ST delivers sensing accuracy with integrated low-side current-measurement amplifier

STMicroelectronics’ TSC1801 low-side current-measurement amplifier integrates matched resistors to set the gain, which simplifies the circuit design and ensures gain accuracy within 0.15% over the entire temperature range.

The TSC1801 low-side current-measurement amplifier delivers much greater accuracy Credit: ST

The fixed gain also eliminates production trimming of external resistors.

Combining very high accuracy and wide bandwidth, the TSC1801 is used for motor control, solar power conditioning, high-bandwidth current sensing, and automotive power conditioning. The first gain value offered is 20V/V, with 5V/V and 50V/V models to follow.

Capable of bidirectional current sensing, the amplifier has been optimised for use with precision low-value shunt (sense) resistors at low common-mode voltages. The architecture, dedicated to low-side sensing, permits tightly controlled parameters, including total output error better than 0.5% and offset voltage of ±200μV (max).

The TSC1801’s 2.1MHz bandwidth rating allows pulse-by-pulse current control even in very high-frequency power-management systems, translating to tangible benefits such as smoother torque adjustment for lower vibration in motor drives. The amplifier’s fast response also ensures rapid over-current detection, protecting sensitive output-stage components against being damaged in the event of a fault.

The device can accommodate a wide supply voltage range (2.0V to 5.5V) with an operating temperature range of -40°C to +125°C. Automotive versions are available, qualified and characterised according to AEC-Q100 and Q003 or equivalent, with advanced screening according to AEC Q001 and Q002 or equivalent.

In addition to its use in automotive and motor-control applications, the TSC1801 is expected to find applications in industrial, server and telecom infrastructure power conversion, power factor correction and high-accuracy signal conditioning.

The industrial-grade TSC1801BILT with fixed gain of 20V/V is in production now in a 6-lead SOT23 dual-in-line package,