NXP Semiconductors MPX2100A

Overview

MPX2100A from Freescale Semiconductor is an absolute-pressure silicon piezoresistive sensor with on-chip temperature compensation and laser-trimmed calibration, delivering 40 mV full-scale output at 10 V supply across 0–100 kPa range, ±0.25% linearity (end-point method), and operation from –40°C to +125°C - used in barometric sensing and vacuum-referenced pressure monitoring.

For engineers reviewing the MPX2100A datasheet, MPX2100A pinout, MPX2100A application, or MPX2100A equivalent, key selection criteria include absolute pressure reference, ratiometric output behavior, unibody package compatibility with ported mounting, and offset stability under thermal cycling per MIL-STD-883 test conditions.

Technical Context

The MPX2100A integrates a monolithic silicon diaphragm with embedded strain gauges and thin-film resistor networks for direct voltage transduction. Its internal circuitry includes laser-trimmed span/offset calibration and passive temperature compensation circuitry optimized for 0°C to +85°C operation.

It operates as a 4-pin, ratiometric analog sensor: output voltage scales linearly with applied pressure and supply voltage, with ground-referenced differential output (±VOUT) and no internal signal conditioning or digital interface. The absolute configuration uses an internal vacuum reference cavity sealed beneath the stainless steel cap.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPX2100A uses the CASE 344-15 unibody ceramic package (stainless steel cap, silicone gel isolation, 4-pin lead frame). Dimensions: 15.11 × 13.06 × 5.08 mm (L × W × H).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar absolute pressure sensing applications.

Compared with MPX2100AP, the MPX2100A offers identical electrical specs but requires external gasket sealing; versus MPX5100, it trades higher offset tolerance and narrower supply range for proven field reliability and lower unit cost in established platforms.

Availability

MPX2100A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for barometric monitoring, medical diagnostics, and vacuum system integrity verification requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for MPX2100A includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Freescale Semiconductor (now part of NXP Semiconductors since 2015) was a leading designer of analog and mixed-signal ICs for automotive, industrial, and consumer applications.

The MPX2100 series was developed for high-accuracy, low-drift absolute and gauge pressure measurement in safety-critical and maintenance-free systems - emphasizing long-term stability, on-chip compensation, and robust packaging for harsh environments.

FAQ

What is the pressure reference type of the MPX2100A?

MPX2100A is an absolute pressure sensor with a hermetically sealed internal vacuum reference cavity beneath its stainless steel cap. This means its output corresponds to pressure relative to perfect vacuum, not ambient atmospheric pressure - making it suitable for barometric and sealed-system vacuum monitoring where a fixed zero-reference is required. The MPX2100A does not require external vacuum connections or venting.

Does the MPX2100A require external signal conditioning?

No, MPX2100A delivers a fully conditioned, temperature-compensated, and laser-calibrated analog output. It provides a ratiometric differential voltage (±VOUT) directly proportional to applied pressure, eliminating the need for external amplifiers, ADC reference buffers, or temperature-sensing circuits in most implementations. Signal conditioning is performed on-die via thin-film resistor networks and passive compensation elements.

What is the maximum pressure the MPX2100A can withstand without damage?

The MPX2100A has a maximum pressure rating of 400 kPa (Pmax), which is four times its full-scale range of 0–100 kPa. Exceeding this limit may cause permanent mechanical deformation of the silicon diaphragm or bond wire failure. Operation beyond 100 kPa will produce nonlinear or saturated output but remains within safe operating area up to 400 kPa per Freescale's Maximum Ratings table.

Can the MPX2100A be used with supply voltages other than 10 V?

Yes - MPX2100A operates from 10 V (typical) up to 16 V DC. Its ratiometric architecture ensures output voltage scales linearly with supply voltage, so full-scale span changes proportionally (e.g., ~40 mV at 10 V → ~64 mV at 16 V). However, operation above 10 V increases self-heating, potentially introducing additional thermal error; Freescale specifies performance parameters at 10 V unless otherwise noted.

How is the pressure port oriented on the MPX2100A package?

The MPX2100A uses CASE 344-15 packaging, where the pressure port (P1 side) is identified by the stainless steel cap surface - confirmed in Freescale's Pressure (P1)/Vacuum (P2) Side Identification Table. The silicone gel-isolated die resides beneath this cap, and pressure must be applied to this side. The opposite side (epoxy-sealed lead frame) is the vacuum reference (P2) and must remain unvented and unexposed to pressure.