New Industry Products

Texas Instruments Introduces Amplifier for High Common-Mode Voltage Applications

December 12, 2011 by Jeff Shepard

Texas Instruments Inc. (TI) introduced what it says is the industry’s most accurate difference amplifier for high common-mode voltage applications up to +275V. With what is described as a best-in-class common-mode rejection ratio (CMRR) of 100 dB, the INA149 increases overall measurement accuracy by 2x compared to the competition and is the first high-voltage difference amplifier with a specified minimum 90-dB CMRR performance in harsh, high-temperature environments up to 125°C. The amplifier also lowers initial gain error by 33 percent compared to the competition, while providing twice the slew rate to increase response time and overall system performance.

"The INA149 offers the highest precision measurement of low differential signals in industrial designs, which means higher performing, more accurate products for our customers," said Steve Anderson, senior vice president of TI’s High Performance Analog business. "The device also eliminates the need for multiple isolators or power supplies in high common-mode voltage applications to reduce component count, improve reliability and simplify system design."

The INA149 can be used in a variety of high common-mode-voltage applications, such as high-voltage current sensing; battery cell voltage monitoring in photovoltaic, telecom, electric vehicles, and alternative energy applications; power-supply current monitoring; and motor control.

TI offers a variety of tools and support to speed development with the INA149, including an evaluation module (INA149EVM), which can be ordered today for $49, and a TINA-TI SPICE model to simulate device performance.

The INA149 is available today in a 4.9-mm x 6-mm SOIC package for a suggested retail price of $2.70 in 1,000-unit quantities.

More news and information regarding the latest developments in Smart Grid electronics can be found at Darnell’s SmartGridElectronics.Net.