Korean 8-inch pure-play foundry SK keyfoundry has introduced its latest 3D Hall-effect sensor technology. Specifically, the new sensor can measure speed and direction through three-dimensional magnetic field detection for its foundry customers.
SK keyfoundry has provided a variety of products using existing one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) Hall-effect sensors. Thus, this new 3D Hall-effect sensor integrates both Vertical and Planar Hall-effect sensors on a single chip.
Moreover, it features enhanced sensitivity beyond that of existing 2D products, enabling real-time measurement of minute three-dimensional direction and speed changes with rapid response times.

Why Hall-Effect Sensor Matters?

Generally speaking, a Hall-effect sensor is a device that measures the strength of a magnetic field using the Hall-effect, which detects the voltage difference generated when a conductor or semiconductor passes through a magnetic field. The measured magnetic field is utilized in applications that leverage the position, speed, rotation, direction, and current of devices.
Thus, a 3D Hall Effect sensor makes possible applications that require accurate detection of position, orientation, and movement in multiple axes. Particularly, they suit applications such as robotics, automotive systems, advanced industrial automation, and medical fields.
Moreover, consumer electronics, such as for gesture recognition in touch-based devices, precise control of 3D interfaces, among others.
Meanwhile, SK keyfoundry’s new 3D Hall-effect sensor has another important feature. That is, it offers design flexibility to easily integrate into customer products by adding masks to existing processes. Additionally, the integration of the 3D Hall-effect sensor suits across multiple nodes in the range of 0.13μm to 0.18μm while maintaining electrical characteristics.
SK keyfoundry said its new 3D Hall-effect sensor is likely to go to various fields. In particular, it can suit the automotive sector for safe driving assistance and autonomous driving systems. Also, in consumer electronics, suchas for smart appliances and gaming consoles, and in industrial automation for robot control, drones, virtual reality, augmented reality, and wearable devices.
Derek D. Lee, the CEO of SK keyfoundry, stated, “The newly launched 3D Hall-effect sensor technology is expected to be utilized in the design of products across various industries, including home appliances, automotive, robotics, and drones, due to its high sensitivity and ability to detect minute three-dimensional movements.” In addition, Lee said, “We plan to support our customers in integrating more diverse functions into a single semiconductor through ongoing technology openness.”