Circuit protection

Abstract

A circuit which is configured for connection between a voltage source and a load, and which is configured to function as an automatic, re-settable fuse with regard to providing current to the load. The circuit includes a switch and sensor, such as a field effect transistor (FET), which is connected to the voltage source and the load and which is configured to selectively provide current to the load, depending on whether an overload condition exists. There is circuitry in communication with the FET which is configured to periodically send pulses to the FET in an attempt to re-set the switch and sensor during an overload condition. The circuit is configured to stop providing current to the load during an overload condition, but is configured to provide current to the load upon the overload condition being rectified. The circuitry which is in communication with the field effect transistor and which is configured to periodically send pulses thereto includes a timing circuit and an oscillator. Also included is a circuit speed controller which is configured to control how often the pulses are provided to field effect transistor.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.