Microchip Technology Inc. (Chandler, AZ) announced its new TC670 predictive fan failure integrated circuit. A single resistor divider is adequate for setting the RPM alarm level and implementing predictive fan failure without the need for software. The space-saving SOT-23 package has the ability to detect the critical fan speed of two-wire and three-wire fans and provide thermal failure protection in temperature-sensitive equipment.
The device is able to predict fan failure by sensing fan revolutions and asserting a logic-low alert signal whenever the fan speed falls below a user-programmable trip point. The TC670 has a pin for clearing the alert signal, making it ideal for interfacing with microcontrollers. Thermal protection is ensured by providing the opportunity to replace the fan before any electro-mechanical problem compromises the system's performance and reliability.
Small size and a low operating current (90A typical) make the TC670 ideal for space and power-critical systems. The TC670 also features high RPM detection accuracy as well as the ability to monitor multiple fans in parallel. Applications for the TC670 device include telecom and networking equipment, power supplies, instrumentation, data storage equipment, notebooks and servers, industrial control, and general-purpose fan-fault detection.
Pricing in 1,000-unit quantities is $0.96 each for the TC670 (six-lead, SOT-23 package). Samples and volume production are now available.
