Open-Loop Current Sensor simplifies manufacturing.

Press Release Summary:



Fully integrated Model ACS750ECA-100 ±100 A current sensor comes in 10 x 13 x 7 mm package, which consists of 2 primary power conductive leads that allow current to pass through ferrite core over sensing element of Hall IC. Bandwidth is 13 KHz and internal resistance is less than 1 mOhm. Power leads are electrically isolated from sensing circuitry, allowing use in applications where isolation is required without adding opto-isolators.



Original Press Release:


Allegro Microsystems, Inc. Introduces a Fully Integrated ±100 A Open Loop Current Sensor


Simplify Manufacturing with a Precise and Economical Solution for Current Sensing

Worcester, MA, September 24, 2002 - Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. announces a fully integrated ±100 A open loop current sensor. This is a revolutionary step involving the continued use of linear Hall-effect sensor devices in current sensing applications. The use of a programmable linear Hall-effect device provides for improved accuracy and linearity as well as very low thermal drift. The electro-mechanical package is an innovative step towards a fully integrated current sensing solution. Customers no longer need to design and manufacture their own magnetic circuit. The small package, 10 mm x 13 mm X
7 mm, consists of two primary power conductive leads, which allow current to pass through a ferrite core over the sensing element of a Hall IC. It requires minimal effort to implement on a PC board in a high volume production environment by means of soldering or welding. This particular device, the ACS750ECA-100 has a bandwidth of 13 KHz and future family members will be
capable of higher bandwidth and alternative maximum current limits. The device provides customers with a small, precise and economical solution for current sensing.

In addition to Allegro's ACS750ECA-100 being a monolithic Halt IC that provides extremely high reliability, the package also offers extremely low power loss, as the internal resistance is less than 1 mOhm. The power leads are electrically isolated from the sensing circuitry. This allows use of the device in applications where isolation is a requirement without the added expense of opto-isolators or other costly isolating techniques.

This new current sensor is targeted to meet the needs of the automotive, industrial and commercial markets with end applications to include: plasma cutting systems, welding equipment, UPS systems (power conversion/management), motor control applications (sunroof, window lift, generators), battery monitor and engine management systems, electronic power steering and heating systems. This new sensor is supplied in a "CA" package, will have a 20-week ARO lead-time to market and is priced at $4.50 in quantities of 10,000.

Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. is a leading supplier of advanced mixed-signal power semiconductors and Hall-effect sensors targeted toward the computer/office, automotive, industrial, telecommunication and consumer markets. With over 2,400 employees, Allegro is headquartered in Worcester, MA and operates multiple wafer-fabrication plants worldwide. Further information on Allegro can be found at www.allegromicro.com.

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