Allegro introduces a new custom SOIC16W package called

     Manchester, N.H. - Allegro MicroSystems, a global leader in power and sensing solutions for motion control and energy saving systems, announced the launch of a new custom SOIC16W package called "MC." This marks a leap forward for industry current sensing technology in power-intensive applications that require high isolation and low power consumption. The new package features an ultra-low series resistance of 265µΩ, more than 2.5 times lower than existing SOIC16W solutions, while offering the highest Allegros certified 5kV isolation rating.

     The first devices to be delivered in the new package are the Allegro current sensor ics ACS724 and ACS725, both of which offer leading performance in terms of speed and accuracy. These devices are the best choice for applications such as DC/DC converters, solar inverters, UPS systems, various electric vehicle (xEV) on-board chargers (OBCs), EV charging points and motor control.

     With the trend of smaller and smaller solution sizes, engineers are faced with more heat dissipation challenges. The copper lead frame in the new MC package is twice the thickness of the standard SOIC package and has an ultra-low series resistance of 265µΩ, enabling the higher current density of the Allegro IC package, which in turn improves power density in customer applications. At the same time, the smaller footprint of the SOIC16W also allows the use of smaller PCBS. The new package is capable of sensing continuous currents higher than 80A according to operating temperature requirements, reducing the need for external cooling components.

     Shaun Milano, Director of Allegro's Current Sensors Business Unit, explains: "Allegro's goal is to work towards a more sustainable future, and our innovations are leading the way in the industry. As electric and hybrid vehicle designers strive to reduce the weight and volume of their systems, they need solutions with higher power density, and the new MC package makes these goals easier to achieve than previous solutions."

     Allegro's proprietary internal package architecture is another industry first, and its 5kV isolation voltage rating enables customers to operate at continuous voltages up to 1600VDC and 1140VRMS, fully meeting the requirements of the most demanding EV applications and the new 1500VDC solar standard.