Monitor simplifies current measurement at high voltages

With its fixed gain, the ZXCT1081 requires only a single low value sense resistor to accurately measure high side currents. Greatly simplifying circuit design, the current monitor helps reduce PCB area, component count and cost.

The SOT23-5 packaged monitor is particularly well suited to over-current protection duties in power supply and automotive applications - with its 60V transient capability allowing it to tolerate load-dump conditions without the need for additional circuitry. A separate supply pin enables the ZXCT1081 to function under short circuit conditions, providing an end stop voltage at the output.

The monitor’s 5V supply voltage operation ensures the monitor is readily interfaced with microcontrollers and A-D converters and prevents the output from exceeding supply rail voltage. The ZXCT1081 from Zetex Semiconductors is priced at $0.54 in 1k quantities.