Microchip Technology Inc. announces new two- and three-channel power monitoring devices that measure from 0V to 32V on a single chip, offering designers easy-to-adopt solutions that improve power measurement accuracy. This two-channel device is also the first on the market with 16-bit resolution, providing maximum flexibility across a wide measurement range.The PAC1932/33 devices incorporate precisely what's needed for power measurement into a single integrated circuit, integrating multiple channels into a single package for applications such as POS systems, ATMs, and building automation. This reduces costs for system designers and shortens the bill of materials, as measurements on power rails from less than 1V to 20V typically require separate components to efficiently measure each rail. The ability of these devices to measure voltage rails below 1V and up to 32V also eliminates the need for developers to reconfigure measurement resolution for loads with varying current draws.
As the only dual-channel device capable of 16-bit power measurement, the PAC1932 can measure power without host intervention for up to 17 minutes, eliminating the need for developers to adjust voltage or current ranges for power and energy measurements. The devices incorporate two 16-bit A/D converters that can simultaneously measure voltage and current, allowing developers to obtain true power values. This enables them to design more efficient systems.
As applications continue to seek ways to reduce their power consumption, accurate DC measurement has become a key element for energy savings. Just as the quad-channel PAC1934 improves power measurement for Windows 10 devices, new dual- and triple-channel power supervisor chips enhance power measurement in low-voltage, low-power applications for markets such as embedded computing and networking.
The PAC1932/33 works with Linux® and Windows 10 software drivers. The evaluation board with ADM00805 compatible registers can be used to start development with a graphical user interface that displays Vsense, Vbus, power, and accumulated power.
The PAC1932 two-channel and PAC1933 three-channel power supervisor chips are now available for sampling and volume production.
