RIVERSIDE, Calif., May 10, 2011 - Bourns, Inc., has announced a new combined torque and angle sensor designed for Electric Power Assisted Steering Applications (EPAS) and other automotive systems. The new combined sensor provides torque and steering angle measurement in a single package, replacing two discrete sensors for significant space and cost savings. Based on Bourns’ Hall Effect (HE) non-clockspring torque sensor technology, the combined sensor uses driver input to measure the steering torque while simultaneously converting the rotation speed and direction of the steering wheel. The torque portion of the sensor is designed specifically for EPAS, and the steering angle signal can be used in a variety of automotive systems including Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Advanced Front Lighting Systems (AFLS), Navigation, and Assisted Parking Systems.

“Bourns has more than 14 years experience in delivering proven steering angle and torque sensors, and is committed to continued innovation,” said Johneric Leach, product line manager for steering and vehicle stability sensors at Bourns. “Using this experience to combine technologies into a single functional package demonstrates our innovation, and Bourns has made a significant investment in extensive trials and testing to ensure this product meets customer expectations and next-generation automotive requirements.”

Bourns offers several variations of its new combined torque and angle sensor to meet customer requirements. Variations include dual and single channel options on the torque portion depending on redundancy requirements, and the steering angle sensor can support incremental or absolute measurement. The new Bourns® torque and angle sensor is suitable for column or rack mounted EPAS. For rack-mounted applications, the combined sensor has been designed to sustain temperatures from -40 °C to +140 °C. The new device provides CAN steering sensor output in addition to an analog torque signal. The torque sensor output can also be configured to support PAS4, PSI5 and PWM outputs.

Bourns will make its combined torque and steering angle sensor available to a select group of customers. Product validation is currently being conducted with two of the world’s largest EPAS suppliers.

About Bourns

Bourns, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and supplier of automotive sensors, circuit protection solutions, magnetic products, microelectronic modules, trimming and precision potentiometers, panel controls and encoders and resistive products. Headquartered in Riverside, CA, Bourns serves a broad range of markets, including telecommunications, computer, industrial, instrumentation, automotive, consumer, non-critical life support medical, audio and various other market segments. Bourns® products are manufactured according to ISO-9000 standards under Six Sigma quality programs. Bourns® automotive products are manufactured in accordance with the TS16949 standard. Additional company and product information is available at the company’s website at www.bourns.com

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