Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MCS1806GS-5-10-Z

Overview

MCS1806GS-5-10-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a galvanically isolated linear Hall-effect current sensor optimized for ±10A bidirectional DC/AC sensing with 5V single-supply operation, 200mV/A sensitivity, ±2.5% total output error over -40°C to +125°C, and 3kVRMS isolation. It replaces optocouplers in motor control feedback loops where high-accuracy, low-drift current monitoring is required under noisy EMI conditions.

For engineers reviewing the MCS1806GS-5-10-Z datasheet, MCS1806GS-5-10-Z pinout, MCS1806GS-5-10-Z application, or MCS1806GS-5-10-Z equivalent, key selection criteria include its 500VRMS working voltage rating, 0.9mΩ internal conductor resistance, adjustable bandwidth up to 100kHz via external FILT capacitor, and SOIC-8 package compatibility with space-constrained power stage layouts.

Technical Context

The MCS1806GS-5-10-Z implements differential Hall sensing with two integrated transducers (PMCF1 = 0.6mT/A, PMCF2 = 0.3mT/A) to reject stray magnetic fields, combined with spinning current offset cancellation yielding ±5mV max offset over -40°C to +25°C. Its ratiometric analog output scales with VCC (KSENS = 98–102%, KVO = 99–101%), ensuring stability across supply variations.

Galvanic isolation is achieved via reinforced insulation between primary current path (IP+/IP−) and signal side (VCC/VOUT/FILT/GND), certified to IEC62368-1 with 3000VRMS withstand voltage and 4.2mm creepage/clearance. The device supports programmable bandwidth (100kHz max) using an external capacitor on FILT, enabling noise-bandwidth tradeoffs without altering gain or accuracy.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOIC-8 (5mm × 4mm, 1.27mm pitch), surface-mount, RoHS-compliant, MSL Level 1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar isolated current sensing applications.

Compared with ACS724LLCTR-10AU-T and TMC1100-10A, the MCS1806GS-5-10-Z provides superior isolation integrity, analog ratiometry for supply-independent scaling, and user-configurable bandwidth-making it optimal for safety-certified motor drives and high-reliability SMPS designs.

Availability

MCS1806GS-5-10-Z is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motor controls, switch-mode power supplies, and automotive onboard chargers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MCS1806GS-5-10-Z includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Monolithic Power Systems (MPS) is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in high-performance power management ICs, including DC/DC converters, LED drivers, and precision analog sensors.

The MCS1806 product line delivers isolated current sensing solutions targeting high-efficiency, compact, and safety-compliant power conversion systems in industrial, automotive, and renewable energy applications.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous primary current the MCS1806GS-5-10-Z can handle without saturation?

The device maintains linearity up to ±10A, its specified optimized range. Beyond that, output remains proportional but nonlinearity exceeds ±2.5%; saturation occurs at VOUT(H) = VCC − 0.5V and VOUT(L) = 0.5V under 4.7kΩ load, corresponding to ~±15A depending on VCC and temperature.

How does the FILT pin affect noise performance and bandwidth?

Connecting a capacitor (CF) between FILT and GND forms a first-order RC filter with internal RFI = 1.5kΩ and CFI = 1nF. For example, a 1nF CF yields ~106kHz bandwidth; a 10nF CF reduces it to ~10kHz, lowering input-referred noise from 50mA(RMS) to ~16mA(RMS) at 60kHz.

Can the MCS1806GS-5-10-Z be used with a 3.3V supply?

No - the "-5-" suffix denotes 5V supply optimization. Using 3.3V violates the minimum 4.5V operating condition and will trigger UVLO. For 3.3V systems, select MCS1806GS-3-10-Z (132mV/A, ±10A range).

What PCB layout practices are critical for achieving ±2.5% accuracy?

Minimize thermal gradients by placing ≥25mm² copper pour under IP+ and IP− pads; isolate signal traces (VOUT, FILT) from high-dI/dt paths; use separate ground planes for power and signal sides tied at single point near GND pin; avoid routing traces under the IC body.

Does the MCS1806GS-5-10-Z require calibration after soldering?

No factory calibration is needed post-assembly. Its spinning current technique and laser-trimmed sensitivity ensure ±2.5% total error without end-of-line trimming. However, system-level offset correction may improve zero-current accuracy if sub-10mA resolution is required.

What is the self-heating impact at 10A DC continuous current?

On the MPS evaluation board at 25°C ambient, 10A DC raises junction temperature by ~22°C after 10 minutes. With adequate PCB copper (≥2oz, 50mm² per side), self-heating stays below 15°C rise, keeping TJ well under the 125°C max operating limit.

Is the isolation barrier certified for reinforced insulation per IEC62368-1?

Yes - the device is agency-tested to 3000VRMS for 60 seconds per IEC62368-1 and 100% production tested to the same standard. External clearance and creepage are both 4.2mm, satisfying reinforced insulation requirements for mains-connected equipment.