Monolithic Power Systems Inc. MCS1823GQTE-540BRN-Z

Overview

MCS1823GQTE-540BRN-Z from Monolithic Power Systems is a bidirectional linear Hall-effect current sensor IC with integrated over-current detection (OCD), operating from a 5V supply, rated for ±40A primary current, delivering 50mV/A sensitivity and ±2.5% total output error across –40°C to +125°C, used in motor control and switch-mode power supply current monitoring.

For engineers reviewing the MCS1823GQTE-540BRN-Z datasheet, MCS1823GQTE-540BRN-Z pinout, MCS1823GQTE-540BRN-Z application, or MCS1823GQTE-540BRN-Z equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed bidirectional sensing capability, OCD threshold configurability, and real-world application constraints including 120kHz bandwidth and 0.6mΩ conductor resistance.

Technical Context

The device uses a differential Hall array to reject external magnetic field gradients and employs spinning current offset cancellation for stable zero-current output. Its internal 0.6mΩ copper conductor enables high-current sensing without external shunts while maintaining galvanic isolation up to 100 VPK/DC per IEC62368-1.

It integrates a fast open-drain /OCD output with 1µs response time and user-configurable threshold (50–240% of IPMAX) via external pull-up resistor. The analog VOUT is ratiometric to VCC, with typical zero-current output at 2.5V (5V supply) and saturation limits of VCC – 0.5V (high) and 0.5V (low).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TQFN-12 (3mm × 3mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad; ultra-compact footprint reduces board area by >50% vs. SOIC-8 current sensors.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ACS724LLCTR-40AB-T and TLE4971-2500S4-10-1-50, the MCS1823GQTE-540BRN-Z uniquely combines 120kHz bandwidth, factory-trimmed ±2.5% accuracy, and fully configurable OCD in a 3mm×3mm package-enabling space-constrained, high-reliability designs without trade-offs in speed, precision, or protection granularity.

Availability

MCS1823GQTE-540BRN-Z 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 support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MCS1823GQTE-540BRN-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, with expertise in DC/DC converters, LED drivers, and precision analog sensing solutions.

The MCS1823 product line delivers ultra-small, isolated current sensing for space- and efficiency-critical power systems, targeting motor drives, computing power delivery, and automotive electrification subsystems.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous primary current the MCS1823GQTE-540BRN-Z can handle without degradation?

The device is rated for ±40A continuous primary current (IPMAX) with guaranteed linearity and ±2.5% total output error. Its 0.6mΩ internal conductor dissipates 960mW at 40A, resulting in <10°C junction rise above ambient under typical PCB copper pour conditions. Derating is not required below 125°C junction temperature.

Does the /OCD pin require an external pull-up resistor, and what value range is supported?

Yes - /OCD is an open-drain output requiring an external pull-up resistor to VCC. The datasheet specifies 10kΩ to 500kΩ; values in this range allow setting OCD thresholds from 50% to 240% of IPMAX (±20A to ±96A). A 100kΩ resistor configures threshold at 100% (±40A), yielding ~1.2µs propagation delay.

Is the VOUT output ratiometric or absolute, and how does that affect system accuracy?

This variant (GQTE-540BRN-Z) uses ratiometric VOUT - output scales linearly with VCC. At zero current, VOUT = VCC/2 (2.5V @ 5V). This eliminates VCC variation errors in ADC measurements when using the same supply for both sensor and ADC reference, improving system-level accuracy without additional regulation.

Can the MCS1823GQTE-540BRN-Z be used in AC current measurement applications?

Yes - it measures both AC and DC primary currents with identical accuracy and bandwidth. Its differential Hall architecture rejects common-mode magnetic interference, and 120kHz bandwidth supports RMS measurement of 50/60Hz mains current with >1000:1 dynamic range, as well as high-frequency ripple in SMPS outputs.

What is the isolation rating, and does it meet reinforced or basic insulation standards?

The device provides basic isolation per IEC62368-1 with VIOWM = 100 VPK or VDC. It is not rated for reinforced isolation or medical-grade creepage/clearance. For applications requiring >100V working voltage or safety-critical isolation, external barrier design or certified isolators must supplement the sensor's internal isolation.

How does the spinning current technique improve offset stability over temperature?

Spinning current dynamically rotates the Hall plate bias direction each conversion cycle, averaging out process-induced mismatches and thermally induced offset drift. This achieves ±10mV max offset variation from –40°C to +125°C - a 3× improvement over static Hall sensors - enabling single-point calibration across full temperature range.

Are the NC pins (7–10) safe to connect to ground or leave floating in PCB layout?

NC pins must remain unconnected - they are electrically isolated bond pads with no internal connection. Grounding them may induce parasitic capacitance, disrupt thermal dissipation from the exposed pad, or cause mechanical stress on the die attach. Follow MPS layout guidelines: keep NC pins clear of traces and copper pours.