MPXA4115A6U - 15-115 kPa Absolute Pressure Sensor | NXP
MPN: MPXA4115A6U ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18.5 | $18.50 |
| 10 | $16.2 | $162.00 |
| 100 | $13.85 | $1,385.00 |
| 500 | $12.1 | $6,050.00 |
| 1,000 | $10.5 | $10,500.00 |
MPXA4115A6U Overview
An absolute pressure sensor is a transducer that measures pressure relative to a sealed vacuum reference rather than ambient atmosphere, producing an output signal that corresponds to the total pressure applied to its sensing element. The MPXA4115A6U belongs to the broader category of piezoresistive MEMS pressure sensors, which sit within the sensor hierarchy: pressure sensor -> MEMS sensor -> transducer -> electronic component. The on-chip bipolar op-amp and thin-film resistor network convert the tiny piezoresistive bridge output into a buffered, temperature-compensated analog voltage, eliminating the need for external signal conditioning.
Key features of the MPXA4115A6U include a 15 kPa to 115 kPa absolute pressure range (suitable for one-atmosphere barometric sensing and natural-aspirated manifold pressures), a 0.2 V to 4.8 V ratiometric analog output (compatible with 5 V ADC inputs), and a typical sensitivity of 46 mV/kPa. The integrated temperature compensation covers 0C to +85C, while media-resistant construction protects the die from harsh gas and liquid exposure. The 5.0 V typical operating voltage and <10 mA supply current make it directly usable in automotive and industrial 5 V systems.
The device employs a monolithic piezoresistive bridge laser-trimmed for offset and span, followed by a precision bipolar op-amp stage. This architecture yields a typical accuracy of ±1.5% over the compensated temperature range, with the calibration stored on-chip so each part is interchangeable without system-level trim.
Typical applications include automotive engine control (MAP sensing for fuel injection), HVAC barometric compensation, weather stations and altimeters, medical respiratory equipment, and industrial pneumatic monitoring. For motorcycle and small-engine ECUs where space is constrained, the axial-port SMD package simplifies manifold mounting.
When designing with this part, decouple VCC with a 100 nF ceramic capacitor placed within 5 mm of the supply pin and ensure the pressure port is protected from condensation. Ratiometric output means the ADC reference should be tied to VCC for best accuracy.
Drop-in alternatives for MPXA4115A6U — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with MPXA4115A6U (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Output Type, Sensitivity, Operating Temperature, Supply Voltage, Port Style.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MPXAZ4115A6U
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$7.1 / Unit
View Datasheet →MPXA4115A6T1
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$6.65 / Unit
View Datasheet →MPXA6115AC6U
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$9.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →MPXA4250AC6U
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$9.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →MPXA4115AP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$14.2 / Unit
View Datasheet →MPXA4115A6U Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Pressure Type | Absolute |
| Pressure Range | 15 kPa to 115 kPa (2.18 PSI to 16.68 PSI) |
| Operating Pressure Max | 400 kPa |
| Output Type | Analog Voltage |
| Output Voltage Range | 0.2 V to 4.8 V |
| Sensitivity | 46 mV/kPa typical |
| Supply Voltage | 4.7 V to 5.3 V (5.0 V typical) |
| Accuracy | ±1.5% (0C to 85C) |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C |
| Compensated Temperature | 0C to +85C |
| Port Style | Axial (axial-port) |
| Package / Case | 8-SMD Module |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Media Resistant | Yes |
MPXA4115A6U Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | VCC — 5 V supply input |
| Pin 2 | VOUT — Analog ratiometric output (0.2 V to 4.8 V) |
| Pin 3 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 4 | NC — Not connected (mechanical pad per datasheet) |
| Pin 5 | NC — Not connected (mechanical pad per datasheet) |
| Pin 6 | NC — Not connected (mechanical pad per datasheet) |
| Pin 7 | NC — Not connected (mechanical pad per datasheet) |
| Pin 8 | NC — Not connected (mechanical pad per datasheet) |
Typical Applications
MPXA4115A6U is suitable for 6 applications: Automotive Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensing, Barometric Pressure Measurement for Weather Stations, HVAC and Indoor Air Pressure Monitoring, Altitude Sensing for Drones and UAVs, Medical Respiratory Flow and Pressure Monitoring, Industrial Pneumatic Pressure Switch.
Automotive Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensing
The MPXA4115A6U is the canonical MAP sensor for fuel-injected motorcycle, ATV, and small-engine ECUs because its 15-115 kPa absolute range covers one atmosphere plus boost up to ~75 kPa (0.75 bar), and its 0.2-4.8 V ratiometric output connects directly to a 5 V ADC. Unlike a gauge sensor, the absolute vacuum reference produces a clean signal that does not drift with barometric changes, which is essential for closed-loop fueling and ignition timing. Place the sensor on the intake manifold with a short, airtight hose; expect ±1.5% accuracy across 0-85C with no external calibration. Trade-off: at full boost the output sits near 4.5 V, so an op-amp buffer may be needed if the ECU ADC tops out at 3.3 V.
Recommended
Barometric Pressure Measurement for Weather Stations
The MPXA4115A6U delivers ±1.5% absolute pressure accuracy from 15-115 kPa, which translates to altitude resolution of roughly ±8 m at sea level when paired with a 24-bit ADC. Its ratiometric 0.2-4.8 V output and 5 V supply match the typical microcontroller ADC rails found in hobby weather stations and home weather instruments. The on-chip temperature compensation eliminates the barometric error that plagues raw piezoresistive bridges, so no software lookup table is required. Compared with digital I2C barometers like the BMP280, the MPXA4115A6U trades digital convenience for a true analog output that filters cleanly through an RC network, and a rugged media-resistant port that tolerates outdoor humidity.
Recommended
HVAC and Indoor Air Pressure Monitoring
Building HVAC systems use the MPXA4115A6U to monitor duct static pressure and indoor-outdoor pressure differential for energy-efficient variable-air-volume (VAV) control. The 0.2-4.8 V output corresponds directly to the 0-1 inH2O differential range used in commercial ductwork, and the -40 to +125C operating range covers rooftop and basement installations. The media-resistant port tolerates dusty airstreams that would clog unprotected sensors. Compared with capacitive differential sensors, the MPXA4115A6U is single-port absolute, so two sensors are needed for differential readings, but cost per node is far lower at under $15 at qty 100.
Recommended
Altitude Sensing for Drones and UAVs
Drones and UAVs use the MPXA4115A6U as a primary or backup altitude reference because its 15-115 kPa range covers ground level (101 kPa) up to ~5000 m (54 kPa) altitude. The 0.2-4.8 V ratiometric output feeds the flight controller ADC with no scaling, and the 5 V supply is already present on every flight controller board. For alt-hold modes, the sensor provides ±1.5% accuracy which translates to ~1 m altitude hold precision at low altitudes after averaging. The axial pressure port accepts a short tube to the outside, protecting the die from prop wash. Compared with digital barometers, the analog output requires an extra ADC channel but is far more robust to I2C bus noise from switching ESCs.
Recommended
Medical Respiratory Flow and Pressure Monitoring
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines and ventilator circuits use the MPXA4115A6U to sense patient-circuit pressure between 15 and 115 kPa absolute, ensuring the pneumatic system delivers therapy pressure within ±1.5% of setpoint. The media-resistant port tolerates humidified breathing gas, and the on-chip calibration reduces BOM cost in mid-volume medical devices. The analog output also simplifies FDA documentation since the signal chain is short and reviewable. Trade-off: for sub-atmospheric (negative) pressure applications such as chest-drain monitoring, an additional amplifier or a different MPX series (e.g., MPX5050) is required.
Recommended
Industrial Pneumatic Pressure Switch
Industrial pneumatic systems use the MPXA4115A6U as a configurable pressure trip-point sensor for compressor cut-off and filter-clog detection at 6-8 bar line pressures (note: requires pre-regulation to 115 kPa maximum). The 0.2-4.8 V ratiometric output feeds a window comparator that trips at preset pressures, replacing mechanical pressure switches that drift and wear out. The -40 to +125C operating range covers factory-floor and outdoor enclosures, and the media-resistant port survives oil-laden pneumatic streams. Compared with mechanical switches, the solid-state MPXA4115A6U has infinite cycle life and 1 ms response time, ideal for high-cycle pneumatic production lines.
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MPXA4115A6U — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MPXAZ4115A6U | MPXA4115A6T1 | MPXA6115AC6U | MPXA4250AC6U | MPXA4115AP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 8-SMD Module (axial port) | 8-SMD Module (vertical port) | 8-SMD Module (axial port) | 8-SMD Module (axial port) | 8-SMD Module (axial port) | 8-SMD Module (axial port) |
| Brand | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors | NXP Semiconductors |
| Pressure Range | 15-115 kPa | 15-115 kPa | 15-115 kPa | 15-150 kPa | 20-250 kPa | 15-115 kPa |
| Output Voltage | 0.2 V to 4.8 V | 0.2 V to 4.8 V | 0.2 V to 4.8 V | 0.2 V to 4.8 V | 0.2 V to 4.9 V | 0.2 V to 4.8 V |
| Sensitivity | 46 mV/kPa | 46 mV/kPa | 46 mV/kPa | 36 mV/kPa | 20 mV/kPa | 46 mV/kPa |
| Supply Voltage | 4.7 V to 5.3 V | 4.7 V to 5.3 V | 4.7 V to 5.3 V | 4.7 V to 5.3 V | 4.85 V to 5.35 V | 4.7 V to 5.3 V |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C | -40C to +125C |
| Compensated Temperature | 0C to +85C | 0C to +85C | 0C to +85C | -40C to +125C | 0C to +85C | 0C to +85C |
Key Differentiators
- Widest pin-compatible drop-in family in the 8-SMD module form factor (vs MPXA6115AC6U)
- Ratiometric output for ADC-friendly direct interface (vs Digital barometric sensors (e.g. BMP280))
- On-chip calibration removes per-part trim from production (vs Raw piezoresistive bridges)
Design Notes
Place a 100 nF X7R ceramic decoupling capacitor within 5 mm of the VCC pin (pin 1). The MPXA4115A6U has on-chip conditioning but the op-amp can oscillate if VCC impedance rises above 1 ohm at high frequency. Bulk 10 uF tantalum is recommended for systems with long VCC traces. Ratiometric output means the ADC reference MUST be derived from the same 5 V supply for the 0.2-4.8 V transfer function to remain accurate; if the ADC uses an internal 3.3 V reference, the output span will be compressed by 33% and resolution will degrade.
Although the compensated range is 0C to +85C, the device operates from -40C to +125C with reduced accuracy outside the compensated band. Estimated: above 85C expect roughly ±3% additional error due to bridge offset drift. For under-hood automotive mounting, ensure the plastic housing is not in contact with hot exhaust or manifold components; the gel-filled port can withstand 125C ambient but localized heating from a manifold can exceed this. Add a heat shield or remote-mount via 50 mm silicone hose.
Solder the 8-SMD module to a 1 oz copper land pattern with no thermal relief on the GND pads (pins 3-8 tied to ground plane). The five mechanical pads (pins 4-8) should be soldered to provide mechanical rigidity against the axial pressure-port torque during hose attachment. The VOUT pad (pin 2) should be routed with a 0.3 mm trace to the ADC, kept short and away from switching converters or PWM signals to avoid coupling noise into the analog output. Add a 100 nF + 10 uF RC low-pass filter (R=1 kohm, C=100 nF) at the ADC input for 1.6 kHz cutoff.
Do NOT expose the pressure port to water jets or direct rain without IP-rated enclosure; the gel-covered port is media-resistant against humid air but not against direct liquid impingement. Do NOT connect VCC above 5.3 V or below 4.7 V - the internal op-amp is designed for a 5 V nominal supply and accuracy degrades sharply outside this band. Do NOT hot-plug the supply without sequencing; the ratiometric transfer function assumes VCC is at its final value when sampled. Do NOT block the port with sealant; pressure must reach the die.
Compliance Information
MPXA4115A6U is commercial/industrial grade; for AEC-Q100 qualified equivalents check MPX4115A-Q1 series. RoHS and REACH compliance per NXP product page.
