Automatic over-current protection of transistors
US6330143A · kind A · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 23, 2000 |
| Grant date | Dec 11, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 23, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH03K2217/0027
- WIPO fieldBasic communication processes
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The present invention discloses a circuit and method for detecting a fault current in a circuit containing a power transistor. A comparator in communication with a parasitic inductance is utilized to sense the excessive change in current through the power transistor. When the voltage magnitude through the parasitic inductor exceeds a predefined limit, the comparator triggers a gate drive circuit. The gate drive circuit is in communication with the power transistor. The gate drive circuit shuts off the power transistor when the predefined limit is reached. Thus, the present invention is capable of reacting quickly to fault currents through the power transistor thereby protecting the transistor and other circuit components from damage.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.