AC/DC split core current sensor for wide-bandwidth and high-current applications

Yokogawa Test and Measurement Corporation has released the CT1000S AC/DC split core current sensor. The device combines the accuracy of the company's conventional current sensors with the convenience of a clamp design and provides a high CMRR and exceptional frequency characteristics, even at measurement frequencies of 10kHz or higher. As such, the CT1000S is an ideal solution for test applications that require wide-bandwidth, high-current measurement.

The rising importance of energy efficiency across all industries drives demand for increasingly accurate power measurements in high-current applications such as electric vehicles, trains, and renewable energy systems. While the company's conventional CT series current sensors can be combined with tools such as its power analysers to perform multichannel measurements of large AC/DC currents and provide valuable insights required to meet efficiency targets, their installation and removal need the disconnection of wires. With its clamp design, the device is a convenient and highly precise wide-bandwidth, high-current measurement tool that eradicates the necessity for the disconnection of wires.

The device is able to measure AC and DC currents of up to 1000A and has a wide DC to 300kHz measurement frequency range. A high CMRR and excellent linearity of frequency characteristics provide precise power measurement in high-frequency applications that have dramatic changes in current levels and, therefore, need a wide dynamic range, while high resistance to electromagnetic noise ensures more accurate readings.

The device can be paired with the company's power analysers and waveform measurement instruments for tasks such as evaluating inverter carrier fundamental frequency components and reactor losses that necessitate wide bandwidths and the measurement of large currents.

Thanks to a clamp design that eliminates the necessity for disconnection of wires, the current sensor is easy to set and remove. The sensor unit and cable can be fixed in position to ensure stable measurements and enhance reproducibility. Cable lengths of 3m, 5m, and 10m are available.

Typical application areas include evaluating and testing inverters, motors, power conditioners, and other components; developing and evaluating EVs; and testing large inverter motors used in ships and trains.