July 30, 2018 — Microchip Technology released a dual-mode power monitoring IC that measures both AC and DC modes with accuracy of 0.1 percent error across a 4000:1 range.
The MCP39F511A power monitoring IC is a device that addresses the growing need for power measurements in high-performance designs. Two 24-bit delta-sigma Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADCs) with 94.5 dB of signal-to-noise ratio plus distortion (SINAD) performance and a 16-bit calculation engine are included. Suitable for a range of consumer, Internet of Things (IoT) and industrial applications, the MCP39F511A automatically senses power supply types and switches between AC and DC modes, optimizing measurement results. The device also helps developers troubleshoot issues with an on-chip EEPROM that logs critical events, as well as an integrated low-drift voltage reference and internal oscillator.
The device provides standard power calculations such as active, reactive and apparent power, active and reactive energy, root-mean-square (RMS) current and voltage, line frequency and power factor, which enable designers to add power monitoring functions to end applications. The MCP39F511A includes features such as auto-save and auto-load of power quantities to and from the EEPROM at power loss or start, ensuring that measurement results are never lost if power is disrupted unexpectedly.
The device is supported by the MCP39F511A Power Monitor Demonstration Board (ADM00667), a fully functional single-phase power and energy monitoring system. The system calculates and displays active power, reactive power, RMS current, RMS voltage, active energy (both import and export) and four-quadrant reactive energy. It connects through USB to the “Power Monitor Utility Software” that offers automated control to allow users to evaluate all system configuration settings.
