitivity and outstanding temperature stability, ensuring reliable performance across a wide operating temperature range from -40°C to 170°C. Key parameters from its datasheet include:
Supply Voltage (VS): 3.0 V to 32 V, with a survival range up to 40 V.
Output Type: Digital current sink (open-drain).
Magnetic Switching Points: Typical operate point (BOP) at 2.5 mT and release point (BRP) at -2.5 mT, providing a well-defined hysteresis.
Reverse Voltage Protection: Up to -32 V, a critical feature for automotive environments.
Ultra-Low Power Consumption: Typically 2.5 mA, suitable for battery-sensitive applications.
Standard Application Circuit
Implementing the TLE4961-3M is straightforward. A typical application circuit requires only a few external components for stable operation:
1. Power Supply Decoupling: A decoupling capacitor (e.g., 100 nF) placed as close as possible to the VS pin is essential to suppress noise and voltage spikes on the supply line.
2. Pull-up Resistor: The open-drain output requires an external pull-up resistor (typically 1 kΩ to 10 kΩ) connected to a supply voltage. This voltage can be different from the sensor's VS, allowing for level shifting (e.g., output to a 5V or 3.3V microcontroller).

3. Load Connection: The switched load (e.g., an MCU input or a logic circuit) is connected between the output pin and the pull-up resistor.
The built-in protection mechanisms, including reverse voltage and overvoltage clamps, significantly reduce the need for complex external protection circuitry.
Replacement and Cross-Reference Guide
When replacing the TLE4961-3M or selecting an alternative, it is crucial to verify several parameters to ensure compatibility and system integrity.
Direct Replacements: Infineon's own TLE496x family (e.g., TLE4964-xM) may offer similar packages and functionalities but always check the magnetic switching points.
Key Considerations for Replacement:
Package Type (PG-SSO-3-6): Ensure the mechanical footprint matches.
Switching Behavior (Latch vs. Switch): Confirm the alternative is a latch, not a unipolar or omnipolar switch.
Magnetic Sensitivity: The operate and release points must be compatible with your system's magnet strength and air gap.
Protection Features: Verify the presence of reverse voltage protection, which is not standard on all Hall-effect sensors.
Output Configuration: Must be an open-drain or open-collector output.
Always consult the target replacement's datasheet for absolute maximum ratings and detailed characteristics before proceeding.
ICGOODFIND: The Infineon TLE4961-3M stands out as an industry-proven, highly reliable Hall-effect latch renowned for its robustness in harsh electrical and environmental conditions. Its integration of critical protection features minimizes external component count, simplifying design and enhancing system reliability. For engineers designing automotive or industrial systems requiring precise magnetic position sensing, the TLE4961-3M represents a top-tier solution where failure is not an option.
Keywords: Hall-Effect Latch, Reverse Voltage Protection, Magnetic Switching Points, Automotive Sensor, Open-Drain Output.
