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INA186: INA186 working normally overloaded

Part Number: INA186

Hi,

I need to measure a current when it is less than 10mA. Normally the current is 1 Amp but it is no necessary to measure it when values are more than 10mA.

For example:

Rsense = 0.05ohm
INA186A4: gain 200V/V
VS = 5V

At 1A: Vout = 0.05*1*200 = 10V (overload)
At 10mA: Vout = 0.05*0.01*200 = 100mV

Is it possible that the INA186 works overloaded most of the time?

Thank you

  • Hello Pablo,

    It will work as it is below absolote max ratings.  I see two issues.

    1) When the value comes from overloaded to normal operation range of INA186 there could be some time required to overcome  the saturation state.  This may not be an issue.

    2) Operating in saturation most of the time may degrade the INA186 much faster than normal.  I need to verify this as it depends on the input devices and I will look into this.

  • Hi Javier,

    Thank you for your comments.

    1) When the value comes from overloaded to normal operation range of INA186 there could be some time required to overcome  the saturation state.  This may not be an issue.

    The time to overcome the overload is not an issue. The time is given in the data sheet about 80uSeg.

    2) Operating in saturation most of the time may degrade the INA186 much faster than normal.  I need to verify this as it depends on the input devices and I will look into this.

    If the saturation degrade the chip I would need to take a different approach.

    Best regards,
    Pablo

  • Pablo,

    Looking over your question I think I missed the 10V being the output Voltage and not the input.  With 50mV input I do not think it will degrade the input stage.  I still have someone verifying it either way.  

  • Pablo,

    I confirmed there will be no issue overdriving the input for your normal opeartion.