Texas Instruments INA138 High-Side Current Shunt Monitor – Compact, Linear Current Output
The INA138 from Texas Instruments is a high-side current shunt monitor designed for precision current measurement in DC power systems. It outputs a voltage proportional to the load current sensed across an external shunt resistor, making it ideal for accurate current monitoring in battery-powered devices, industrial systems, and automotive electronics.
This device supports a wide input common-mode voltage range of 2.7V to 36V, ensuring compatibility with both low-voltage and high-voltage systems. The linear output voltage enables easy interfacing with analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) or microcontrollers for further processing and control.
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Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Common-Mode Input Voltage Range | 2.7 to 36 | V |
| Output Voltage | Proportional to Load Current | – |
| Input Offset Voltage (Typ) | ±1 | mV |
| Gain | 1 V/mA (set by external resistor) | – |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 to +125 | °C |
| Quiescent Current (Max) | 180 | µA |
| Package | SOT-23-5 | – |
Key Features and Advantages
- High-Side Current Sensing: Allows current measurement without disrupting the ground path, ideal for battery monitoring and system diagnostics.
- Linear Output: The voltage output is directly proportional to the sensed current, streamlining analog signal processing and interfacing.
- Low Quiescent Current: Consumes only 180 µA, ensuring minimal impact on power-sensitive systems.
- External Gain Adjustment: Designers can configure the output sensitivity using a single external resistor.
- Compact SOT-23-5 Package: Minimizes PCB footprint in space-constrained applications such as IoT and wearable devices.
Typical Applications
- Battery Management Systems
- Power Supply Current Monitoring
- DC Motor Control
- Embedded Systems Current Sensing
- Telecommunications Equipment
Texas Instruments Quality and Performance Assurance
As a product from Texas Instruments, the INA138 benefits from a legacy of quality, consistency, and reliability. Each unit undergoes stringent electrical testing to meet automotive and industrial-grade standards, ensuring safe deployment across wide temperature and voltage ranges. Its compact form factor and design flexibility allow seamless integration into modern electronics platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What type of current measurement does the INA138 support?
The INA138 supports **high-side current measurement**, allowing accurate sensing of load current while preserving the integrity of the system ground.
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How do I set the output gain of the INA138?
The gain is determined by an external resistor connected between the output and ground. This allows users to tailor output voltage sensitivity to their specific system requirements.
Is the INA138 suitable for use in battery-powered applications?
Yes. With a quiescent current of only 180 µA and support for input voltages as low as 2.7V, it’s an excellent choice for **battery management systems**.
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Can I use INA138 for bi-directional current measurement?
No. The INA138 is designed for unidirectional high-side current monitoring. For bi-directional applications, Texas Instruments recommends the INA139 or other dedicated devices.
Does the INA138 require a specific orientation of the shunt resistor?
Yes. For accurate measurement, the shunt resistor must be placed on the high side of the load, between the power source and the load circuit.
