Saelig Introduces Novel Sensor For Low-cost Automotive Detection Systems

PITTSFORD, NY, September 12, 2012

Saelig Co. Inc. announces the availability of the PS25203 EPIC Sensor (Electric Potential Integrated Circuit) for a wide range of contactless ECG and movement sensing in automotive applications, including driver fatigue monitoring and seat occupancy. The EPIC sensor is a completely new, award winning, patent-protected sensor that can rapidly measure electric potential sources such as electrophysiological signals or spatial electric fields.

The EPIC Sensor revolutionizes the way movement sensing, medical ECG/EEG/EOG, proximity non-touch switching, or even gesture recognition signals are taken in vehicles. It can be used as a dry contact ECG sensor without the need for potentially dangerous low impedance circuits across the heart. By detecting changes in the electric field, the EPIC sensor can also drive a relay to act as a simple non-touch electric switch. The EPIC sensor can be employed in a proximity mode or to detect specific kinds of movement as a gesture recognition device.

Alan Lowne, CEO of Plessey's USA distributor Saelig Co. Inc., comments, "With the EPIC sensor chip, discrete movements of the human body can be detected - even at a distance, as in specific hand motions. Manufacturers are constantly trying to differentiate their products by improved user features and comfort inside the car. EPIC sensors provide that opportunity."
EPIC Sensor PS25203 applications include: driver monitoring for health and alertness by detecting heart rate and respiration; determining car occupancy to adjust the ride, handling and air bag deployment depending on the size and location of occupants. By adjusting the DSP and amplification circuitry, the sensors can be tuned for detection at a distance as required for differing automotive applications. EPIC sensor electrodes can be easily and discretely incorporated inside car seat backs to acquire the necessary biometric data.
PS25203 EPIC sensors are in in commercial production now in a custom 4-pin PCB hybrid package measuring 10.5mm x 10.5mm x 3.45mm.
Video demonstrations of the EPIC sensor are at http://www.plesseysemiconductors.com/media_video.html

Made by Plessey Electronics, a leading European innovator in the development of integrated circuits and sensors, PS25203 EPIC sensors are available now from Saelig Company, Inc. Pittsford, NY, Plessey's USA technical distributor. Volume production pricing for the PS25203 is under $2. For detailed specifications, free technical assistance, or additional information, please contact Saelig 1-888-7SAELIG, via email: info@saelig.com, or by visiting http://www.saelig.com/category/MFR0113.htm .

Founded in 1988 in Rochester, New York, Saelig is a North American distributor with a growing reputation for finding and sourcing unique, easy-to-use control and instrumentation products and related active components, for use in a variety of industries. Products lines are continuously added from sources across the globe, and are offered at highly competitive prices, accompanied by full in-house technical support, exceptional customer service, and fast delivery. For full details of available product lines, please visit http://www.saelig.com.