High-Speed Digital-Input Current Limiters

STMicroelectronics has introduced two high-speed digital-input current limiters that set new standards for circuit protection in factory automation. The SCLT3-8BQ7 and CLT01-38SQ7 provide industrial Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) – the "brains" of smart factories and industrial robots – with fast, robust protection against unwanted input-signal current spikes while reducing power consumption, board space, and component costs.

The new devices meld ST’s Transient Voltage Suppressors with its state-of-the-art packaging technology. Both devices are housed in the highly compact QFN-48L (7x7mm) package with a large exposed thermal pad that optimizes power dissipation at ambient temperatures greater than 100 degrees C.

Key technical features include: 8 high-speed SPI protected outputs; 8/16-bit high-speed SPI output; High-side inputs with common ground; Integrated 5V regulator; 30V+ reverse polarity protection; Energy-free LED output signal for visual status indication; 78mW/channel power-dissipation capability; and Temperature/voltage alarm options.

The high-speed inputs and outputs are fully compliant with the requirements of best-in-class PLCs. The CLT01-38SQ7 also delivers robustness compliant with the most stringent international EMC standards such as IEC 61000-4.2, IEC61000-4.4, and IEC6100-4.5. The SCLT3-8BQ7 and CLT01-38SQ7 are now available in volume at $0.9 for 1,000-unit quantities.