CapSense theory question

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Anonymous
Not applicable

Hello,

   

I have already read "Getting started with CapSense" and the "PSoC3 and PSoC5LP CapSense Design Guide" but I still have a question regarding how CapSense works. In the design guide you will find figure 2-3 CapSense CSD Block Diagramm. For example I start scanning whether Button1 is pressed or not. CMOD is charged via SW3 and the source current. If the voltage equals a reference, the sigma delta converter opens SW3. The converter counts the ticks, how long SW3 is closed. From the amount of ticks you can say if the button is pressed or not.

   

What I don't understand is SW2 and SW1. I started the scanning and SW3 is open since CMOD is charged. Then SW1 and SW2 are opening and closing alternatively. Lets say the button is pressed and SW1 is closed and so SW2 is open. Cx is discharging CMOD depending on the capacitance of  Cx. Then SW1 and SW2 change states so Cx is being discharged. And this will repeat several times.

   

Is CMOD charged completely again in one cycle, so if SW1 closes again, SW3 will be open or can it happen, that when SW1 is closed, SW3 is closed as well?

   

 

   

Best regards.

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3 Replies
Bob_Marlowe
Level 10
Level 10
First like given 50 questions asked 10 questions asked

To be honest, Dominik, I never ever cared for those internals and used the Cypress-components as-they-are. Since there is a bit more behind CapSense internally as IDACs, baselines and de-bouncing I tended to simply use the component. A challenging process might be to use a tuner for CapSense buttons to adapt their specs to the used layout and optimize the performance.

   

When you have got one of  the development kits CY8CKIT-050, -044 or -042(BLE) you can have a look into the schematics at how the CapSense hardware components are connected.

   

 

   

Bob

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ETRO_SSN583
Level 9
Level 9
250 likes received 100 sign-ins 5 likes given

If you want to pursue the deep dive file a CASE, the CapSense guys very knowledgeable

   

and helpful.

   

 

   

To create a technical or issue case at Cypress -

   

 

   

www.cypress.com

   

“Support”

   

“Technical Support”

   

“Create a Case”

   

 

   

You have to be registered on Cypress web site first.

   

 

   

Regards, Dana.

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Anonymous
Not applicable

Since I need this for a project description I will open a case. 🙂

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