NXP Semiconductors MPXA4115A6U

Overview

MPXA4115A6U from Freescale Semiconductor is a media-resistant, integrated silicon absolute pressure sensor designed for barometric and altimeter applications. It delivers a ratiometric 0.2–4.8 V analog output over a 15–115 kPa range, features on-chip temperature compensation across –40°C to +125°C, and achieves ±1.5% full-scale accuracy over 0° to 85°C - used in aviation altimeters and weather stations.

For engineers reviewing the MPXA4115A6U datasheet, MPXA4115A6U pinout, MPXA4115A6U application, or MPXA4115A6U equivalent, this device requires attention to its small-outline package (Case 482), fluorosilicone gel media isolation, and supply voltage sensitivity (4.85–5.35 V) when interfacing with microcontroller ADCs or signal conditioning circuits.

Technical Context

The MPXA4115A6U integrates bipolar op amp circuitry and thin-film resistor networks to provide signal conditioning, temperature compensation, and factory calibration. Its transfer function is V_OUT = V_S × (0.009 × P − 0.095), with ratiometric behavior tied to supply voltage (V_S = 5.1 V ± 0.25 V).

It operates as a sealed-vacuum-referenced absolute pressure sensor with a stainless-steel cap and thermoplastic (PPS) housing. The device exhibits 1.0 ms response time, 7.0 mA typical supply current, and offset stability of ±0.5% VFSS after 1000-hour pulsed pressure/temperature cycling.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MPXA4115A6U uses Case 482-01 - an 8-pin small-outline package with surface-mount footprint, thermoplastic (PPS) body, and fluorosilicone gel die protection. Pins 1, 5, 6, 7, and 8 are no-connects; functional terminals are V_OUT, GND, and V_S.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MPXA4115A6U, MPXAZ4115A6U offers identical performance and ruggedness, while MPX4115A trades media resistance and extended temperature range for lower cost and simpler packaging - making the MPXA4115A6U optimal for field-deployed outdoor or automotive-grade systems.

Availability

MPXA4115A6U is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for aviation altimeters, weather stations, and engine control units requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and humidity conditions.

Supply support for MPXA4115A6U 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 global leader in embedded processing and sensor solutions, specializing in automotive, industrial, and aerospace-grade analog and mixed-signal ICs.

The MPX4115A series - including MPXA4115A6U - was developed specifically for high-reliability barometric and altimetric applications, emphasizing on-chip signal conditioning, media resistance, and wide-temperature calibration.

FAQ

What is the pressure media compatibility of MPXA4115A6U?

The MPXA4115A6U uses fluorosilicone gel and is rated for dry air and humid ambient air. It is not qualified for liquid immersion, aggressive solvents, or corrosive gases. Freescale explicitly states that media other than dry air may degrade long-term reliability - consult NXP's application notes for validated alternatives if chemical exposure is expected. MPXA4115A6U performance is guaranteed only with clean, non-condensing air.

Does MPXA4115A6U require external calibration?

No, MPXA4115A6U is factory-calibrated and temperature-compensated. Its transfer function V_OUT = V_S × (0.009 × P − 0.095) is pre-programmed; users need only apply regulated 5.1 V supply and read the analog output. No trim resistors, EEPROM calibration data, or software compensation tables are required - MPXA4115A6U delivers plug-and-play accuracy within ±1.5% VFSS over 0°–85°C.

What is the recommended decoupling network for MPXA4115A6U?

Freescale specifies a three-component decoupling network: 1.0 μF tantalum or ceramic capacitor, 0.01 μF ceramic capacitor, and 470 pF ceramic capacitor - all placed between V_S and GND, as shown in Figure 3 of the Rev 5 datasheet. This configuration suppresses high-frequency noise and ensures stable operation up to 1 MHz. Skipping any of these capacitors risks violating the ±1.5% accuracy spec, especially under EMI-rich conditions near motors or switching regulators.

Can MPXA4115A6U be used in differential pressure configurations?

No, MPXA4115A6U is an absolute pressure sensor with a sealed vacuum reference cavity. It measures pressure relative to absolute zero (vacuum), not between two ports. Its pinout has no P2 port or differential output stage. For differential applications, consider Freescale's MPX5700 series or NXP's newer KMA210 family - MPXA4115A6U is strictly for barometric, altimetric, or manifold absolute pressure (MAP) use cases.

What is the maximum overpressure rating for MPXA4115A6U?

The MPXA4115A6U has a maximum pressure rating of 400 kPa (58 psi), per Table 2 of the Rev 5 datasheet. Exceeding this value risks permanent diaphragm deformation or seal failure. While the device operates linearly from 15–115 kPa, it can withstand short-duration overpressure events up to 400 kPa without damage - useful for surge protection in HVAC or pneumatic control systems. Always include mechanical pressure limiting in safety-critical designs.