INA238 in INA219 / INA226 Current Sensors Family
The INA238 family by Texas Instruments represents a high-precision, 16-bit digital power monitor designed for ultra-accurate current, voltage, and power sensing. Optimized for high-side or low-side sensing across a wide common-mode range of -0.3V to +85V, these devices utilize an I2C-compatible interface with 16 programmable addresses. Integrated hardware math engines provide direct power readings in Watts and energy accumulation, significantly reducing the computational load on the host microcontroller while maintaining high sensitivity with a low offset voltage.
Variants in This Sub-Family
Variants within the INA238 sub-family primarily differentiate based on qualification grade and packaging. The INA238AQDGSRQ1 is AEC-Q100 Grade 1 qualified for automotive environments, operating up to 125°C, whereas standard industrial versions are available for cost-sensitive applications. Differences also exist in package types, ranging from small-footprint VSSOP to ultra-thin WLCSP, allowing engineers to balance thermal performance against PCB real-estate constraints in high-density power stages.
