STMicroelectronics TSC2012IST

Overview

TSC2012IST from STMicroelectronics is a precision bidirectional current sense amplifier with 100 V/V fixed gain, -20 to +70 V common-mode input range, ±200 µV max offset voltage, and 2.7–5.5 V supply operation. It enables high-accuracy shunt-based current monitoring in high-side or low-side configurations for industrial motor control and solenoid drive systems.

For engineers reviewing the TSC2012IST datasheet, TSC2012IST pinout, TSC2012IST application, or TSC2012IST equivalent, key selection criteria include its 100 V/V gain accuracy (±0.3%), 22.7–23.9 mV full-scale sensing range at ≤0.3% error, 5 µV/°C offset drift, SO8 package compatibility, and shutdown mode quiescent current of 20 µA.

Technical Context

The TSC2012IST uses a precision instrumentation amplifier topology optimized for wide common-mode rejection (≥85 dB DC CMRR) across -20 to +70 V, enabling accurate sensing in noisy industrial bus environments. Its ratiometric reference architecture (VREF1/VREF2) supports unidirectional or bidirectional output scaling relative to supply voltage.

It features active shutdown (SHDN pin, active-high), rail-to-rail output swing (VCC – 15 mV min high, 26 mV max low at 0.2 mA), and stable operation with capacitive loads up to 680 pF. Small-signal bandwidth is 330–490 kHz (typ.) depending on supply and common-mode voltage.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Available in SO8 (Small Outline Integrated Circuit, 150 mil width) package with standard 1.27 mm pitch. Pinout is fully compatible with JEDEC MS-012AC.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with INA240A1QDRQ1 and TSC2011IST, the TSC2012IST delivers highest gain (100×) and smallest full-scale sensing voltage (22.7 mV), making it optimal for space-constrained, low-shunt-resistance designs requiring maximum signal-to-noise ratio without amplification stages.

Availability

TSC2012IST is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial motor control, solenoid actuation, and 4–20 mA process instrumentation requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for TSC2012IST 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, specializing in analog, power, and microcontroller solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The TSC201x series belongs to ST's precision analog current sensing product line, designed specifically for high-reliability, wide common-mode industrial current monitoring with minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the minimum shunt voltage the TSC2012IST can accurately measure?

The TSC2012IST achieves ≤0.3% gain error down to 22.7 mV (min) full-scale input differential voltage at -40°C to +125°C. This corresponds to a minimum measurable shunt drop of 22.7 mV - sufficient for detecting ~227 mA through a 100 mΩ shunt or ~22.7 A through a 1 mΩ shunt, assuming 100× gain scaling.

How does the VREF1/VREF2 interface enable bidirectional current sensing?

VREF1 and VREF2 form a ratiometric reference pair that sets the output zero point. When both are biased to VCC/2, the output centers at VCC/2 for zero current; positive current shifts output above VCC/2, negative current shifts it below. This eliminates need for dual supplies while preserving polarity information.

Can the TSC2012IST be used with a 2.7 V supply and still meet datasheet specifications?

Yes - all key specs including gain error (≤0.3%), offset voltage (±200 µV), CMR (≥85 dB), and bandwidth (330 kHz typ.) are guaranteed from 2.7 V to 5.5 V. Supply voltage rejection (SVR) remains ≥75 dB across this range, ensuring stable operation in low-voltage embedded systems.

What is the recommended PCB layout practice for minimizing offset drift?

Route IN+ and IN− traces symmetrically with matched length and impedance, place 100 nF ceramic decoupling capacitor within 3 mm of VCC and GND pins, tie GND pin directly to shunt ground plane, and avoid routing noisy digital signals beneath the device. Thermal symmetry around the SO8 body also reduces thermally induced offset gradients.