STMicro debuts low-side current-measurement amplifier

The fixed gain also eliminates production trimming of external resistors.

Offering 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 is 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 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.

As well as 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.