Silicon equivalent PTC circuit

Abstract

This invention is a series current regulator with an on-silicon temperature sensing means which forms an improved over current battery protection device. The invention regulates current in a pass element linearly while sensing the junction temperature of the pass element. If the temperature of the pass element reaches a predetermined threshold, the on-silicon temperature sensing means actuates a switch which causes the pass element to go into an open, or high-impedance, mode. The invention offers advantages over positive temperature coefficient (PTC) devices including smaller size, lower manufacturing defect incidents, improved performance, and improved circuit integration characteristics. The temperature response of a PTC can be exactly replicated with the present invention. Further, the invention offers advantages over PTC devices including faster trip time and lower leakage current.

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