Asahi Kasei Microdevices Corporation (AKM) has started mass production of the CZ39 series of coreless current sensors, which it says are well-suited to electric vehicles (EV) due to their 100 ns response time, low heat generation and continuous, high-accuracy current detection, even in noisy environments.

The sensors are compatible with silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN) power devices, which are favoured by OEMs for their reduced form factor and high efficiency.

As such, the CZ39 series allows for the implementation of substantially smaller, lighter and accurate on-board charging systems for EVs, says AKM, reducing weight and extending cruising range.

The sensors feature a high-sensitivity compound Hall element that enables the response time of 100 ns, making it possible for current measurements to keep up with the high switching speed of SiC and GaN-based power solutions. They can quickly signal the system to interrupt current flow during an overcurrent situation, making them ideal for robust electronic fuse or e-fuse implementation.

AKM has developed a unique package that achieves a primary conductor resistance of only 0.3 mΩ. Even under continuous 40 Arms (amps route mean square) current flow at an ambient temperature of 125 C, heat generation is minimal, reducing the need for bulky thermal-management measures.

Additionally, the structure of the package provides sufficient creepage and clearance distances for use in applications above 650 V.