A common platform for current sensor evaluation in industrial automation applications

Abstract

This thesis describes the design and implementation of an evaluation system for Silicon Labs' current sensor products. The system provides significant advantages over existing evaluation systems by reducing hazardous voltages and currents through increased sense resistance and improving simplicity through a modular motherboard, daughtercard, and software system. The system is versatile and supports modifications for additional customization. All existing Silicon Labs' current sensor products are implemented in the system. The performance of the constructed evaluation system is shown to exceed existing work. The constructed system uses lower currents, requires fewer specialized components, improves portability, and provides access to advanced product functionality.