Microchip's first six-channel analogue front-end for three-phase energy metering offers industry-leading accuracy

Microchip announces its first high-accuracy, stand-alone six-channel analogue front-end (AFE) for three-phase energy metering. The MCP3903 AFE includes six 16-/24-bit Delta-Sigma analogue-to-digital converters (ADCs) and offers industry-leading accuracy, with a typical signal-to-noise and distortion (SINAD) of 89 dB and typical total harmonic distortion (THD) of -99 dB. Additional integrated features include programmable gain amplifiers (PGAs), a low-drift voltage reference and phase-delay compensation resulting in a reduced external component count which increases design flexibility and lowers costs. The MCP3903 AFE is ideal for the utility and industrial markets, such as in utility meters, power-monitoring equipment and instrumentation. Government regulations and trends in smart metering, together with the Advanced Metering Infrastructure, have dramatically increased the need for products that offer precise measurements in multi-phase metering, while simplifying designs and reducing costs. The MCP3903 delivers this functionality by providing a highly accurate solution with integrated features that enhance design flexibility. The MCP3903's six 16-/24-bit Delta-Sigma ADCs enable the simultaneous sampling of six inputs, making it ideal for three-phase power monitoring and metering, while its industry-leading accuracy allows for higher-accuracy products. The MCP3903 is available in a 28-pin SSOP package and samples are available today. For more information, visit Microchip's Web site at www.microchip.com/get/1NKJ.