Texas Instruments INA181 Precision Current Sense Amplifier – Compact, Accurate, and Low-Power
The INA181 from Texas Instruments is a high-precision, bidirectional current sense amplifier optimized for accurate current monitoring in both low-side and high-side applications. With multiple gain options (20, 50, 100, 200 V/V), this device enables designers to tailor measurement sensitivity for a broad range of load conditions.
INA181’s excellent performance is highlighted by its low offset voltage of just 35 µV (typical) and its ultra-low input bias current. It operates across a wide common-mode input range of –0.2V to 26V, even beyond its supply voltage, ensuring robust performance in battery-powered and industrial systems.
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Electrical Characteristics and Parameters
| Parameter | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Gain Options | 20, 50, 100, 200 | V/V |
| Offset Voltage (Typical) | 35 | µV |
| Input Common-Mode Range | –0.2 to 26 | V |
| Quiescent Current | 260 | µA |
| Bandwidth (G=20) | 350 | kHz |
| Operating Temperature | –40 to +125 | °C |
| Package | 8-pin SOIC | – |
Why Choose INA181 for Precision Current Measurement?
The INA181 amplifier stands out with its precision sensing and wide dynamic range, allowing engineers to monitor current in harsh environments with minimal error. Its low power consumption is especially valuable in energy-constrained systems, such as IC Manufacturer reference designs for portable and embedded electronics. With integrated gain settings and wide input range, INA181 simplifies design and accelerates time-to-market.
Key Features and Benefits
- Selectable Gains: Multiple internal gains reduce external circuitry and noise pickup in precision sensing applications.
- Common-Mode Range: Operates reliably across negative-to-positive ranges beyond VCC, simplifying battery and motor current monitoring.
- Low Offset: Achieves exceptional accuracy in low current systems such as IoT sensors and medical devices.
- Power-Efficient: Draws only 260 µA quiescent current, making it ideal for battery-powered or always-on systems.
- Small Package: SOIC-8 footprint enables compact layout in multi-channel industrial power management solutions.
Typical Applications
- Battery Management and Monitoring
- Motor Control and Current Feedback
- Industrial Process Control and Instrumentation
- Smart Power Meters
- Wearables and Low-Power IoT Devices
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the available gain options for the INA181?
INA181 offers integrated gains of 20, 50, 100, and 200 V/V, selectable based on the variant. This allows flexibility in balancing sensitivity and noise immunity.
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Can the INA181 measure current on both high-side and low-side?
Yes. The INA181 is designed for bidirectional current sensing, and its wide input range allows accurate measurements in both high-side and low-side configurations.
Is the INA181 suitable for portable battery applications?
Absolutely. With a quiescent current of only 260 µA and wide input range, it’s optimized for use in battery-powered systems and portable electronics.
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Does the INA181 require external gain-setting resistors?
No. The gain is internally set during manufacturing, eliminating external resistor inaccuracies and simplifying PCB design.
What packaging does the INA181 come in?
It is available in an industry-standard 8-pin SOIC package, offering an excellent balance of ease-of-use, space efficiency, and thermal performance.



