STMicroelectronics has introduced new, advanced current-sense amplifiers called the TSC103 and the TSC1031 for accurate current measurements.
Precise measurements of current are particularly important when managing the power line in industrial, telecom and automotive equipment. Accurate current measurements can help identify problems in the event of jammed motor or failed power supply and can also optimize electricity consumption.
Current is normally detected by utilizing a number of conventional amplifiers and a shunt resistor. This technique is complex and presents a lot of problems such as inaccurate power measurement and high power losses.
ST’s TSC103 is an advanced current-sense amplifier that connects directly to the power lines even at high voltages. This technique requires a sensing resistor and consumes less electricity compared to the traditional devices.
Unlike other devices, the TSC103 can measure current more precisely and can accept a common-mode input ranging from 2.9 V to about 70 V. The input range can also be configured from -2.1 V to 65 V. The output, which is relative to the measured electricity, can be directly joined to the microcontroller’s analog input.
The TSC1031 is yet another amplifier that can maintain performance even under electrically noisy conditions. Both amplifiers are offered in TSSOP8 and SO8 packages.
Source: http://www.st.com