Open-loop Hall effect current sensor

ACDCsolid-core

An open loop current sensor consists of a Hall Sensor mounted in an air gap of a magnetic core. The current carrying conductor placed through the aperture of the sensor produces a magnetic field that is proportionate to the current. The field is concentrated by the core and measured by the Hall Sensor. Most open loop sensors contain circuitry to provide temperature compensation and calibrated high level voltage output. Open loop current sensors measure DC and AC currents and provide electrical isolation between the circuit being measured and the output of the sensor. Typically, open loop sensors cost less than closed loop sensors. They are preferred in battery powered circuits due to their low operating power requirements.