Low-Cost, Micropower, High-Side Current-Sense Amplifier + Comparator + Reference ICs

The MAX4373/MAX4374/MAX4375 low-cost, micropower, high-side current-sense supervisors contain a high-side current-sense amplifier, bandgap reference, and comparator with latching output. They feature a voltage output that eliminates the need for gain-setting resistors, making them ideal for today's notebook computers, cell phones, and other systems where battery/DC current monitoring is critical. High-side current monitoring is especially useful in battery-powered systems since it does not interfere with the ground path of the battery charger. The 0 to +28V input common-mode range is independent of the supply voltage, which ensures that the current-sense feedback remains viable even when connected to a battery pack in deep discharge.

The comparator output of the MAX4373/MAX4374/ MAX4375 is latched to provide a turn-off flag that doesn't oscillate. In addition, the MAX4374/MAX4375 contain a second comparator for use in window-detection functions. The MAX4373/MAX4374/MAX4375 are available in three different gain versions (T = +20V/V, F = +50V/V, H = +100V/V) and use an external sense resistor to set the sensitivity of the input voltage to the load current. These features offer a high level of integration, resulting in a simple and compact current-sense solution.

The MAX4373/MAX4374/MAX4375 operate from a single +2.7V to +28V supply and consume 50µA. They are specified for the extended operating temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) and are available in 8-pin and 10-pin µMAX® packages.

Applications

* Cell Phones * General-System/Board-Level Current Monitoring * Notebook Computers * Portable Battery-Powered Systems * Power-Management Systems * Precision Current Sources * Smart Battery Packs/Chargers

* Integrated Current-Sensing Solution Simplifies High-Side Current Monitoring

* Current-Sense Amplifier plus Internal Comparator and Bandgap Reference with Improved Accuracy

* 1mV (max) Input Offset Voltage

* 2% (max) Full-Scale Accuracy

* Internal Bandgap Reference (±1.6% Accuracy)

* High Accuracy +2V to +28V Common-Mode Range, Functional Down to 0V, Independent of Supply Voltage Ensures Current Monitoring Even In Deep Discharge of Battery Pack

* Low Power Consumption Extends Battery Life

* 50µA Supply Current

* Single +2.7V to +28V Operating Supply

* Latching Comparator Output Eliminates Oscillation

* Three Gain Versions (+20V/V, +50V/V, +100V/V) Support Different Size Battery Packs