New Industry Products

Diodes Inc. Expands USB Family With Improved Power Dissipation & Smaller Footprint

September 13, 2009 by Jeff Shepard

Diodes Inc. announced an expansion of the AP21x1/x2 family – the AP21x6 family of dual USB power switches are said to offer a reduced footprint, improved switch on-resistance and better power dissipation than competing devices. These integrated high-side power switches are optimized for self-powered and bus-powered Universal Serial Bus (USB) and other hot-swap applications. The family of devices complies with all USB standards and is available with both polarities of Enable input. The AP21x6 family provides a cost effective, small form-factor implementation that offers complete protection for USB ports in different systems.

The AP21x6 family is form, fit and function compatible with industry standard dual channel devices. Offered in SO8 packaging, these devices are rated for commercial applications. The power switches are also available in thermally enhanced MSOP-8L-EP packages, and are specified for operation over industrial temperature range of -40 to +85°C. Diodes offers extended output current options at 0.5, 1 and 1.5A in both footprints; which the company says enables these devices to be used to protect multiple USB ports for space conscious and low cost solutions.

The AP21x6 family offers a faster response time, more accurate current limiting protection, and reverse current blocking compared to similar devices from competitors. Ensuring public safety and confidence while reducing costs and improving quality, the family meets UL’s rigorous safety standards, file number E233275; and Nemko IEC 60950-1 CB Scheme.

Target markets for the AP21x6 family include set-top-boxes, LCD TV and monitors, HDTV, residential gateway and ADSL, laptop, server, and consumer electronics with USB port(s). Application areas include USB port protection, heavy capacitive loads, short-circuit protection and over-current protection.