High Power, Ultra-low Ohmic Current Sense Resistors

Bourns, Inc. today introduced a new range of high power, ultra-low ohmic current sense resistor products. Bourns designed its latest current measurement devices to help power electronics developers save energy while maximizing sensing performance in their designs. The Model CSS series features feature low Temperature Coefficient of Resistance (TCR) for operating accuracy over wide temperature ranges and excellent long term stability. Their very low resistance levels, low thermal electromotive force (EMF) and high power handling capabilities make them suited for a variety of industrial applications and power electronics including battery management systems, switch mode power supplies and motor drives.

“Current sense resistors are growing in popularity due to their high measurement accuracy and relatively low cost compared to other technologies,” said Brian Ahearne, product line manager at Bourns, Inc. “Bourns designed this new family of high power current sense resistors so designers have an accurate device for higher power applications where they must monitor a voltage drop across the sense resistor and convert to a current reading to assist in the efficient operation of the circuit.”

Bourns’ new Model CSS series is available in both 2 and 4-terminal options. The 2-terminal models are offered in three different foot print sizes, 5930, 3920 and 2512. The 4-terminal devices allow for very precise 4 Kelvin (K) resistance measurement. Their metal alloy current sensing element allows for low thermal EMF and low TCRs of 50 PPM/degree C in the 20 to 60 degrees C temperature range. Both series options supply resistance values as low as 0.5 milliohms, and customers can select from a range of low resistance options and power ratings of up to 9W.

Bourns will showcase the new series of current sense at the PCIM Europe 2016 Conference, May 10-12, Nuremberg, Germany, Bourns Booth #430, Hall 7. In addition to current sense resistors, Bourns will showcase its breadth of magnetics products, Multifuse® PPTC resettable fuses and thyristor surge protector products. This broad line-up provides the technologies developers need to meet today’s challenging power electronics requirements while offering a valuable “one-stop-shop” resource for OEMs.

The Bourns® Model CSS2H-5930 series is available now and is RoHS compliant. As a pricing reference, Model CSS2H-5930 is priced at $0.556 each in 3,000 piece quantities.