Linear Technology Corp. (LTC, Milpitas, CA) introduced the LTC4212, a hot-swap controller in an MSOP package that disconnects the system supply if a dc/dc converter fails to enter into regulation within a programmable period. The LTC4212 is suitable for telecom/high-end server applications that require constant power monitoring.
The LTC4212 features a power-good input, which can be tied directly to the PGOOD output of a dc/dc converter or to the reset output of a power supply monitor, thus allowing several dc/dc converters to be monitored at the same time for proper power-up and operation. After normal power-up, it can be configured to trip the circuit breaker if any of the converters exit regulation for longer than a programmable delay.
An internal, high-side switch driver controls the gate of an external n-channel MOSFET for supply voltages ranging from 2.5V to 16.5V, making it applicable in systems with low-voltage supplies. Two on-chip current comparators provide an enhanced dual-level circuit-breaker function by differentiating between slight over-current faults or catastrophic short-circuit conditions. The LTC4212 provides a programmable soft-start with inrush-current limiting during the startup period, and no external gate capacitor is required, which results in a faster turn-off time.
The LTC4212 is offered in a 10-pin MSOP package and can be configured to either latch-off or auto-retry after a fault condition. Pricing starts at $2.55 each for 1,000-piece quantities.
