Maxim Introduces Automotive-Grade Current-Sense Amplifiers

Maxim Integrated Products introduced the MAX16913/MAX16913A, high-voltage current-sense switches that prevent system damage due to fault conditions. These devices monitor load current and provide an analog output voltage proportional to the sensed load current. They include accurate internal current-limiting circuitry to protect the input supply against both overload and short-circuit conditions. Two open-drain fault-indicator outputs notify the microprocessor when a short-circuit, open-load, or short-to-battery condition exists. The wide input supply voltage range (5 to 42V) makes the MAX16913 is well suited for providing phantom power to remote RF LNAs in automotive applications.

A fault-blanking feature enables the circuit to ignore momentary faults – such as those caused by the initial charging of a capacitive load when hot swapping – thus preventing false alarms to the system. These current-sense switches also feature built-in thermal-overload protection, short-to-battery detection during startup, and an enable control to put the devices into a low-power shutdown mode.

The MAX16913/MAX16913A are fully specified over the -40 to +105°C temperature range. They are AEC-Q100 qualified and are available in a 16-pin QSOP package. Pricing starts at $1.50 (1000-up, FOB USA).