Sunnyvale, Calif. — This remote temperature monitor from Maxim Integrated Products Inc. accurately measures its own die temperature, the temperatures of two external, diode-connected transistors, and reports the temperature data via a two-wire serial interface.

For added functionality, the system monitors its own supply voltage and an external voltage such as a thermistor or an additional rail. Temperature measurement accuracy is 1°C (typical) for the remote-diode channels and the internal measure channel. The combination of high accuracy and multiple thermal/voltage measurements makes the monitor suitable for Intel Pentium 4-based notebook computers, desktop computers, and servers.

The monitor's internal architecture provides ease of use by autonomously functioning with a programmable temperature and voltage scanning profile. A fail-safe monitoring scheme does not require any programming by the system controller on power-up. A fail-safe voltage-programmable temperature limit and fail-safe output provide additional hardware protection for CPU overtemperature operating conditions. Additionally, a SMBus timeout feature enhances overall system reliability.

Packaged in the 24-Pin SSOP and 24-Pin QSOP, the MAX6617 operates
from the +3.0 V to +5.5 V supply voltage range while consuming only 1mA
of supply current. It is specified over the -40°C to +125°C temperature range.

Prices start at $1.95 for the MAX6617 (1000-up, FOB USA). Click here for the preliminary MAX6617 data sheet.

Maxim Integrated Products , 1-800-998-8800, www.Maxim-ic.com.