Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P

Overview

MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P from Monolithic Power Systems is a bidirectional linear Hall-effect current sensor IC with integrated over-current detection (OCD), designed for high-accuracy AC/DC current sensing in space-constrained systems. It features ±5A rated current range, 264 mV/A sensitivity, 0.6 mΩ internal conductor resistance, ±2.5% total output error, and operates from a 3.3V supply. It is used in motor control and switch-mode power supply fault monitoring where compact size and fast OCD response are critical.

For engineers reviewing the MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P datasheet, MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P pinout, MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P application, or MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P equivalent, key selection considerations include its TQFN-12 package footprint, ratiometric VOUT option, 1 µs OCD response time, differential Hall array immunity to stray fields, and factory-trimmed offset stability across -40°C to +125°C.

Technical Context

The MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P employs a differential Hall array architecture that cancels external magnetic field gradients, enabling robust operation in electrically noisy environments. Its integrated primary conductor (0.6 mΩ) carries up to ±5A while generating a proportional magnetic field sensed at two spatially separated Hall transducers.

Signal conditioning includes spinning current offset cancellation, dynamic offset compensation, and a bandwidth-tuned amplifier delivering 120 kHz small-signal bandwidth. The /OCD pin provides open-drain, active-low over-current indication with user-configurable threshold (±96% of IPMAX) via external pull-up resistor (10 kΩ–500 kΩ).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TQFN-12 (3 mm × 3 mm, 0.5 mm height), exposed thermal pad, MSL Level 1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar linear Hall-effect current sensing applications.

Compared with ACS712ELCTR-05B-T and TMC1638-LA, the MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P delivers superior board-area efficiency (3×3 mm), lowest conduction loss (0.6 mΩ), and fastest standalone OCD response (1 µs), making it optimal for ultra-compact, analog-focused protection designs.

Availability

MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motor control, switch-mode power supplies, and over-current fault protection requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P 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 MCS1823 product line targets compact, high-reliability current sensing in automotive, industrial, and computing power systems-designed to replace bulky shunt-based solutions with integrated, isolated-capable Hall-effect sensing.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous current the MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P can measure without saturation?

The device maintains linear output up to ±5A (IPMAX) with ±2.5% total error. Beyond this range, VOUT remains proportional but nonlinearity increases; saturation occurs at VOUT = VCC – 0.3V (≈3.0V) for 3.3V supply. The internal conductor handles >10A continuously without thermal failure due to its 0.6 mΩ resistance and thermal pad design.

How is the OCD threshold set to ±96% of IPMAX for this specific part number?

The "96" suffix in MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96 indicates factory-programmed OCD threshold at ±96% of ±5A (i.e., ±4.8A). This is achieved by laser-trimming internal reference circuitry-no external resistor is needed. The /OCD pin asserts low within 1 µs when primary current exceeds this threshold.

Does the MCS1823GQTE-305BRN96-P provide galvanic isolation between primary current path and signal outputs?

No. It provides basic functional isolation per IEC62368-1 with VIOWM = 100 VPK/DC, but not reinforced or safety-rated isolation. The primary conductor (IP+/IP-) shares the same silicon die as the Hall sensors and analog circuitry-creepage/clearance is maintained on-package only. External isolation is required for high-voltage system separation.

Can the VOUT pin drive a standard 12-bit SAR ADC directly without signal conditioning?

Yes. With ratiometric output centered at 1.65V (VCC/2) and ±1.32V swing (2.64Vpp), VOUT delivers 0.3–3.0V into ≥4.7 kΩ load-fully compatible with 3.3V ADC references. Input-referred noise is 35 mA(rms) over 120 kHz, supporting ~10-bit ENOB without filtering. For higher resolution, a simple RC anti-alias filter is recommended.

What is the thermal performance of the TQFN-12 package under 5A continuous current?

At 5A, conduction loss is 15 mW (I²R = 25 × 0.0006). With θJA ≈ 120°C/W (typical for 2-layer PCB with thermal pad), junction-to-ambient rise is <2°C-well within -40°C to +125°C operating range. The exposed pad must be soldered to ≥1 cm² copper pour for optimal thermal dissipation.

Is the "B" in the part number suffix "BRN96" indicative of bidirectional operation?

Yes. Per MPS part numbering, "B" in position 7 denotes bidirectional current polarity (±5A range). "R" indicates ratiometric VOUT mode, "N" specifies non-latched /OCD output, and "96" sets OCD threshold to 96% of IPMAX. All confirmed in the official ordering information table.