Isolated Hall Effect Current Sensors

VCS Series Isolated Hall Effect Current Sensors provide high-bandwidth current sensing with amplified output. The 50Ω voltage output may be directly connected to an oscilloscope or data acquisition system.

VCS are magnetically isolated like clamp-on oscilloscope probes. VCS are designed for embedded or laboratory applications requiring accurate measurement of DC, pulsed DC, or AC current. The Isolated Hall Effect Current Sensors provide for secure cable attachment and reliable, repeatable measurements.

VCS Series Isolated Hall Effect Current Sensor
VCS Series Isolated Hall Effect Current Sensor
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Datasheet

Key Specifications

  • Senses AC, DC, or pulsed DC
  • 0.5% accuracy
  • NIST traceable calibration
  • Galvanic isolation
  • 650kHz bandwidth
  • 50Ω voltage output
  • Current range 0-320A (640A in parallel)
  • Connect to high impedance input or terminate in 50Ω for 1/2 amplitude output

Applications

  • Isolated current sensing
  • Pulsed current measurement
  • Data acquisition systems
  • Motor testing
  • High power LED/laser diode monitoring
  • Power supply testing
  • Embedded applications

Compare Vektrex VCS5 Isolated Hall Effect Current Sensor and Tektronic TCP 312 Probe with TCPA300 Amplifier

Comparable performance between the VCS and Tektronix probe in measuring current output is shown in the following scope shot.

1=VCS5 Isolated Hall Effect Current Sensor

2=Tektronix TCP 312 probe w/TCPA300 Amplifier

Ten LEDs in series are powered to 1A using a Vektrex SpikeSafe current source. Five of the LEDs are intentionally shorted. The SpikeSafe current source rapidly shuts down power within 4us.

Compare Vektrex VCS with Tektronix Current Probe Captures.

No Amp-Second Limitations

Many current probes have specifications on the duration of pulsed current. These specifications, called Amp-second products, severely limit the capability of the probe with high currents. For example, the Tektronix TCP303, which is rated at 150A, can only sustain the rated 150A for 100µs before going into overload. The VCS series does not have Amp-second limitations.

Frequency Response and Linearity

VCS have good frequency response and linearity along with accurate current tracking to 400A/µs. These characteristics mean pulsed waveforms with rise times to 2µs can be measured with good fidelity, even with a large DC component. The sensors can also be used for AC line harmonic measurements to support power factor testing.

Mounting

To avoid overheating, cables must be attached with supplied brass 1/4” screws. Tighten between 25 in-lb min and 30 in-lb max.

To avoid overheating, cables must be attached with supplied brass 1/4” screws. Tighten between 25 in-lb min and 30 in-lb max.
To avoid overheating, cables must be attached with supplied brass 1/4” screws. Tighten between 25 in-lb min and 30 in-lb max.

What are Hall Effect Current Sensors

A Hall-effect current sensor senses current using the magnetic field generated by the current. Unlike inductive current sensors that only work with changing currents, a Hall-effect current sensor can sense DC or changing currents.