The MAX4172 is a low-cost, precision, high-side current-sense amplifier for portable PCs, telephones, and other systems where battery/DC power-line monitoring is critical. High-side power-line monitoring is especially useful in battery-powered systems, since it does not interfere with the battery charger's ground path. Wide bandwidth and ground-sensing capability make the MAX4172 suitable for closed-loop battery-charger and general-purpose current-source applications. The 0 to 32V input common-mode range is independent of the supply voltage, which ensures that current-sense feedback remains viable, even when connected to a battery in deep discharge.

To provide a high level of flexibility, the MAX4172 functions with an external sense resistor to set the range of load current to be monitored. It has a current output that can be converted to a ground-referred voltage with a single resistor, accommodating a wide range of battery voltages and currents.

An open-collector power-good output (active-low PG) indicates when the supply voltage reaches an adequate level to guarantee proper operation of the current-sense amplifier. The MAX4172 operates with a 3.0V to 32V supply voltage, and is available in a space-saving, 8-pin µMAX® or SO package.