Allegro MicroSystems launches current sensor for EV powertrain systems

Allegro MicroSystems has released samples of the ACS37601, an ASIL C safety rated, high-precision, field current sensor for traction and auxiliary inverter systems as well as battery management systems (BMS) in electric vehicles (EVs).

Designers of inverter and battery management systems are required to achieve higher safety targets based on new Automotive Safety Integrity Level (ASIL) requirements. So, to meet new safety requirements, while increasing system efficiency and extending battery life, Allegro has developed the ACS37601 programmable linear Hall-effect current sensor IC with overcurrent, overtemperature, and self-test capabilities.

The sensor has been designed to achieve high accuracy and resolution without compromising bandwidth, and it is Allegro’s highest-accuracy field current sensor for applications requiring measurement capability greater than 200 Amperes.

To be used along with a C-core, the ACS37601 is the first ASIL C-rated field current sensor that achieves 0.8% sensitivity error and less than 5 mV offset error over the automotive temperature range, and - with 30% less noise than legacy devices - this IC is intended for battery management applications.

The high operating bandwidth from DC to 240 kHz and fast 2 μs response time enable new performance in DC battery charging and high-frequency automotive inverter applications. To support adoption of the most advanced microprocessors without requiring additional components, the ACS37601 works with 5 V or 3.3 V power supplies.

To help designers deliver the most-advanced ASIL-compliant battery management and inverter systems, samples of the ACS37601 are currently offered in an extremely thin (1 mm-thick), 4-pin single in-line package (SIP), referred to as the KT package.

The KT package is available in straight leads (suffix TN) as well as a lead-formed option (suffix TH), enabling surface-mount assembly and a high tolerance to mechanical vibrations. The package is lead (Pb) free, with 100% matt tin leadframe plating.

For datasheets and samples, contact an Allegro sales office.