AN73034 CY8CMBR2016 CapSense® Design Guide.pdf

AN73034 - CY8CMBR2016
CapSense® Design Guide
Doc. No. 001-73034 Rev. *E
Cypress Semiconductor
198 Champion Court
San Jose, CA 95134-1709
Phone (USA): 800.858.1810
Phone (Intnl): 408.943.2600
http://www.cypress.com
Copyrights
Copyrights
© Cypress Semiconductor Corporation, 2012-2016. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice.
Cypress Semiconductor Corporation assumes no responsibility for the use of any circuitry other than circuitry embodied in a
Cypress product. Nor does it convey or imply any license under patent or other rights. Cypress products are not warranted
nor intended to be used for medical, life support, life saving, critical control or safety applications, unless pursuant to an
express written agreement with Cypress. Furthermore, Cypress does not authorize its products for use as critical
components in life-support systems where a malfunction or failure may reasonably be expected to result in significant injury
to the user. The inclusion of Cypress products in life-support systems application implies that the manufacturer assumes all
risk of such use and in doing so indemnifies Cypress against all charges.
Trademarks
PSoC Designer™, Programmable System-on-Chip™, and SmartSense™ are trademarks and PSoC® and CapSense® are
registered trademarks of Cypress Semiconductor Corp. All other trademarks or registered trademarks referenced herein are
property of the respective corporations.
Source Code
Any Source Code (software and/or firmware) is owned by Cypress Semiconductor Corporation (Cypress) and is protected
by and subject to worldwide patent protection (United States and foreign), United States copyright laws and international
treaty provisions. Cypress hereby grants to licensee a personal, non-exclusive, non-transferable license to copy, use,
modify, create derivative works of, and compile the Cypress Source Code and derivative works for the sole purpose of
creating custom software and or firmware in support of licensee product to be used only in conjunction with a Cypress
integrated circuit as specified in the applicable agreement. Any reproduction, modification, translation, compilation, or
representation of this Source Code except as specified above is prohibited without the express written permission of
Cypress.
Disclaimer
CYPRESS MAKES NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, WITH REGARD TO THIS MATERIAL,
INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE. Cypress reserves the right to make changes without further notice to the materials described
herein. Cypress does not assume any liability arising out of the application or use of any product or circuit described herein.
Cypress does not authorize its products for use as critical components in life-support systems where a malfunction or failure
may reasonably be expected to result in significant injury to the user. The inclusion of Cypress’s product in a life-support
systems application implies that the manufacturer assumes all risk of such use and in doing so indemnifies Cypress against
all charges.
Use may be limited by and subject to the applicable Cypress software license agreement.
AN73034 - CY8CMBR2016 Capsense® Design GuideDoc. No. 001-73034 Rev. *E
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Contents
Contents
1.
Introduction.................................................................................................................................................................... 5
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
2.
CapSense Technology .................................................................................................................................................. 9
2.1
2.2
2.3
3.
Abstract ................................................................................................................................................................. 5
Cypress’s CapSense Documentation Ecosystem.................................................................................................. 6
CY8CMBR2016 CapSense® Express Device Features ......................................................................................... 7
Document Conventions ......................................................................................................................................... 8
CapSense Fundamentals ...................................................................................................................................... 9
Capacitive Sensing Method ................................................................................................................................. 10
2.2.1 CapSense Sigma-Delta (CSD) ............................................................................................................... 10
SmartSense Auto-Tuning .................................................................................................................................... 12
2.3.1 Process Variation.................................................................................................................................... 12
2.3.2 Reduced Design Cycle Time .................................................................................................................. 13
CapSense Schematic Design ..................................................................................................................................... 14
3.1
3.2
CY8CMBR2016 Configuration Options ............................................................................................................... 14
3.1.1 CapSense Buttons (CSx Pins) ................................................................................................................ 14
3.1.2 Modulation Capacitor (CMOD Pin) ............................................................................................................ 14
3.1.3 Flanking Sensor Suppression (FSS Pin) ................................................................................................ 15
3.1.4 Output Select (OUT_SEL Pin) ................................................................................................................ 15
3.1.5 Key Scan Interface ................................................................................................................................. 15
3.1.6 Truth Table Output.................................................................................................................................. 17
3.1.7 Encoded 4-bit Output .............................................................................................................................. 18
3.1.8 Buzzer Signal Output (Buzzer Pin) ......................................................................................................... 18
3.1.9 Interrupt Line (INT Pin) ........................................................................................................................... 18
3.1.10 Button Auto Reset (ARST Pin) ............................................................................................................... 18
3.1.11 Button Scan Rate (SCAN Pin) ................................................................................................................ 19
3.1.12 Sensitivity Control (SENSITIVITY Pin).................................................................................................... 19
3.1.13 System Diagnostics ................................................................................................................................ 19
3.1.14 Serial Debug Data Out (DEBUG Pin) ..................................................................................................... 22
Design Toolbox.................................................................................................................................................... 25
3.2.1 General Layout Guidelines ..................................................................................................................... 25
3.2.2 Layout Estimator ..................................................................................................................................... 26
3.2.3 CP, Power Consumption and Response Time Calculator ....................................................................... 27
3.2.4 Design Validation .................................................................................................................................... 28
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Contents
4.
Electrical and Mechanical Design Considerations ................................................................................................... 30
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
5.
Low-Power Design Considerations ........................................................................................................................... 34
5.1
5.2
5.3
6.
System Design Considerations............................................................................................................................ 34
Calculating Average Power ................................................................................................................................. 34
5.2.1 Button Scan Rate (TR) ............................................................................................................................ 34
5.2.2 Scan Time (TS) ....................................................................................................................................... 35
5.2.3 Average Current in NO TOUCH state (IAVE_NT) ....................................................................................... 35
5.2.4 Average Current in TOUCH state (IAVE_T) ............................................................................................... 35
5.2.5 Average Use Current (IAVE_U) .................................................................................................................. 36
5.2.6 Average Current (IAVE) ............................................................................................................................ 36
5.2.7 Average Power (PAVE)............................................................................................................................. 36
5.2.8 Example Calculation ............................................................................................................................... 36
Sleep Modes........................................................................................................................................................ 37
5.3.1 Low-Power Sleep Mode .......................................................................................................................... 37
5.3.2 Deep Sleep Mode ................................................................................................................................... 37
Resources .................................................................................................................................................................... 38
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6
6.7
7.
Overlay Selection ................................................................................................................................................ 30
4.1.1 Bonding Overlay to PCB ......................................................................................................................... 31
ESD Protection .................................................................................................................................................... 31
4.2.1 Prevent ................................................................................................................................................... 31
4.2.2 Redirect .................................................................................................................................................. 31
4.2.3 Clamp ..................................................................................................................................................... 31
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Considerations ......................................................................................... 32
4.3.1 Radiated Interference ............................................................................................................................. 32
4.3.2 Conducted Immunity and Emissions....................................................................................................... 32
Scan Line Waveform Requirements (Key Scan Interface) .................................................................................. 32
PCB Layout Guidelines ....................................................................................................................................... 33
Website ............................................................................................................................................................... 38
Datasheet ............................................................................................................................................................ 38
Kits ...................................................................................................................................................................... 38
Design Toolbox.................................................................................................................................................... 38
Sample Board Files ............................................................................................................................................. 38
MultiChart ............................................................................................................................................................ 38
Design Support .................................................................................................................................................... 38
Appendix ...................................................................................................................................................................... 39
7.1
Schematic Examples ........................................................................................................................................... 39
7.1.1 Schematic 1: 16 Buttons with Key Scan Output Mode............................................................................ 39
7.1.2 Schematic 2: 16 Buttons with Truth Table Output Mode ......................................................................... 41
Glossary................................................................................................................................................................................ 43
Revision History ................................................................................................................................................................... 49
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Introduction
1. Introduction
1.1 Abstract
This document describes how to implement capacitive sensing functionality using Cypress’s CapSense ® Express™
CY8CMBR2016 device. The following topics are covered in this guide:

Features of the CY8CMBR2016

CapSense principles of operation

Configuration options of the CY8CMBR2016 device

Using the Design Toolbox with the CY8CMBR2016

System electrical and mechanical design considerations for the CY8CMBR2016

Low Power Design Considerations for the CY8CMBR2016

Additional resources and support for designing CapSense into your system
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Introduction
1.2 Cypress’s CapSense Documentation Ecosystem
Figure 1-1 and Table 1-1 summarize the Cypress CapSense documentation ecosystem. These resources allow
implementers to quickly access the information needed to successfully complete a CapSense product design. Figure
1-1 shows the typical flow of a product design cycle with capacitive sensing; the information in this guide is most
pertinent to the topics highlighted in green. Table 1-1 provides links to the supporting documents for each of the
numbered tasks in Figure 1-1.
Figure 1-1. Typical CapSense Product Design Flow
1. Understand CapSense technology
= Topics covered in this document
2. Specify system requirements and
characteristics
*
†
= Applicable to MBR family of devices only
= Applicable to programmable devices only
3. Select CapSense device based on
required functionality
Design for CapSense
4. Mechanical
Design
5. Schematic
capture and
PCB layout
6. PSoC Designer project
creation†
7. Firmware
development†
8. CapSense tuning†
10. CapSense
Configuration*
†
9. Programming PSoC
11. Preproduction build ( prototype)
12. Test and evaluate system functionality and
CapSense performance
Meets
specifications?
No
Yes
13. Production
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Introduction
Table 1-1. Cypress Documents Supporting Numbered Design Tasks of Figure 1-1
Numbered Design Task
of Figure 1-1
Supporting Cypress CapSenseDocumentation
1
Getting Started with CapSense
2
CY8CMBR2016 Device Datasheet
3
Getting Started with CapSense
4
This document
5
This document
6
Not applicable for CY8CMBR2016
7
Not applicable for CY8CMBR2016
8
Not applicable for CY8CMBR2016
9
Not applicable for CY8CMBR2016
10
This document
11
This document
1.3 CY8CMBR2016 CapSense® Express Device Features
Cypress’s low-power CapSense controller can easily add capacitive touch sensing to your user interface. The
device’s features include:


Hardware Configurable Matrix CapSense Controller

Does not require software tools or programming

16 buttons can be configured individually or as a matrix

Supports 3x4 and 4x4 matrix configurations
Matrix Host Interface Communication





Industry standard host interface protocols reuse existing host processor firmware
o
Key Scan Interface
o
Truth Table Interface
Encoded GPO Interface – minimizes number of pins required
SmartSense™ Auto-Tuning

Maintains optimal button performance even in noisy environment

CapSense parameters dynamically set in runtime

Wide parasitic capacitance (CP) range (5—40 pF)

Saves time and effort in device tuning
Noise Immunity

High sensitivity, low noise capacitive sensing algorithm

Strong immunity to RF and AC noise

Low radiated noise emission
System Diagnostics

Button shorts

Improper value of modulating capacitor (CMOD)

Parasitic capacitance (CP) out of range
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Introduction

Advanced Features

Flanking Sensor Suppression (FSS) provides robust sensing even with closely spaced buttons

Buzzer Signal Output

Configurable sensitivity for all buttons

Interrupt line to host to indicate any CapSense button status change

Serial debug data output
o


Simplifies production-line testing and system debug
Wide operating range

1.71—5.5 V

Ideal for both regulated and unregulated battery applications
Low power consumption

Supply current in run mode as low as 20 µA1 per button

Deep sleep current: 100 nA

Industrial temperature range: –40 °C to + 85 °C

48-pin QFN package (6 × 6 × 0.6 mm)
1.4 Document Conventions
Convention
Usage
Courier New
Displays file locations, user entered text, and source code:
C:\ ...cd\icc\
Italics
Displays file names and reference documentation:
Read about the sourcefile.hex file in the PSoC Designer User Guide.
[Bracketed, Bold]
Displays keyboard commands in procedures:
[Enter] or [Ctrl] [C]
File > Open
Represents menu paths:
File > Open > New Project
Bold
Displays commands, menu paths, and icon names in procedures:
Click the File icon and then click Open.
Times New Roman
Displays an equation:
2+2=4
Text in gray boxes
Describes Cautions or unique functionality of the product.
1
Power consumption calculated with 250 ms scan time, 2% touch time and Cp of each button < 19 pF
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CapSense Technology
2. CapSense Technology
2.1 CapSense Fundamentals
CapSense is a touch sensing technology that works by measuring the capacitance of each sensor input pin on the
CapSense controller. The total capacitance on each of the sensor pins can be modeled as equivalent lumped
capacitors with values of CX,1 through CX,n as shown in Figure 2-1. Circuitry internal to the CY8CMBR2016 device
converts the magnitude of each CX into a digital code that is stored for post processing. A modulator capacitor, C MOD,
is used by the CapSense controller’s internal circuitry and will be discussed in more detail in Capacitive Sensing
Method.
Figure 2-1. CapSense Implementation in a CY8CMBR2016 Device
CY8CMBR2016
Sensor
Capacitors
CMOD
CX,1
CX,2
CX,n
Each sensor input pin is connected to a sensor pad by traces, vias, or both as necessary. A nonconductive overlay is
required to cover the sensor pad and constitutes the product’s touch interface. When a finger comes into contact with
the overlay, the conductivity and mass of the body effectively introduces a grounded conductive plane parallel to the
sensor pad. This is represented in Figure 2-2. This arrangement constitutes a parallel plate capacitor, whose
capacitance is given by:
𝐶𝐹 =
𝜀0 𝜀𝑟 𝐴
Equation 1
𝐷
Where:
CF = The capacitance affected by a finger in contact with the overlay over a sensor
ε0 = Free space permittivity
εr = Dielectric constant (relative permittivity) of overlay
A = Area of finger and sensor pad overlap
D = Overlay thickness
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CapSense Technology
Figure 2-2. Section of Typical CapSense PCB with the Sensor Being Activated by a Finger
In addition to the parallel plate capacitance, a finger in contact with the overlay causes electric field fringing between
itself and other conductors in the immediate vicinity. Typically, the effect of these fringing fields is minor, and it can
usually be ignored.
Even without a finger touching the overlay, the sensor input pin has some parasitic capacitance (C P). CP results from
the combination of the CapSense controller internal parasitic and electric field coupling among the sensor pad,
traces, and vias, and other conductors in the system such as ground plane, other traces, any metal in the product’s
chassis or enclosure, and so on. The CapSense controller measures the total capacitance (C X) connected to a
sensor pin.
When a finger is not touching a sensor:
𝐶𝑋 = 𝐶𝑃
Equation 2
With a finger on the sensor, CX equals the sum of CP and CF:
𝐶𝑋 = 𝐶𝑃 + 𝐶𝐹
Equation 3
In general, CP is an order of magnitude greater than CF. CP usually ranges from 10—20 pF, but in extreme cases can
be as high as 40 pF. CF usually ranges from 0.1—0.4 pF.
2.2 Capacitive Sensing Method
CY8CMBR2016 device supports CapSense Sigma Delta (CSD) with SmartSense Auto-Tuning for converting sensor
capacitance (CX) into digital counts. The method is described in the following sections.
2.2.1 CapSense Sigma-Delta (CSD)
The CSD method in the CY8CMBR2016 device incorporates CX into a switched capacitor circuit as shown in
Figure 2-3. CX is alternatively connected to Gnd and the AMUX bus by the non-overlapping switches Sw1 and Sw2.
Sw1 and Sw2 are driven by the Precharge clock to bleed a current, i sensor from the AMUX bus. The magnitude of isensor
is directly proportional to the magnitude of CX. The sigma-delta converter samples the AMUX bus voltage and
generates a modulating bit stream that controls the constant current source, IDAC. The IDAC charges AMUX such
that the average AMUX bus voltage is maintained at Vref. The sensor bleeds off the charge i sensor from CMOD, which, in
combination with Rbus, forms a low-pass filter that attenuates precharge switching transients at the sigma-delta
converter input.
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CapSense Technology
Figure 2-3. CSD Block Diagram
CY8CMBR2016
Gnd
Precharge
Clock
IDAC
Sw1
Vref
Gnd
Sw2
Rbus
Cx
isensor
AMUX
Bus
High-Z
input
Sigma-Delta
Converter
Cmod
= External Connection
To maintain the AMUX bus voltage at Vref, the sigma-delta converter matches IDAC to isensor by controlling the bit
stream duty cycle. The sigma-delta converter stores the bit stream over the duration of a sensor scan, and the
accumulated result is a digital output, raw count, which is directly proportional to CX. This raw count is interpreted by
high-level algorithms to resolve the sensor state. Figure 2-4 plots the CSD raw counts from a number of consecutive
scans during which the sensor is touched and then released by a finger. As explained in CapSense Fundamentals,
the finger touch causes CX to increase by CF, which in turn causes raw counts to increase proportionally. By
comparing the shift in steady state raw count level to a predetermined threshold, the high-level algorithms can
determine whether the sensor is in an ON (Touch) or OFF (No Touch) state. To learn more about Raw Counts,
Finger Threshold, and Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), refer to Getting Started with CapSense.
Figure 2-4. CSD Raw Counts during a Finger Touch
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CapSense Technology
2.3 SmartSense Auto-Tuning
Tuning the touch-sensing user interface is critical for proper system operation and a pleasant user experience.
Unfortunately, tuning is time-consuming because it is an iterative process. In a typical development cycle, the
interface is tuned in the initial design phase, during system integration, and before production ramp. SmartSense
Auto-Tuning was developed to simplify the user interface development cycle. It is easy to use and reduces design
cycle time by eliminating manual tuning during the prototype and manufacturing stages. SmartSense Auto-Tuning
tunes each CapSense button automatically at power up and maintains optimum button performance during runtime.
SmartSense Auto-Tuning adapts for manufacturing variation in PCBs and overlays and automatically tunes out noise
from sources such as LCD inverters, AC lines, and switch-mode power supplies.
2.3.1 Process Variation
The CY8CMBR2010 device’s SmartSense Auto-Tuning is designed to work with CP values in the range of 5—40 pF.
The sensitivity parameter for each button is set automatically, based on its characteristics. This parameter improves
yield in mass production because every button maintains a consistent response regardless of C P variation between
the buttons. CP can vary due to PCB layout and trace length, PCB manufacturing process variation, or vendor-tovendor PCB variation within a multi-sourced supply chain. The sensitivity of a button depends on C P; higher CP
values decrease sensitivity, resulting in decreased finger touch signal amplitude. A change in CP can result in a
button becoming too sensitive, not sensitive enough, or non-operational. When this happens, you must retune the
system and, in some cases, re-qualify the user interface subsystem. The CY8CMBR2016 device solves these issues
by incorporating SmartSense and configurable sensitivity based on sensor size and C p.
SmartSense Auto-Tuning makes platform designs possible. For example, consider the capacitive touch sensing
multimedia keys on a laptop computer. The parasitic capacitance of the CapSense buttons can vary in different
models of the same platform design depending on the size of the laptop and the keyboard layout. In this example, a
wide-screen laptop model would have larger spaces between the buttons than a standard-screen model. Therefore, a
wide-screen model would have longer traces between each button and the CapSense controller, which would result
in higher CP values. Though the buttons’ functionality is identical for all of the laptop models, the buttons must be
tuned for each model. SmartSense Auto-Tuning lets you do platform designs using the recommended practices
shown in the PCB Layout in Getting Started with CapSense.
Figure 2-5 Design of Laptop Multimedia Keys for a 21-Inch Model
Figure 2-6 Design of Laptop Multimedia Keys for a 15-Inch Model with Identical Functionality and Button Size
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CapSense Technology
2.3.2 Reduced Design Cycle Time
When you design a capacitive button interface, the most time-consuming tasks are firmware development, layout,
and button tuning. With a typical touch-sensing controller, the button must be retuned when the same design is
ported to different models or when the mechanical dimensions change in the PCB or the button PCB layout. A design
with SmartSense Auto-Tuning meets these challenges because it does not require firmware development, manual
tuning, or retuning. In addition, SmartSense Auto-Tuning speeds up a typical design cycle. Figure 2-7 compares the
design cycles of a typical touch-sensing controller and a SmartSense Auto-Tuning-based design.
Figure 2-7. Typical Capacitive Interface Design Cycle Comparison
CapSense® Express with SmartSense™ Auto-Tuning based
capacitive user interface Design Cycle
Typical capacitive user interface Design Cycle
Feasibility
Study
Mechanical Design
Schematics
Design
Retuning for any
changes
Production Fine
Tuning
PCB Layout
Design
System
Integration
Design
Validation
Review
Firmware
Development
Feasibility
Study
Schematics
Design
Review
Mechanical Design
Tuning process
System
Integration
Design
Validation
Production
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Design
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Device
Configuration
Production
13
CapSense Schematic Design
3. CapSense Schematic Design
3.1 CY8CMBR2016 Configuration Options
Cypress’s CY8CMBR2016 allows you to implement capacitive touch sensing using only hardware. The
CY8CMBR2016 provides three different host interface communication modes. Industry standard Key Scan Interface
and Truth Table Output reuse existing host processor firmware, allowing you to easily convert mechanical buttons to
CapSense buttons. The Encoded GPO Interface with a 4-bit output minimizes the number of pins required for a
button output. These three outputs are configurable, providing a wide variety of uses for our device across multiple
applications.
This section provides an overview of the CapSense controller pins and how to configure them.
36
35
34
33
32
31
30
29
28
27
26
25
OUT6
OUT 4
OUT 2
OUT0
CS6
CS7
CS10
CS11
CS14
CS15
XRES
SCAN
Buzzer
11
12
NC
NC
Vdd
SENSITIVITY
NC
7
8
9
10
FSS
NC
NC
CS13
CS12
NC
CY8CMBR2016
QFN
(Top View )
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
OUT_SEL
ARST
CS9
CS8
3
4
5
6
15
16
OUT 5
OUT 3
OUT 1
SL EEP
DEBUG
Vss
OUT 7
1
2
13
14
NC
48 CMOD
47 Vss
46 IN T
45 CS4
44 CS5
43 NC
42
NC
41 Vd d
40 CS0
39 CS1
38 CS2
37 CS3
Figure 3-1. CY8CMBR2016 Pin Diagram
3.1.1 CapSense Buttons (CSx Pins)
The CY8CMBR2016 controller has 16 capacitive sense inputs, CS0—CS15. Each capacitive button requires a
connection to one of the capacitive sense inputs. You must ground all unused CapSense (CSx) inputs pins.
3.1.2 Modulation Capacitor (CMOD Pin)
Connect a 2.2 nF (±10%) capacitor to the CMOD pin.
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CapSense Schematic Design
3.1.3 Flanking Sensor Suppression (FSS Pin)
FSS allows only one CSx to be in the TOUCH state at a time. This means you can distinguish TOUCH states for
closely spaced buttons. If a finger contacts multiple CSx buttons, only the first one to sense a TOUCH state will turn
ON.
FSS also is useful when nearby buttons can produce opposite effects such as an interface with two buttons for
brightness control (UP or DOWN).
To enable the feature, connect the FSS pin to VDD. Connect the pin to ground to disable it.
Figure 3-2. FSS When Only One Button is Touched
CS0
CS1
CS2
CS3
CS0
CS1
CS2
CS3
CS1 is reported as ON upon touch
No button is ON prior to the touch
Figure 3-3. FSS When Multiple Buttons are Touched With One Button ON Previously
CS2 also touched along with CS1; only
CS1 is reported ON
CS1 is touched; reported ON
3.1.4 Output Select (OUT_SEL Pin)
CY8CMBR2016 provides three different host interface communication modes:
1.
2.
3.
Key Scan Interface
Truth Table Output
Encoded 4-bit Output
The OUT_SEL pin selects the host interface mode as described in Table 3-1
Table 3-1. OUT_Select Configuration
OUT_SEL pin
Host Interface Mode
Ground
Truth Table Output
1.5 KΩ (±5%) resistor to ground
Encoded 4-bit Output
VDD / Floating
Key Scan Interface
3.1.5 Key Scan Interface
Refer to Table 3-1 for how to select the host interface mode.
Key Scan Interface mimics legacy mechanical keypads with four scan lines (I/P) and four read lines (O/P). The host
drives the device scan lines SCAN0 to SCAN3 in a time slot manner. Each scan line is driven for a time period, T,
where:
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CapSense Schematic Design
T = 30 µs, if debug is disabled
T = 130 µs, if debug is enabled
Refer to Figure 3-5 for scan line waveforms.
The device reads the scan lines and updates the read lines based on the button status. The host reads the device
read lines to know the status of corresponding buttons.
Key Scan Interface is a ‘Plug' n 'Play' replacement for mechanical keypads. Refer to Figure 3-4 for an example Key
Scan Interface.
When buttons are disabled or found to be invalid, Key Scan Interface helps identify the disabled or invalid buttons
using the scan and read lines. When the scan lines are not used, they should be connected to VDD.
In this output mode, OUT0 to OUT3 act as the scan lines and OUT4 to OUT7 act as the read lines.
Table 3-2. Key Scan Interface Selection Based on Number of Buttons
SCAN x READ Lines
SCAN Lines
Buttons >12
4x4
OUT0 to OUT3
12 ≥ Buttons > 8
3x4
OUT0 to OUT2
8 ≥ Buttons > 4
2x4
OUT0 to OUT1
Buttons ≤ 4
1x4
OUT0
Scan Lines
Scan Lines
(ODL Mode)
Figure 3-4. Example of Key Scan Interface (4x4 Matrix)1
CY8CMBR2016
Read Lines
Read Lines
(Strong Drive)
Host
X
Mechanical
Keypad
1
Scan Lines in Open Drain Low (ODL) Mode
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CapSense Schematic Design
Figure 3-5. Key Scan Line Waveforms
3.1.6 Truth Table Output
Refer to Table 3-1 for how to select the host interface mode.
Truth Table Output is a matrix output interface. All of the output pins are divided into ROW and COLUMN lines. For
this type of output interface, only one button can be reported at a time, therefore, FSS should be enabled when using
Truth Table Output.
Button status is reported in an encoded ROW/COLUMN manner as shown in Figure 3-6. Each button has its own
ROW-COLUMN code. OUT_4 to OUT_7 form the ROW lines and OUT_0 to OUT_3 form the COLUMN lines.
Truth Table Output is easy to integrate into a system requiring a simple interface with single key press requirement.
Figure 3-6. Button Status Reporting
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CapSense Schematic Design
3.1.7 Encoded 4-bit Output
Refer to Table 3-1 for how to select the host interface mode.
In an Encoded 4-bit Output, only four pins are needed to report a button touch, even for 16 buttons. Each button has
a unique code which is seen on the output pins, when the button is touched. Only one button can be reported at a
time using this interface, therefore, FSS should be enabled when using Encoded 4-bit Output. Table 3-3 defines the
output given.
Table 3-3. Encoded Output
Key Press Detected
Encoded
Output [3:0]
Interrupt
Time
Key #1
0000
1
Key #2
0001
1
Key #3
0010
1
Key #4
0011
1
…
…
1
Key #16
1111
1
No keys pressed
XXXX
0
3.1.8 Buzzer Signal Output (Buzzer Pin)
Buzzer Signal Output can be used to drive a p-type transistor that drives a buzzer, or to directly drive a DC buzzer
with sink current up to 10 mA.
3.1.9 Interrupt Line (INT Pin)
An interrupt line to the host controller is provided. The line goes high when one or more buttons are touched, and
remains high until those buttons are released.
The Interrupt Line can be used as a latch input at the host side to read the OUT lines. It can also be used as an
interrupt line for the host controller to read the OUT lines.
3.1.10
Button Auto Reset (ARST Pin)
Button Auto Reset determines the maximum time a button is considered to be ON when CSx is continuously touched.
This feature prevents a button from getting stuck if a conducting object is placed too close to it. The Button Auto
Reset period is defined in Table 3-4 and shown Figure 3-7
After the output is turned off due to Button Auto Reset and the button is released, you should not touch the button for
440 ms.
Table 3-4. ARST Pin Configuration
ARST pin
Button Auto Reset
Period
Ground
5 sec
1.5 KΩ (±5%) resistor to ground
20 sec
5 KΩ (±5%) resistor to ground
40 sec
VDD / Floating
No limit
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CapSense Schematic Design
Figure 3-7.Button Auto Reset
3.1.11
Button Scan Rate (SCAN Pin)
Button Scan Rate defines the rate at which the device scans all the buttons and then sleeps, in the Low Power Sleep
mode. Button Scan Rate is defined in Table 3-5.
Device power consumption is dependent on the Button Scan Rate. A higher Button Scan Rate reduces power
consumption. For more details on Low Power Sleep, refer to Sleep Modes.
Table 3-5. SCAN Pin Configuration
SCAN pin
Button Scan rate
Ground
Low, 250 ms
1.5 kΩ (±5%) resistor to ground
Medium, 150 ms
5 kΩ (±5%) resistor to ground
High, 40 ms
VDD / Floating
Continuous
3.1.12
Sensitivity Control (SENSITIVITY Pin)
A button’s sensitivity setting determines the minimum finger capacitance (CF) required to turn ON a button. The
following factors affect the button’s sensitivity:
1. Overlay thickness: For a thicker overlay, the button needs to be more sensitive to a touch. Therefore, the
thicker the overlay, the higher the sensitivity requirement.
2. System noise: As system noise increases, sensitivity needs to be reduced to avoid false button triggers.
3. Form factor of the design: A relatively large button size is required to support low sensitivity (Higher C F). For
a small button diameter, the sensitivity needs to be high.
4. Power consumption: Power consumption increases for high sensitivity buttons. For low power consumption
needs, the sensitivity needs to be low.
The different sensitivity settings available are “High”, “Medium” and “Low”. Sensitivity is defined in Table 3-6.
Table 3-6. SENSITIVITY Pin Configuration
SENSITIVITY pin
Sensitivity
Ground
Low
1.5 kΩ (±5%) resistor to ground
Medium
VDD / Floating
High
3.1.13
System Diagnostics
A built-in Power-on Self Test (POST) mechanism performs five tests at power-on reset (POR), which can be useful in
production testing.
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CapSense Schematic Design
If any button fails any of the five tests, the corresponding bit is set in the button mask and the System Diagnostics
data is sent out serially on OUT6, synchronized with a 2 kHz clock on OUT7.
If no clock is sensed on OUT7 for 300 ms after power ON, all of the buttons have passed System Diagnostics.
If a clock is sensed, then beginning with the first falling edge of the clock, each button takes up one clock slot. A
HIGH output on OUT6 during a falling edge on OUT7 indicates the button being reported during that clock slot has
failed one or more tests. The clock stops after the last failure has been reported.
For example, if CS1, CS3, and CS5 are shorted to ground, the System Diagnostics data is transmitted as shown in
Figure 3-8. CS1’s failure is marked by a HIGH on OUT6 in the 0.5—1 ms slot. CS3’s failure is marked by a HIGH on
OUT6 in the 1.5—2 ms slot. CS5’s failure is marked in the 2.5—3 ms slot. The clock output stops after report CS5.
In another example, Figure 3-9 shows a scenario where CS1, CS3, and CS15 fail.
Figure 3-8. System Diagnostics Output for CS1, CS3, and CS5
Figure 3-9. System Diagnostics Output for CS1, CS3, and CS15
3.1.13.1 Button Shorted to Ground
If a button is disabled/shorted to ground the corresponding bit in the button mask is set and the System Diagnostics
data is sent.
Figure 3-10. Button Short to Ground
Button
CY8 CMBR 2016
shorting
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CapSense Schematic Design
3.1.13.2 Button Shorted to VDD
If any button is shorted to VDD it is disabled and the corresponding bit in the button mask is set, and the System
Diagnostics signal is sent.
Figure 3-11. Button Short to VDD
VDD
shorting
Button
CY8CMBR2016
3.1.13.3 Button to Button Short
Any buttons that are shorted together are disabled and the corresponding bit in the button mask is set and the
System Diagnostics signal is sent.
Figure 3-12. Button to Button Short
Button
shorting
CY8 CMBR 2016
Button
3.1.13.4 Improper Value of CMOD
Recommended value of CMOD is 2—2.4 nF.
If the value of CMOD is found to be less than 1 nF or greater than 4 nF, all buttons are disabled and the status output is
logic high for all clock slots.
3.1.13.5 Button CP > 40 pF
If any button’s CP exceeds 40 pF, it is disabled and the corresponding bit in button mask is set and the System
Diagnostics signal is sent.
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CapSense Schematic Design
3.1.14
Serial Debug Data Out (DEBUG Pin)
Serial Debug Data reports firmware revision, CapSense status, raw count, baseline, difference count, and parasitic
capacitance for all buttons. To enable this feature, the DEBUG pin is pulled down with a 5.6 KΩ resistor.
The Cypress MultiChart Tool can be used to view the debug data for each button. The Serial Debug Data is sent by
the device in the order according to Table 3-7. The MultiChart tool arranges the data in the format as shown in Table
3-8.
Table 3-7. Serial Debug Data Output sent by CY8CMBR2016
Byte
Data
0
0x0D
1
0x0A
Notes
Dummy data for MultiChart
2
CS0_RawCount
CS0 Raw Counts, unsigned 16-bit integer
CS1_RawCount
CS1 Raw Counts, unsigned 16-bit integer
CS2_RawCount
CS2 Raw Counts, unsigned 16-bit integer
---
---
CS15_RawCount
CS15 Raw Counts, unsigned 16-bit integer
34
0x00
–-
35
FW_REV
Firmware Revision
36
0x00
–-
37
CS0_Cp
CS0 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
38
0x00
–-
39
CS1_Cp
CS1 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
40
0x00
–-
41
CS2_Cp
CS2 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
42
0x00
–-
43
CS3_Cp
CS3 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
44
0x00
–-
45
CS4_Cp
CS4 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
CS0_Baseline
CS0 Baseline, unsigned 16-bit integer
CS1_Baseline
CS1 Baseline, unsigned 16-bit integer
CS2_Baseline
CS2 Baseline, unsigned 16-bit integer
---
---
3
4
5
6
7
--32
33
46
47
48
49
50
51
---
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CapSense Schematic Design
Byte
Data
Notes
CS15_Baseline
CS15 Baseline, unsigned 16-bit integer
76
77
78
CapSense status, unsigned 16-bit integer
CS_Status
79
80
0x00
–
81
CS5_Cp
CS5 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
82
0x00
–
83
CS6_Cp
CS6 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
84
0x00
–
85
CS7_Cp
CS7 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
86
0x00
–
87
CS8_Cp
CS8 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
88
0x00
–
89
CS9_Cp
CS9 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
CS0_DiffCount
CS0 Difference Counts, unsigned 16-bit integer
CS1_DiffCount
CS1 Difference Counts, unsigned 16-bit integer
CS2_DiffCount
CS2 Difference Counts, unsigned 16-bit integer
---
---
CS15_DiffCount
CS15 Difference Counts, unsigned 16-bit integer
124
0x00
–
125
CS10_Cp
CS10 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
126
0x00
–
127
CS11_Cp
CS11 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
128
0x00
–
129
CS12_Cp
CS12 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
130
0x00
–
131
CS13_Cp
CS13 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
132
0x00
–
133
CS14_Cp
CS14 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
134
0x00
–
135
CS15_Cp
CS15 parasitic capacitance (pF) in Hex
136
0x00
Dummy data for MultiChart
90
91
92
93
94
95
--122
123
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CapSense Schematic Design
Byte
Data
137
0xFF
138
0xFF
Notes
Table 3-8. Serial Debug Data Arranged in MultiChart
Raw Count Array
Baseline Array
Signal array
#
MSB
LSB
MSB
LSB
MSB
LSB
0
CS0_RawCount
CS0_Baseline
CS0_DiffCount
1
CS1_RawCount
CS1_Baseline
CS1_DiffCount
2
CS2_RawCount
CS2_Baseline
CS2_DiffCount
3
CS3_RawCount
CS3_Baseline
CS3_DiffCount
4
CS4_RawCount
CS4_Baseline
CS4_DiffCount
5
CS5_RawCount
CS5_Baseline
CS5_DiffCount
6
CS6_RawCount
CS6_Baseline
CS6_DiffCount
7
CS7_RawCount
CS7_Baseline
CS7_DiffCount
8
CS8_RawCount
CS8_Baseline
CS8_DiffCount
9
CS9_RawCount
CS9_Baseline
CS9_DiffCount
10
CS10_RawCount
CS10_Baseline
CS10_DiffCount
11
CS11_RawCount
CS11_Baseline
CS11_DiffCount
12
CS12_RawCount
CS12_Baseline
CS12_DiffCount
13
CS13_RawCount
CS13_Baseline
CS13_DiffCount
14
CS14_RawCount
CS14_Baseline
CS14_DiffCount
15
CS15_RawCount
CS15_Baseline
CS15_DiffCount
16
0x00
FW_Rev
CS_Status
0x00
CS10_Cp
17
0x00
CS0_Cp
0x00
CS5_Cp
0x00
CS11_Cp
18
0x00
CS1_Cp
0x00
CS6_Cp
0x00
CS12_Cp
19
0x00
CS2_Cp
0x00
CS7_Cp
0x00
CS13_Cp
20
21
0x00
CS3_Cp
0x00
CS8_Cp
0x00
CS14_Cp
0x00
CS4_Cp
0x00
CS9_Cp
0x00
CS15_Cp
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CapSense Schematic Design
3.2 Design Toolbox
The Design Toolbox helps you to design a CY8CMBR2016 CapSense solution. It offers basic information about the
board layout and feature settings and recommends whether the design is fit for mass production.
3.2.1 General Layout Guidelines
Table 3-9 summarizes the layout guidelines for the CY8CMBR2016. These guidelines are discussed in Electrical and
Mechanical Design Considerations of this guide. For a thorough treatment of this material, see Getting Started with
CapSense, Section 3.7.
Table 3-9. Design Layout Recommendations
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3.2.2 Layout Estimator
The Layout Estimator provides the minimum button size and maximum trace length recommendation based on the
intended end-system requirements and industrial design. The inputs include the overlay material, overlay thickness,
and trace capacitance of circuit board material. Figure 3-13, Table B, lists the dielectric constants for different overlay
materials as well as the trace capacitance per unit length for different PCBs. Table A calculates the minimum button
diameter and maximum trace length for the design, based on three system noise conditions. “Low”, “Medium”, and
“High” noise conditions are relative figures of merit to help you with button development. Noise conditions can vary
from button to button based on the end-system environment. If the noise conditions are unknown, use “Medium” as a
starting point. The actual noise seen at each sensor will be determined in the design validation step described in
Design Validation.
Use the outputs of this sheet to guide the button board layout process, and then check the design prior to prototyping
using the CP, Power Consumption and Response Time Calculator.
Figure 3-13. Layout Estimator
Inputs:

Overlay thickness

Overlay dielectric constant

Capacitance of trace per inch of board
Outputs:

Recommended minimum button diameter and maximum trace length for different noise conditions

Button to ground clearance
The button diameter of each button can be different in the design based on whether the noise varies button to button.
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CapSense Schematic Design
3.2.3 CP, Power Consumption and Response Time Calculator
After board layout is complete, use the Power Consumption and Response Time Calculator to check your design
before building a prototype, as shown in Figure 3-14. To verify the CP value of each button, insert the button
diameters and trace lengths into Table A. After you enter the information, the toolbox confirms whether each button is
within the specified CP range of 5—40 pF.
The power calculator in Table B is used to optimize power consumption. Power consumption is a function of the
button scan rate, noise immunity level, and the percentage of time the finger is on the button. Enter these details from
the drop down menu.
Table C outputs the button response time based on the inputs in Tables A and B.
Figure 3-14. CP, Power Consumption and Response Time Calculator
Inputs:

Button diameter and trace length of CS0–CS15 as designed in layout.

Output interface

Button Scan Rate used in the design

The percentage of time a finger is on the buttons.
Outputs:

CP for each button. Confirms whether the CP values are within the specified range of 5—40 pF

Power consumption per button

Button response time
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CapSense Schematic Design
3.2.4 Design Validation
After you have built and tested your prototype board, you can use Serial Debug Data Out test mode to capture the
raw count, baseline, difference count, and CP for each of the buttons. You can then enter this information into Table C
of the Design Validation Sheet shown in Figure 3-15 to validate your design.
Figure 3-15. Design Validation
To capture and enter the data use the following steps:
1.
Enable the Serial Debug Data Out feature by connecting a 5.2 kΩ resistor to Ground on the DEBUG pin.
2.
Power on the device and connect the DEBUG pin to the computer through a COM/RS232 port.
3.
Open MultiChart (see AN2397, CapSense Data Viewing Tools) and configure the following:
a.
Select PORT - <Specify Port number>
b.
Port speed – 115200
c.
Visible points – 1000
d.
Log file name – “1.csv” (to be saved in the same folder as the Design Toolbox)
4.
Click on Enable/disable log-file. This will automatically store the data to the log file. Log this data for atleast
300 samples.
5.
Click on Enable/disable log-file. This will stop logging the data.
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CapSense Schematic Design
6.
Open the log file once. The toolbox will automatically be updated with the relevant data.
Table A shows the various design parameter values, taken up from the previous sheets, so that you need not enter
any data in this sheet. This sheet provides a pass/fail grade for the prototype board. If your design fails, you can
redesign your system by entering new values in Table A and further recommendations/results will be given. If your
design passes, leave the New value column in Table A blank.
Inputs:

Raw Counts

Noise Counts

Button CP

If the design fails, note the following:

New overlay thickness, overlay material permittivity, button diameter for each individual button, and trace
capacitance

Button Scan Rate used in design

Percentage of time a finger is on the buttons
Outputs:

Power consumption per button

Design change recommendations: The Design Toolbox provides recommendations based on the actual values
from the design if the button size or trace lengths are outside of best design practices.
If the button board does not pass, the Design Toolbox will offer recommendations to guide you to a passing outcome.
You can change four areas to remedy a failing design: button size, trace length, overlay material, and overlay
thickness. Changing the button size or trace length requires a board spin, while changing the overlay material,
thickness, or both, may result in a passing design. The best solution depends on where your design is in the
development cycle as well as your end-system requirements.
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4. Electrical and Mechanical Design
Considerations
When designing a capacitive touch sense technology into your application, it is crucial to remember that the CapSense device
exists within a larger framework. Careful attention to every detail, including PCB layout, user interface, and end-user operating
environment, leads to robust and reliable system performance. For in-depth information, refer to Getting Started with
CapSense.
4.1 Overlay Selection
In CapSense Fundamentals, Equation 1 was presented for finger capacitance
𝜀0 𝜀𝑟 𝐴
𝐷
Where:
ε0 = Free space permittivity
εr = Dielectric constant of overlay
A = Area of finger and sensor pad overlap
D = Overlay thickness
𝐶𝐹 =
To increase the CapSense signal strength, choose an overlay material with a higher dielectric constant, decrease the overlay
thickness, and increase the button diameter. The Design Toolbox helps you to design a robust and reliable CY8CMBR2016
solution, as discussed in CapSense Schematic Design.
Table 4-1.Overlay Material Dielectric Strength
Material
Breakdown Voltage
(V/mm)
Min. Overlay Thickness at 12 kV
(mm)
Air
1200–2800
10
Wood – dry
3900
3
7900
1.5
Glass – Borosilicate (Pyrex )
13,000
0.9
PMMA Plastic (Plexiglas®)
13,000
0.9
ABS
16,000
0.8
Polycarbonate (Lexan )
16,000
0.8
Formica
18,000
0.7
28,000
0.4
PET Film – (Mylar )
280,000
0.04
Polymide film – (Kapton®)
290,000
0.04
Glass – common
®)
®
FR-4
®
Conductive material cannot be used as an overlay because it interferes with the electric field pattern. Therefore, do not use
paints containing metal particles.
Electrical and Mechanical Design Considerations
4.1.1 Bonding Overlay to PCB
Because the dielectric constant of air is very low, an air gap between the overlay and the button degrades the performance of
the button. To eliminate the gap, use a non-conductive adhesive to bond the overlay to the CapSense PCB. A transparent
acrylic adhesive film from 3M™ called 200MP is qualified for use in CapSense applications. This special adhesive is
dispensed from paper-backed tape rolls (3M™ product numbers 467MP and 468MP).
4.2 ESD Protection
Robust ESD tolerance is a natural byproduct of thoughtful system design. By considering how the contact discharge occurs in
your end product, particularly in your user interface, you can withstand an 18-kV discharge event without incurring any
damage to the CapSense controller.
CapSense controller pins can withstand a direct 12-kV event. In most cases, the overlay material provides sufficient ESD
protection for the controller pins. Table 4-1 lists the thickness of various overlay materials required to protect the CapSense
sensors from a 12-kV discharge as specified in IEC 61000-4-2. If the overlay material does not provide sufficient protection,
apply ESD countermeasures in the following order: Prevent, Redirect, Clamp.
4.2.1 Prevent
Make sure all paths on the touch surface have a breakdown voltage greater than potential high voltage contacts. In addition,
design your system to maintain an appropriate distance between the CapSense controller and possible sources of ESD. If it is
not possible to maintain adequate distance, place a protective layer of a high-breakdown-voltage material between the ESD
source and CapSense controller. One layer of 5-mil-thick Kapton® tape can withstand 18 kV.
4.2.2 Redirect
If your product is densely packed, it may not be possible to prevent the discharge event. In this case you can protect the
CapSense controller by controlling where the discharge occurs. Place a guard ring on the perimeter of the circuit board that is
connected to chassis ground. As recommended in PCB Layout Guidelines, providing a hatched ground plane around the
button can redirect the ESD event away from the button and CapSense controller.
4.2.3 Clamp
Because CapSense sensors are purposely placed in close proximity to the touch surface, it may not be practical to redirect the
discharge path. In this case, consider including series resistors or special-purpose ESD protection devices. The recommended
series resistance value is 560 Ω.
A more effective method is to provide special-purpose ESD protection devices on the vulnerable traces. Note that ESD
protection devices for CapSense need to be low in capacitance. Table 4-2 lists devices recommended for use with CapSense
controllers.
Table 4-2. Low-Capacitance ESD Protection Devices Recommended for CapSense.
ESD Protection device
Manufacturer
Part Number
Input
Capacitance
Leakage
Current
Contact
Discharge
maximum limit
Air Discharge
maximum
limit
Littlefuse
SP723
5 pF
2 nA
8 kV
15 kV
Vishay
VBUS05L1-DD1
0.3 pF
0.1 µA <
±15 kV
±16 kV
NXP
NUP1301
0.75 pF
30 nA
8 kV
V
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Electrical and Mechanical Design Considerations
4.3 Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Considerations
4.3.1 Radiated Interference
Radiated electrical energy can influence system measurements and potentially influence the operation of the processor core.
The interference enters the CY8CMBR2016 CapSense Express chip at the PCB level, through CapSense button traces and
any other digital or analog inputs. The Layout guidelines for minimizing the effects of RF interference include:

Ground Plane: Provide a ground plane on the PCB.

Series Resistor: Place series resistors within 10 mm of the CapSense controller pins

The recommended series resistance for CapSense input lines is 560 ohms.

Trace Length: Minimize trace length whenever possible.

Current Loop Area: Minimize the return path for current. Hatched ground, instead of solid fill, should be provided within 1
cm of the buttons and traces to reduce the impact of parasitic capacitance.

RF Source Location: Partition systems with noise sources such as LCD inverters and switched-mode power supplies
(SMPS) to keep them separated from CapSense inputs. Shielding the power supply is another common technique for
preventing interference.
4.3.2 Conducted Immunity and Emissions
Noise entering a system through interconnections with other systems is referred to as conducted noise. These
interconnections include power and communication lines. Because CapSense controllers are low-power devices, conducted
emissions must be avoided. The following guidelines will help reduce conducted emission and immunity:

Use decoupling capacitors as recommended by the datasheet.

Add a bidirectional filter on the input to the system power supply. This is effective for both conducted emissions and
immunity. A pi-filter can prevent power supply noise from effecting sensitive parts, while also preventing the switching
noise of the part itself from coupling back to the power planes.

If the CapSense controller PCB is connected to the power supply by a cable, minimize the cable length and consider
using a shielded cable.

A ferrite bead can be placed around the power supply or communication lines to filter out high frequency noise.
4.4 Scan Line Waveform Requirements (Key Scan Interface)
You should complete a feasibility study when designing a mechanical keypad system with the CY8CMBR2016 device.
Figure 4-1 shows the basic SCAN line outputs in a typical keypad scan system. Figure 4-2 shows CY8CMBR2016’s specific
timing details.
Figure 4-1. Scan Outputs
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Electrical and Mechanical Design Considerations
Figure 4-2. Scan/Column Waveform Details
The first phase of the design feasibility study is to check that your design conforms to the polling waveforms shown in Figure
4-1 and Figure 4-2satisfies the timing details mentioned in Figure 4-2.
The next phase of the study involves checking your system’s scanning method. If you use a polling-based method, your
design is straight forward, and you can move forward. If you use an interrupt based method, the CY8CMBR2016’s interrupt
line needs to trigger polling on the SCAN lines. The interrupt line is an active high line, therefore, if there are any active
buttons, the line goes high and remains high until all buttons are released. The line should be configured to be an active high
interrupt in the host and whenever the interrupt is triggered, the host should poll the scan lines and read the button status.
4.5 PCB Layout Guidelines
Cypress has created an interactive spreadsheet, Design Toolbox to help you design a robust CY8CMBR2016 CapSense PCB
layout, as discussed in Layout Guidelines.
Detailed PCB layout guidelines are available in Getting Started with CapSense, Section 3.7.
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Low-Power Design Considerations
5. Low-Power Design Considerations
5.1 System Design Considerations
Cypress’s CY8CMBR2016 is designed to meet the low-power requirements of battery powered applications. To minimize
power consumption, take these steps:

Ground all unused CapSense inputs (CSx)

Minimize CP using the design guidelines in Getting Started with CapSense, Section 3.7.1

Reduce supply voltage (valid range is 1.71—5.5 V)

Use a higher Button Scan Rate or Deep Sleep operating mode, refer to Button Scan Rate

Connect un-used scan lines to VDD
5.2 Calculating Average Power
The design toolbox, which is the tool of choice, automates the power optimization calculations described in the following
sections. The average power consumed by the CY8CMBR2016 is determined by calculating the parameters below:
1.
Button Scan Rate, TR
2.
Scan Time, TS
3.
Average current in a NO TOUCH state, IAVE_NT
4.
Average current in a TOUCH state, IAVE_T
5.
Average use current, IAVE_U
6.
Average current, IAVE
7.
Average power, PAVE
5.2.1
Button Scan Rate (TR)
The Button Scan Rate is set using an external resistor as defined in Table 3-5.
5.2.1.1 Response Time
Response Time is the minimum amount of time a button CSx should be touched for the device to detect as valid button touch
and produce an output.
Equation 4
𝑅𝑇𝐹𝐵𝑇 = 𝐵𝑢𝑡𝑡𝑜𝑛 𝑆𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝑅𝑎𝑡𝑒 + 40 𝑚𝑠
𝑅𝑇𝐶𝐵𝑇 = 40 𝑚𝑠
Where:
RTFBT is Response Time for first button touch
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Low-Power Design Considerations
RTCBT is Response Time for consecutive button touch after first button touch
5.2.2 Scan Time (TS)
Approximate scan time can be calculated using the following equation:
𝑇𝑆 = [0.325 𝑚𝑠 × (𝐾𝐶𝑆0 + 𝐾𝐶𝑆1 + 𝐾𝐶𝑆2 + ⋯ + 𝐾𝐶𝑆15 )] + 𝑇𝐹𝑊
Equation 5
Where:
KCSx = Button Sensitivity Constant for CSx, from Table 5-1.
TFW = Firmware execution time, from Table 5-2.
Table 5-1. Button Sensitivity Constant
CP
(pF)
Button Sensitivity Constant
(K)
Button connected to Ground
0
5 pF ≤ CP ≤ 11 pF
1
11 pF < CP ≤ 22 pF
2
22 pF < CP ≤ 40 pF
4
Table 5-2. Average Current Parameters
Parameter
Typ
Max
TFW
-
5.00 ms
ISLEEP
1.07 µA
1.5 µA
TS
Equation 5
+5% from TYP value
TR
Table 3-5
±10 from Value
IACTIVE
3.4 mA
4.0 mA
5.2.3 Average Current in NO TOUCH state (IAVE_NT)
𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸_𝑁𝑇 = (
𝑇𝑅 −𝑇𝑆
𝑇𝑅
× 𝐼𝑆𝐿𝐸𝐸𝑃 ) + (
𝑇𝑆
𝑇𝑅
× 𝐼𝐴𝐶𝑇𝐼𝑉𝐸 )
Equation 6
Where:
TR = Button Scan Rate
TS = Scan time
ISLEEP = current consumed by CY8CMBR2016 during low power sleep mode, from Table 5-2
IACTIVE = current consumed by CY8CMBR2016 during active operation, from Table 5-2
5.2.4 Average Current in TOUCH state (IAVE_T)
Equation 7
𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸_𝑇
𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸_𝑇
40 𝑚𝑆 − 𝑇𝑆
𝑇𝑆
=(
× 𝐼𝑆𝐿𝐸𝐸𝑃 ) + (
× 𝐼𝐴𝐶𝑇𝐼𝑉𝐸 )
40 𝑚𝑆
40 𝑚𝑆
= 4 µ𝐴
𝑂𝑢𝑡𝑝𝑢𝑡 𝑚𝑜𝑑𝑒 ≠ 𝐾𝑒𝑦 𝑆𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝐼𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑒
𝑂𝑢𝑡𝑝𝑢𝑡 𝑚𝑜𝑑𝑒 = 𝐾𝑒𝑦 𝑆𝑐𝑎𝑛 𝐼𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑒
Where:
TS = Scan time
ISLEEP = current consumed by CY8CMBR2016 during low power sleep mode, from Table 5-2
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Low-Power Design Considerations
IACTIVE = current consumed by CY8CMBR2016 during active operation, from Table 5-2
5.2.5 Average Use Current (IAVE_U)
𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸_𝑈 = (
100−𝑃
100
× 𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸_𝑁𝑇 ) + (
𝑃
100
× 𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸_𝑇 )
Equation 8
Where:
P = percentage of time CapSense button CSx is in the TOUCH state compared to total time CY8CMBR2016 is on
IAVG_NT = average current in the NO TOUCH state
IAVG_T = average current in the TOUCH state
5.2.6 Average Current (IAVE)
𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸 = [𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸_𝑈 × (
𝑇𝑆𝐴
𝑇𝐷𝑆 +𝑇𝑆𝐴
)] + 0.1 µ𝐴
Equation 9
Where:
TSA = time device is not in deep sleep mode
TDS = time device is in deep sleep mode
5.2.7 Average Power (PAVE)
𝑃𝐴𝑉𝐸 = 𝑉𝐷𝐷 × 𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸
Equation 10
Where:
IAVE = average current
VDD = supply voltage
5.2.8 Example Calculation
As an example of how to calculate average power, consider a CapSense user interface with nine well-designed buttons. The
CP for all nine buttons is 10—20 pF. The Encoded 4-bit Output Interface is selected. The Button Scan Rate is set to 150 ms
(Medium).
The scan time can be calculated from Equation 5, with the Button sensitivity constant obtained from Table 5-1, and the typical
value for firmware execution time from Table 5-2.
𝑇𝑆 = [0.325 𝑚𝑠 × (9 × 2)] + 5.00 = 10.85 𝑚𝑠
The average current in NO TOUCH state is calculated as follows using Equation 6 and the maximum values for ISLEEP and
IACTIVE from Table 5-2.
𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸_𝑁𝑇 = (
150−10.85
150
× 1.50 µ𝐴) + (
10.85
150
× 4.0 𝑚𝐴) = 290.72 µ𝐴
The average current in TOUCH state is calculated as follows using Equation 7:
𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸_𝑇 = (
40−10.85
40
× 1.50 µ𝐴) + (
10.85
40
× 4.0 𝑚𝐴) = 1086.1 µ𝐴
To calculate the average current, assume the user touches a CapSense button for three seconds every minute. This means
your design operates in a TOUCH state about five percent of the day during which the device is turned on. The average
current consumption of the design is calculated as follows using Equation 8:
𝐼𝐴𝑉𝐸_𝑈 = (0.05 × 1086.1 µ𝐴) + (0.95 × 290.72 µ𝐴) = 330.5 µ𝐴
Assuming this design does not utilize deep sleep mode and that it operates at 1.71 V the average power is calculated as
follows using Equation 10:
𝑃𝐴𝑉𝐸 = 1.71 × 330.5 µ𝐴 = 565.2 µ𝑊
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Low-Power Design Considerations
5.3 Sleep Modes
Cypress’s CY8CMBR2016 can be configured to operate in either low-power sleep mode or deep sleep mode. These modes
reduce the power consumption of the device.
5.3.1 Low-Power Sleep Mode
When the CY8CMBR2016 device operates in low power sleep mode, the device draws 1 µA when not scanning the CS inputs.
The button scan rate determines the amount of time the device sleeps. The behavior of the CY8CMBR2016 controller in lowpower sleep mode is described in Figure 5-1.
Figure 5-1. Low-Power Sleep Mode
Mode =
CONTINUOUS?
Yes
Scan Continuously
No
Scan all buttons at 40 ms
Button Scan Rate
Yes
NO button
touched for 2
secs?
No
Yes
Scan all buttons at user
defined scan rate
No
Is any button
active?
Because low-power sleep mode does not require a host processor to operate, it is also referred to as standalone mode.
5.3.2 Deep Sleep Mode
If you use the CY8CMBR2016 in a system with a host processor, the Sleep pin can be used to operate the device in deep
sleep mode.
When the host processor provides logic high to the Sleep pin, the CY8CMBR2016 enters deep sleep mode. In this mode all
ongoing communication is suspended and the device consumes ~0.1 µA current.
When the host processor drives a GND signal to the Sleep pin the CY8CMBR2010 wakes up from deep sleep and operates in
low-power sleep mode. When the device comes out of deep sleep mode, the CapSense system is reinitialized. Typical time for
re-initialization is 8 ms. Any button press within this time is not reported.
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Resources
6. Resources
6.1 Website
Visit Cypress’s CapSense Express Controllers website to access all of the reference material discussed in this section.
Find a variety of technical resources for the CY8CMBR2016 CapSense Express device on the CY8CMBR2016 web page.
6.2 Datasheet
The datasheet for the CapSense CY8CMBR2016 device is available here.
6.3 Kits
Visit our partner website for supported evaluation kit for CY8CMBR2016.
6.4 Design Toolbox
Cypress has created an interactive spreadsheet, the Design Toolbox, to help you rapidly design a robust and reliable
CY8CMBR2016 CapSense solution.
6.5 Sample Board Files
Cypress offers sample schematic and board files, which can be used as a reference to quickly complete your PCB design
process.
6.6 MultiChart
MultiChart is a simple PC tool for real-time CapSense data viewing and logging. The application allows you to view data from
up to 48 sensors, save and print charts, and save data for later analysis in a spreadsheet.
6.7 Design Support
Cypress has a variety of design support channels to ensure the success of your CapSense solutions.
Knowledge Base Articles – Refer to technical articles by product family or perform a search on various CapSense topics.
CapSense Application Notes – Refer to a wide variety of application notes built on information presented in this document.
White Papers – Learn about advanced capacitive-touch interface topics.
Cypress Developer Community – Connect with the Cypress technical community and exchange information.
CapSense Product Selector Guide – See the complete product offering of Cypress’s CapSense product line.
Video Library – Quickly get up to speed with tutorial videos
Quality & Reliability – Cypress is committed to complete customer satisfaction. At our Quality website you can find reliability
and product qualification reports.
Technical Support – World class technical support is available online.
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Appendix
7. Appendix
7.1 Schematic Examples
7.1.1 Schematic 1: 16 Buttons with Key Scan Output Mode
Figure 7-1. Schematic 1
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Scan
Lines
(ODL
Mode)
Appendix
Scan
Lines
SCAN_0
SCAN_1
SCAN_2
INT
Read
Lines
(Strong
Drive)
READ_0
Read
Lines
Host
Host
HDR
SCAN_3
READ_1
READ_2
READ_3
INT Line
X
Mechanical
Keypad
In Schematic 1, CY8CMBR2016 is configured as follows:

16 CapSense buttons

Key Scan Interface

Continuous scan mode

High sensitivity for all buttons

FSS enabled

Button Auto Reset disabled

Serial Debug Data Out disabled

DC Buzzer output

Reset button

Interrupt line output
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Appendix
7.1.2 Schematic 2: 16 Buttons with Truth Table Output Mode
Figure 7-2. Schematic 2
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Appendix
In Schematic 2, CY8CMBR2016 is configured as follows:

16 CapSense buttons

Truth Table Output configured to drive LEDs

Continuous Scan mode

High sensitivity for all buttons

FSS disabled

Button Auto Reset enabled, with a period of 5 seconds

Serial Debug Data Out enabled

DC Buzzer output

Reset button

Interrupt line output
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Glossary
Glossary
AMUXBUS
Analog multiplexer bus available inside PSoC that helps to connect I/O pins with multiple internal analog signals.
SmartSense™ Auto-Tuning
A CapSense algorithm that automatically sets sensing parameters for optimal performance after the design phase
and continuously compensates for system, manufacturing, and environmental changes.
Baseline
A value resulting from a firmware algorithm that estimates a trend in the Raw Count when there is no human
finger present on the sensor. The Baseline is less sensitive to sudden changes in the Raw Count and provides a
reference point for computing the Difference Count.
Button or Button Widget
A widget with an associated sensor that can report the active or inactive state (that is, only two states) of the
sensor. For example, it can detect the touch or no-touch state of a finger on the sensor.
Difference Count
The difference between Raw Count and Baseline. If the difference is negative, or if it is below Noise Threshold,
the Difference Count is always set to zero.
Capacitive Sensor
A conductor and substrate, such as a copper button on a printed circuit board (PCB), which reacts to a touch or
an approaching object with a change in capacitance.
CapSense®
Cypress’s touch-sensing user interface solution. The industry’s No. 1 solution in sales by 4x over No. 2.
CapSense Mechanical Button Replacement (MBR)
Cypress’s configurable solution to upgrade mechanical buttons to capacitive buttons, requires minimal
engineering effort to configure the sensor parameters and does not require firmware development. These devices
include the CY8CMBR3XXX and CY8CMBR2XXX families.
Centroid or Centroid Position
A number indicating the finger position on a slider within the range given by the Slider Resolution. This number is
calculated by the CapSense centroid calculation algorithm.
Compensation IDAC
A programmable constant current source, which is used by CSD to compensate for excess sensor C P. This IDAC
is not controlled by the Sigma-Delta Modulator in the CSD block unlike the Modulation IDAC.
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Glossary
CSD
CapSense Sigma Delta (CSD) is a Cypress-patented method of performing self-capacitance (also called self-cap)
measurements for capacitive sensing applications.
In CSD mode, the sensing system measures the self-capacitance of an electrode, and a change in the selfcapacitance is detected to identify the presence or absence of a finger.
Debounce
A parameter that defines the number of consecutive scan samples for which the touch should be present for it to
become valid. This parameter helps to reject spurious touch signals.
A finger touch is reported only if the Difference Count is greater than Finger Threshold + Hysteresis for a
consecutive Debounce number of scan samples.
Driven-Shield
A technique used by CSD for enabling liquid tolerance in which the Shield Electrode is driven by a signal that is
equal to the sensor switching signal in phase and amplitude.
Electrode
A conductive material such as a pad or a layer on PCB, ITO, or FPCB. The electrode is connected to a port pin on
a CapSense device and is used as a CapSense sensor or to drive specific signals associated with CapSense
functionality.
Finger Threshold
A parameter used with Hysteresis to determine the state of the sensor. Sensor state is reported ON if the
Difference Count is higher than Finger Threshold + Hysteresis, and it is reported OFF if the Difference Count is
below Finger Threshold – Hysteresis.
Ganged Sensors
The method of connecting multiple sensors together and scanning them as a single sensor. Used for increasing
the sensor area for proximity sensing and to reduce power consumption.
To reduce power when the system is in low-power mode, all the sensors can be ganged together and scanned as
a single sensor taking less time instead of scanning all the sensors individually. When the user touches any of the
sensors, the system can transition into active mode where it scans all the sensors individually to detect which
sensor is activated.
PSoC supports sensor-ganging in firmware, that is, multiple sensors can be connected simultaneously to
AMUXBUS for scanning.
Gesture
Gesture is an action, such as swiping and pinch-zoom, performed by the user. CapSense has a gesture detection
feature that identifies the different gestures based on predefined touch patterns. In the CapSense component, the
Gesture feature is supported only by the Touchpad Widget.
Guard Sensor
Copper trace that surrounds all the sensors on the PCB, similar to a button sensor and is used to detect a liquid
stream. When the Guard Sensor is triggered, firmware can disable scanning of all other sensors to prevent false
touches.
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Glossary
Hatch Fill or Hatch Ground or Hatched Ground
While designing a PCB for capacitive sensing, a grounded copper plane should be placed surrounding the
sensors for good noise immunity. But a solid ground increases the parasitic capacitance of the sensor which is
not desired. Therefore, the ground should be filled in a special hatch pattern. A hatch pattern has closely-placed,
crisscrossed lines looking like a mesh and the line width and the spacing between two lines determine the fill
percentage. In case of liquid tolerance, this hatch fill referred as a shield electrode is driven with a shield signal
instead of ground.
Hysteresis
A parameter used to prevent the sensor status output from random toggling due to system noise, used in
conjunction with the Finger Threshold to determine the sensor state. See Finger Threshold.
IDAC (Current-Output Digital-to-Analog Converter)
Programmable constant current source available inside PSoC, used for CapSense and ADC operations.
Liquid Tolerance
The ability of a capacitive sensing system to work reliably in the presence of liquid droplets, streaming liquids or
mist.
Linear Slider
A widget consisting of more than one sensor arranged in a specific linear fashion to detect the physical position
(in single axis) of a finger.
Low Baseline Reset
A parameter that represents the maximum number of scan samples where the Raw Count is abnormally below
the Negative Noise Threshold. If the Low Baseline Reset value is exceeded, the Baseline is reset to the current
Raw Count.
Manual-Tuning
The manual process of setting (or tuning) the CapSense parameters.
Matrix Buttons
A widget consisting of more than two sensors arranged in a matrix fashion, used to detect the presence or
absence of a human finger (a touch) on the intersections of vertically and horizontally arranged sensors.
If M is the number of sensors on the horizontal axis and N is the number of sensors on the vertical axis, the Matrix
Buttons Widget can monitor a total of M x N intersections using ONLY M + N port pins.
When using the CSD sensing method (self-capacitance), this Widget can detect a valid touch on only one
intersection position at a time.
Modulation Capacitor (CMOD)
An external capacitor required for the operation of a CSD block in Self-Capacitance sensing mode.
Modulator Clock
A clock source that is used to sample the modulator output from a CSD block during a sensor scan. This clock is
also fed to the Raw Count counter. The scan time (excluding pre and post processing times) is given by
(2N – 1)/Modulator Clock Frequency, where N is the Scan Resolution.
Modulation IDAC
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Glossary
Modulation IDAC is a programmable constant current source, whose output is controlled (ON/OFF) by the sigmadelta modulator output in a CSD block to maintain the AMUXBUS voltage at V REF. The average current supplied
by this IDAC is equal to the average current drawn out by the sensor capacitor.
Mutual-Capacitance
Capacitance associated with an electrode (say TX) with respect to another electrode (say RX) is known as mutual
capacitance.
Negative Noise Threshold
A threshold used to differentiate usual noise from the spurious signals appearing in negative direction. This
parameter is used in conjunction with the Low Baseline Reset parameter.
Baseline is updated to track the change in the Raw Count as long as the Raw Count stays within Negative Noise
Threshold, that is, the difference between Baseline and Raw count (Baseline – Raw count) is less than Negative
Noise Threshold.
Scenarios that may trigger such spurious signals in a negative direction include: a finger on the sensor on powerup, removal of a metal object placed near the sensor, removing a liquid-tolerant CapSense-enabled product from
the water; and other sudden environmental changes.
Noise (CapSense Noise)
The variation in the Raw Count when a sensor is in the OFF state (no touch), measured as peak-to-peak counts.
Noise Threshold
A parameter used to differentiate signal from noise for a sensor. If Raw Count – Baseline is greater than Noise
Threshold, it indicates a likely valid signal. If the difference is less than Noise Threshold, Raw Count contains
nothing but noise.
Overlay
A non-conductive material, such as plastic and glass, which covers the capacitive sensors and acts as a touchsurface. The PCB with the sensors is directly placed under the overlay or is connected through springs. The
casing for a product often becomes the overlay.
Parasitic Capacitance (CP)
Parasitic capacitance is the intrinsic capacitance of the sensor electrode contributed by PCB trace, sensor pad,
vias, and air gap. It is unwanted because it reduces the sensitivity of CSD.
Proximity Sensor
A sensor that can detect the presence of nearby objects without any physical contact.
Radial Slider
A widget consisting of more than one sensor arranged in a specific circular fashion to detect the physical position
of a finger.
Raw Count
The unprocessed digital count output of the CapSense hardware block that represents the physical capacitance
of the sensor.
Refresh Interval
The time between two consecutive scans of a sensor.
Scan Resolution
Resolution (in bits) of the Raw Count produced by the CSD block.
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Glossary
Scan Time
Time taken for completing the scan of a sensor.
Self-Capacitance
The capacitance associated with an electrode with respect to circuit ground.
Sensitivity
The change in Raw Count corresponding to the change in sensor capacitance, expressed in counts/pF.
Sensitivity of a sensor is dependent on the board layout, overlay properties, sensing method, and tuning
parameters.
Sense Clock
A clock source used to implement a switched-capacitor front-end for the CSD sensing method.
Sensor
See Capacitive Sensor.
Sensor Auto Reset
A setting to prevent a sensor from reporting false touch status indefinitely due to system failure, or when a metal
object is continuously present near the sensor.
When Sensor Auto Reset is enabled, the Baseline is always updated even if the Difference Count is greater than
the Noise Threshold. This prevents the sensor from reporting the ON status for an indefinite period of time. When
Sensor Auto Reset is disabled, the Baseline is updated only when the Difference Count is less than the Noise
Threshold.
Sensor Ganging
See Ganged Sensors.
Shield Electrode
Copper fill around sensors to prevent false touches due to the presence of water or other liquids. Shield Electrode
is driven by the shield signal output from the CSD block. See Driven-Shield.
Shield Tank Capacitor (CSH)
An optional external capacitor (CSH Tank Capacitor) used to enhance the drive capability of the CSD shield, when
there is a large shield layer with high parasitic capacitance.
Signal (CapSense Signal)
Difference Count is also called Signal. See Difference Count.
Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)
The ratio of the sensor signal, when touched, to the noise signal of an untouched sensor.
Slider Resolution
A parameter indicating the total number of finger positions to be resolved on a slider.
Touchpad
A Widget consisting of multiple sensors arranged in a specific horizontal and vertical fashion to detect the X and Y
position of a touch.
Trackpad
See Touchpad.
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Glossary
Tuning
The process of finding the optimum values for various hardware and software or threshold parameters required
for CapSense operation.
VREF
Programmable reference voltage block available inside PSoC used for CapSense and ADC operation.
Widget
A user-interface element in the CapSense component that consists of one sensor or a group of similar sensors.
Button, proximity sensor, linear slider, radial slider, matrix buttons, and touchpad are the supported widgets.
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Revision History
Revision History
Document Revision History
Document Title: AN73034 - CY8CMBR2016 CapSense® Design Guide
Document Number: 001-73034
Revision
Issue Date
Origin of Change
Description of Change
**
01/02/2012
MSUR
New design guide.
*A
10/17/2012
UDYG
Multiple updates to design guide.
*B
09/02/2014
SSHH
Updated Figure 7-2.
*C
02/04/2015
SSHH
Sunset review; no content update.
*D
04/22/2015
MQJ
Added AN73034 in the spec title
*E
01/21/2016
VAIR
Added Glossary.
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