Linear Technology Current Sense Amplifier Offers Precision in a SOT-23

(Product News, 15 May 2007)

Linear Technology has released the LT6106, a low cost, high side current sense amplifier that can resolve small differential signals from common mode voltages up to 36V. With only 250µV(max.) of input offset voltage and a full-scale differential input of 500mV, the LT6106 offers a dynamic range of 2000:1. The input bias current is guaranteed to be no more than 40nA, essentially eliminating bias current as a source of error. For handling fault conditions, the LT6106 can withstand common mode voltages up to 44V and can respond to signal changes within 3.5usec. The operating temperature range of -40ˇăC to 125ˇăC makes the LT6106 suitable for industrial and automotive applications such as power management, motion control and battery charging.

The LT6106 is versatile and simple to use. Two external resistors set the amplifier gain, providing control of gain accuracy and drift, power consumption, response time and input/output impedance. The LT6106's SOT-23 package is pin compatible with Linear Technology's LTC6101 and LTC6101HV, providing designers with interchangeable current sense amplifiers for inputs up to 36V, 60V or 100V.

"The performance and low cost of the LT6106 enables wider adoption of current sense in industrial and automotive applications," says Mike Kultgen, Design Manager for Linear Technology.

The LT6106 is in full production, with prices starting at $0.82 each in 1,000-piece quantities.

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