The LP2 Series was designed for industries that require very steady, ultra-low-pressure sensing at an economical price. With its wide pressure range, varied output options, and flexible integration features, this series provides assurance to operations in the industrial, medical, and consumer markets.
Introducing the LP2 Series: Unpacking the Sensor
The LP2 Series is a surface-mounted piezoresistive pressure sensor module for ultra-low differential or gage measurements. It has a small footprint of about 8.76 cm2 and comprises an integrated Wheatstone bridge that anodically connects glass to a chemically etched silicon diaphragm.
It features an ASIC that calibrates the MEMS pressure sensor and a built-in Digital Signal Processor (DSP) with a 26-bit math core that runs a correction algorithm to accurately calculate pressure and temperature correction coefficients.
The sensor has dual pressure ports for higher and lower pressure inputs and castellated vias to make PCB assembly easier and solder connections more reliable.
LP2 Series. Image Credit: Merit Sensor Systems Inc.
Performance in the Field: Blending Precision and Versatility
The LP2 Series is designed to measure ultra-low pressures ranging from 150 Pa (0.6 inches of H2O) to 7000 Pa, and it provides highly accurate readings with a total error band of less than 1.5% of full scale, before reflow soldering and without autozero. This capability is crucial in applications that require low offset drift and good repeatability.
The Post Calibration Offset Correction function enables the sensor to compensate for shifts in baseline output, reducing packaging-induced stresses and reflow effects, which is especially significant in high-reliability applications.
The LP2 Series accepts a wide range of supply voltage inputs from 2.7 V to 5.5 V, allowing for flexibility across various system voltage levels.
It has various digital output topologies, including I2C and SPI, and an analog voltage output (ratiometric from 10% to 90% of the source voltage), making it suitable for several signal processing designs. The LP2 Series also includes an end-of-conversion (EOC) function that flags when a new, valid pressure reading is available.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Manufacturing
The LP2 Series uses Merit Sensor's unique Sentium® technology, a platform noted for providing superior operating temperature ranges and long-term reliability. Every LP2 pressure sensor is also conceived, built, fabricated, diced, assembled, tested, and produced at Merit Sensor's cutting-edge factory in South Jordan, Utah.
This vertical integration provides outstanding quality control and supply chain security. Being a subsidiary of Merit Medical Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: MMSI), Merit Sensor also guarantees a reliable and experienced partner.
Every product is RoHS-compliant by default, promoting ecologically conscious designs.
Market Applications
Industrial
Precise airflow and pressure measurements are essential for process optimization and energy management in industrial settings. Since it provides variable air volume (VAV) valve control and airflow monitoring, the LP2 Series is especially well-suited for HVAC systems. Its wider operational range (–40 °C to 85 °C) and reliable performance throughout a corrected temperature range (–10 °C to 60 °C) guarantee functionality even under harsh environmental conditions.
The LP2 Series can safeguard ventilation and air management systems, minimizing system failures caused by unanticipated pressure variations with its adjustable overpressure and underpressure alerts.
Medical
Medical devices require high accuracy, stability, and dependability during extended service periods. The LP2 Series offers precise low-pressure sensing for ventilators that need to precisely control air delivery to patients.
It is appropriate for dynamic respiratory applications due to its quick response time, which is made possible by a maximum startup time of 2.5 ms and a digital update rate of 5 ms.
The stability and fine resolution (up to 22 bits) of the LP2 Series are highly advantageous for diagnostic and analytical devices, enabling precise flow and pressure measurements in intricate assays. Due to its low current consumption and configurable sleep mode, the sensor is optimized for portable and battery-operated medical devices.
Consumer
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices for sleep apnea treatment in the consumer sector function by precisely regulating pressure to guarantee patient comfort and safety. The LP2 Series is an excellent choice for these applications because of its precise sensing at extremely low pressures, small size, castellated vias for sturdy PCB attachment, and versatile communication choices.
Dry Non-Corrosive Gas
Its ability to retain performance over time reduces the need for device recalibration, resulting in decreased maintenance requirements and more user satisfaction.
The LP2 Series is also designed for laboratory, environmental monitoring, and specialized industrial devices that measure pressure in dry, non-corrosive gases. The sensor is designed to withstand transient overpressure occurrences without permanent deterioration, with a static proof pressure of 2.5 times full scale and burst pressures ranging from 10 PSI (low-pressure versions) to 50 PSI (higher pressure ranges).
Highlights of the LP2 Series: Key Feature Breakdown
- Wide Pressure Range: Available in pressures ranging from 150 Pa to 7000 Pa to satisfy a variety of operational requirements
- High Accuracy: Over 1.5% FSO without the need for manual recalibration throughout the compensated range
- Digital and Analog Outputs: For simple integration, it supports analog ratiometric outputs, SPI, and I2C
- Autozero and Output Signal Averaging: Increases the stability of the signal and lowers offset errors after reflow
- End-of-Conversion (EOC) Flag: Simplifies the process of gathering sensor data by informing users of new, reliable data
- Configurable EOC and Alerts: Offers real-time operational status and pressure event alerts
- Low Power Consumption: Sleep and cyclic modes are provided for power-sensitive applications
- Easy Assembly: Designed with castellated vias for improved convenience and reliability during PCB integration
- Robust Environmental Tolerance: Fully functioning between –40 °C and 85 °C
A Smart Choice for Ultra-Low-Pressure Sensing
The LP2 Series is a highly competitive option for ultra-low-pressure sensing applications across a wide range of markets. It combines technical excellence, such as variable outputs, high precision, and environmental resilience, with affordability, making it an excellent solution for OEMs looking for durable, future-proof designs.
The LP2 Series enables developers to satisfy demanding performance requirements without sacrificing cost or integration complexity, whether utilized in consumer health devices, life-support equipment, or building automation.