Microchip Technology has introduced the MCP9604, a four-channel I2C thermocouple conditioning integrated circuit designed for precision temperature measurement in production-line applications. The device addresses thermal measurement requirements in chemical and food processing, manufacturing process control, medical and HVAC equipment, and refrigerated or cryogenic environments.
The MCP9604 provides ± 1.5°C accuracy through a single-chip solution that consolidates thermocouple conditioning functions previously requiring discrete components or multiple chips. This integration approach reduces potential error sources and simplifies system design complexity compared to traditional implementations.
The device achieves measurement precision by implementing higher-order NIST ITS-90 equations rather than single-order linear approximations used in analog amplifier designs. For K-type thermocouples, the MCP9604 delivers ninth-order accuracy calculations within an integrated chip containing ADCs, cold junction compensation temperature sensors, amplifiers, and signal processing components.
By eliminating external components, the MCP9604 simplifies PCB design and reduces the bill of materials costs. The integrated approach can eliminate weeks of unit-by-unit in-line validation and calibration procedures that discrete thermocouple measurement solutions typically require before data reporting to host systems.
The device supports eight common thermocouple types, including J and K options, with operational capability at temperatures as low as -200°C. The MCP9604 operates across a temperature range from -200°C to +1372°C, accommodating diverse industrial applications. I2C communication protocol enables integration with microcontrollers and digital systems.
The MCP9604 extends Microchip’s thermocouple conditioning product line, building on their single-channel conditioning IC technology. The four-channel device delivers digital temperature readings with precision levels designed for I2C thermocouple conditioning applications.
Development support includes the EV19L27A evaluation board, which connects to four thermocouples and includes a microcontroller for host system functions and thermocouple plotting. Software for the evaluation board is available for download from the MCP9604 product pages.
The MCP9604 is available in tape-in-reel (MCP9604T-E/3YW) or rail (MCP9604-E/3YW) configurations, priced at $10.56 each in 10,000-unit quantities. The device uses a 24-pin 5×5 Land Grid Array package. The EV19L27A evaluation board is priced at $96.00.
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