Typical current sensing techniques that use a Hall Effect sensor or a resistive shunt deliver an analog output that requires additional circuitry for use in digital control circuits. Micro Oscillator Inc. has introduced an isolated high-side DC current sensor that provides a uni-directional current sensing system with a frequency output. The pulsed output of the ICS I-A1 current sensor eliminates the need for electronic sampling and A/D converter circuitry. The current measurement is performed by a current frequency converter that utilizes an integrator. The ratio of gain resistor to sensor resistor resistance values determines the ratio of sense current to integrator input current level. The internal sense resistor has a maximum 10A rating.
Specified for a -40°C to 85°C operating temperature range, the unit’s accuracy over temperature is 0.5% (from -40°C to 85°C), accuracy over voltage is 0.5% (from VS=10 to 16V) and total accuracy is 2.5%. An optocoupler provides 2 KVRMS isolation voltage between the current sensor and the output.
For more information on Micro Oscillator, Inc.’s ICS I-A1, click here