Shunt-based ILF current sensor for lower-current applications

Measurement specialist Isabellenhütte has developed a new current sensor for lower-current applications. The ILF current sensor covers a measurement range of up to 60A and displays the flowing current via the corresponding voltage value on the analogue output. Due to its compact IC housing, the ILF current sensor is ideal for SMD mounting. The new ILF is primarily suitable for use in frequency converters for industrial applications and solar inverters. The ILF’s current measurement is based on the company’s proven shunt technology. Conventional current sensors in the same measurement range are largely based on the magnetic principle. Using this method, a current is detected by the magnetic field of a live conductor. Compared to products that use the magnetic principle, shunt-based current measurement results in greater accuracy, says the company. “We are comparable to magnetic sensors in terms of price. However, with shunt technology, we measure current according to Ohm’s law. That means we don’t have to rely on a magnetic field, which is prone to interference. Isabellenhütte sensors are therefore much more precise,” said Jens Hartmann, sales director ISAscale, Isabellenhütte. "ILF’s relative error amounts to deviation from the measurement value of less than one per cent over the entire measurement range. The ILF also ensures high continuous output, outstanding long-term stability and high continuous load and pulse capacity." The ILF is designed for two different current ranges: ±60A and ±30A. It is compatible with supply voltages of 3.3V or 5V. The pins of the ILF sensor consist of two load current contacts as well as four signal and supply communication contacts. Isabellenhütte designed the ILF to be a ready-to-use solution consisting of shunt and semiconductor technology in one-chip housing. The ILF is available in a compact IC housing with standard SOP20 dimensions. The current sensor is compatible with any A/D converters, and the circuit board mounting can be carried out automatically, says the company.