Power monitors cut need for external amps

Maxim Integrated Products introduces two new flash configurable sequencers/monitors that simplify power management and help conserve power consumption. The MAX16065 and MAX16066 eliminate the need for external current-sense amplifiers to monitor current, saving both space and cost. Each device 12 supply voltages simultaneously, and the MAX16066 manages up to eight supply voltages.

These sequencers/monitors integrate highly ±2.5 percent accurate current monitoring and group sequencing to monitor and conserve power. They also feature an ADC and non-volatile fault registers to store and read back fault data. An easy-to-use graphical configuration tool eliminates the need for tedious, time-consuming programming of complex devices like CPLDs and microprocessors.

The MAX16065/MAX16066 provide ±1 percent accurate voltage monitoring and sequencing for complex systems where high reliability is critical. Networking, telecom, servers, and data storage are typical applications.

They reduce costs and space by eliminating external current-sense amplifiers. Many systems require the current and voltage to be monitored continuously. Traditional sequencers/monitors used external current-sense amplifiers for the task. Those design configurations could become very complex and costly as the number of external amplifiers increased. With an integrated, dedicated current monitor, the MAX16065/MAX16066 eliminate the need for any external current-sense amplifiers. And when two inputs are configured as a differential pair, the devices can monitor both the current in the power supply rail and the voltage of the power supply rail simultaneously.