ScioSense converter solutions for ultrasonic flow meters are based on our profound experience in precision time measurement by means of time-to-digital converters.
Measuring time intervals of hundreds of microseconds with picosecond resolution and picosecond stability at a current consumption as low as a few µA is a perfect fit for the task of ultrasonic flow measurement.
The various functional blocks that we integrate allow users to have a very compact design. The analog front-ends are optimized in symmetry and reciprocity. With the HV driver stage and PGA stages we offer AFE’s for gas meter applications with low amplitude.
The precision TDC core can measure multiple zero crossings within a burst for low single-shot noise. A choice of converters also includes a CPU that can do first filtering or regulation tasks, but also can be used to do the full flow calculation.
Finally, we offer variants that have such a flow firmware already integrated and allow users a fast time-to-market in their development. With the focus on an intelligent front-end we give the user full flexibility with respect to the central processor. The switch from mechanical to ultrasonic sensors is therefore significantly simplified.
Features
HV driver 17V, PGA, split burst
PGA, split burst
PGA, split burst
Low offset drift
Low offset drift
Pins for external amplifier
Pins for external amplifier
First hit detection
Application
Gas meters
Water meters with low signal amplitude
Water meters with low signal amplitude
Water & heat meters ≥ R400
Water & heat meters ≥ R400
Water & heat meters ≥ R400
Water & heat meters ≥ R400
Water & heat meters ≤ R400
TDC
No. of hits
31
31
31
31
31
31
31
3
AFE
Fire Voltage [V]
17
3.6
3.6
3.6
3.6
3.6
3.6
3.6
AFE+TDC+Sensor
Typical single shot resolution [ps]
< 500
< 50
< 50
< 50
< 50
< 50
< 50
< 100
I [µA] @ 8 Hz
19
7
13
4.5
8.5
4.5
8.5
6
CPU
32 Bit
32 Bit
32 Bit
32 Bit
32 Bit
32 Bit
32 Bit
Firmware
X
X
X
Package
QFN48
QFN48
QFN48
QFN32
QFN32
QFN40
QFN40
QFN32
As a specialist in environmental and flow sensor technology, ScioSense enables companies to use the planet’s resources more sustainably, helping to create a healthier future for all.
