NXP Semiconductors MPX4400A

Overview

MPX4400A from Freescale Semiconductor is an integrated silicon absolute pressure sensor designed for barometric and altimeter applications, delivering a ratiometric 0.2–4.8 V analog output over a 15–115 kPa range, with ±1.5% full-scale accuracy from 0°C to 85°C, and operating across –40°C to +125°C.

For engineers reviewing the MPX4400A datasheet, MPX4400A pinout, MPX4400A application, or MPX4400A equivalent, this sensor is selected for precision atmospheric pressure sensing in aviation altimeters, weather stations, and engine control systems where temperature-compensated, factory-calibrated analog output is required without external signal conditioning.

Technical Context

The MPX4400A integrates a piezoresistive silicon sensing element with on-chip bipolar op-amp circuitry and thin-film resistor networks to provide temperature compensation, gain staging, and offset correction. It operates ratiometrically with a 4.85–5.35 V supply and requires no external calibration components.

Its sealed vacuum reference enables true absolute pressure measurement, and its fluorosilicone gel die coating ensures compatibility with dry air media while protecting wire bonds and die surface. The device exhibits 1.0 ms response time and ±0.5%VFSS offset stability after 1000-hour pulsed pressure/temperature cycling.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPX4400A uses the unibody epoxy package (Case 867-08), 10.54 × 10.54 × 5.38 mm, with stainless steel cap identifying the pressure (P1) side. Pins 4, 5, and 6 are No Connects.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPX4115A and MPX5114A, the MPX4400A provides guaranteed –40°C to +125°C operation and tighter 0–85°C accuracy, making it the preferred choice for automotive, aerospace, and industrial deployments requiring long-term stability across extreme thermal cycles.

Availability

MPX4400A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aviation altimeters, weather reporting devices, and engine control units requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing from original manufacturer channels.

Supply support for MPX4400A 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) is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in embedded processing, sensors, and analog solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The MPX4400A belongs to Freescale's integrated pressure sensor product line, engineered specifically for high-reliability absolute pressure measurement in altimeter, barometer, and engine management systems where on-chip signal conditioning and temperature compensation eliminate external circuitry.

FAQ

What is the pressure media compatibility of the MPX4400A?

The MPX4400A is qualified for use with dry air as the pressure media. Its fluorosilicone gel die coating isolates the sensing element while transmitting pressure, but exposure to liquids, solvents, or corrosive gases may degrade long-term performance. Freescale explicitly states that media other than dry air may adversely affect reliability - consult NXP's application engineering team before deploying MPX4400A in non-dry-air environments.

Does the MPX4400A require external calibration or trimming?

No, the MPX4400A is fully factory-calibrated and temperature-compensated. Its transfer function - VOUT = VS × (0.009 × P − 0.095) - is guaranteed across the full 15–115 kPa range and 0–85°C temperature span. No external resistors, thermistors, or software calibration routines are needed to achieve specified ±1.5% VFSS accuracy, making MPX4400A a drop-in analog solution for pressure-sensing subsystems.

What decoupling is required for stable operation of the MPX4400A?

The MPX4400A requires a minimum decoupling network at its VCC pin: a 1.0 μF bulk capacitor and a 0.01 μF ceramic capacitor placed as close as possible to the device. Freescale's Figure 3 specifies this configuration to suppress supply noise and meet electrical specifications. Omitting either capacitor risks increased output noise, reduced accuracy, or instability - especially critical in high-resolution ADC interfacing where MPX4400A's 46 mV/kPa sensitivity demands clean excitation.

Can the MPX4400A be used for differential or gauge pressure measurement?

No, the MPX4400A is strictly an absolute pressure sensor with a sealed vacuum reference cavity. Its P1 port connects to ambient pressure, while P2 is permanently sealed at vacuum - it cannot measure differential (P1 − P2) or gauge (P1 − atmospheric) pressure. Attempting to apply pressure to both ports or venting the vacuum reference will damage the device or invalidate calibration. For differential applications, consider NXP's MPXV7025DP or MPXV5004DP instead of MPX4400A.

What is the warm-up time specification for the MPX4400A?

The MPX4400A has a maximum warm-up time of 20 ms - defined as the time required for the output voltage to settle within specification after pressure stabilization. This fast stabilization enables rapid sampling in burst-mode data acquisition systems. Note that warm-up time assumes stable supply voltage and ambient temperature; cold-start operation below –25°C may extend settling by up to 5 ms due to thermal inertia in the epoxy package.