Description
How many amps will your circuit really draw, and how fast will the edges be? If the answer is several amps with sharp transitions, the Tektronix TICS0050 current shunt is worth a look. It is a 50 mΩ wideband shunt that works with Tektronix TICP IsoVu isolated current probes. The probe reads the voltage across the shunt, and you divide by 50 mΩ to get current. Each listing is for a single shunt.
Ten amps of dynamic range
The TICS0050 lists a ±10 A dynamic range. At that level, the shunt develops 0.5 V, which keeps the signal easy to read. Continuous current, however, stops at 4.5 A DC. Pulses can reach 20 A, although duration and waveform derating applies. So the part suits short, sharp current peaks on top of a moderate DC level.
The four TICS values side by side
| Model | Resistance | Max DC | Max pulse | Dynamic range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TICS5000 | 5 Ω | 200 mA | 200 mA | ±0.1 A |
| TICS0500 | 500 mΩ | 1.4 A | 2 A | ±1 A |
| TICS0050 | 50 mΩ | 4.5 A | 20 A | ±10 A |
| TICS0005 | 5 mΩ | 12 A | 200 A | ±100 A |
All four share 250 MHz typical bandwidth, 1.6 ns typical rise time, DC gain accuracy below 2% and a -40 °C to +85 °C operating range. Also, each has a built-in fuse with a 400 V interruptible voltage limit, under the maker’s conditions.
Multi-amp jobs for the Tektronix TICS0050 current shunt
Good matches include DC-DC converter stages, small motor drives and battery management boards. For instance, a design team may capture switch-node current during a load step. Then a test engineer may confirm the same waveform across a temperature sweep. In each case, the shunt resistance stays low enough to limit loss, yet high enough for a clean signal.
Plan the pulse first
Before you connect, compare your pulse width with the manufacturer’s pulse-current curve. Next, check power dissipation in the shunt. Then follow the manufacturer’s manual and ratings for every part of the path.
Getting a TICS0050 through Lost in HCM
Lost in HCM can sell or rent the Tektronix TICS0050 current shunt and arrange service on request. To ask for pricing, contact Lost in HCM for a quote and give the TICP model, current level and pulse shape. You may also browse the probe accessories on SMK Vietnam or ask SMK Vietnam a question. For maker information, go to tek.com.
Questions on the 50 mΩ TICS shunt
Why is the pulse rating higher than the DC rating?
The 20 A figure covers short pulses only, with derating for duration and waveform. So a 20 A peak never extends the 4.5 A continuous limit.
Is 250 MHz the bandwidth of my whole setup?
Not necessarily. The probe, shunt and interconnect together decide the usable bandwidth.
What does the built-in fuse mean for me?
The fuse has a 400 V maximum interruptible voltage. Follow the full manufacturer installation and protection requirements.
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