Dual Hot Swap(TM) Controller protects low-voltage processors.

Press Release Summary:




Able to control core supply voltages from 1-13.5 V, LTC4221 features dual-level circuit breaker with adjustable filter and 25 mV threshold. In addition to active in-rush current limiting for live insertion, product protects processor from latch-up due to supply sequencing problems. Separate ON inputs, high side gate drivers for N-channel MOSFETs, and power good outputs allow user to configure system for simultaneous or sequenced I/O and core voltage ramping.



Original Press Release:



Dual Hot Swap Controller Protects Ultralow Voltage Processors



MILPITAS, CA - July 28, 2004 - Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC4221, a dual Hot Swap(TM) controller featuring a dual-level circuit breaker and the ability to control a core supply voltage as low as 1V. The dual-level circuit breaker offers an adjustable filter for moderate over-current faults, yet responds immediately to catastrophic faults such as a short-circuit. The circuit breaker threshold of only 25mV minimizes the potential voltage drop for the core supply of the latest generation of low-voltage processors. In addition to active in-rush current limiting for live insertion, the LTC4221 protects the processor from latch-up due to supply sequencing problems. With separate ON inputs, separate high side gate drivers for N-channel MOSFETs and separate power good outputs, the LTC4221 allows the user to configure the system for either simultaneous or sequenced I/O and core voltage ramping.

The output voltages are monitored through multifunction feedback pins. During ramp-up, the in-rush current limit folds back as a function of the output voltage to protect the MOSFET. Once fully ramped up, the outputs are monitored for over-voltage and under-voltage faults as signaled by the PWRGD pins. In the event of an over-current fault on either the I/O or core supply, both supplies turn off and optionally retry or remain latched off to further protect the system.

The LTC4221 is offered in a narrow 16-pin SSOP package. Available from stock, the part is screened for the commercial and industrial temperature ranges. Pricing begins a $3.10 each for 1,000 pieces quantities.

Summary of Features: LTC4221

Allows Safe Board Insertion & Removal from a Live Backplane

Configurable Power Supply Sequencing

Soft Start with Current Foldback Limits Inrush Current

No External Gate Capacitor Required

Adjustable Dual Level Circuit Breaker Protection

Controls Supply Voltages from 1V to 13.5V

Independent N-Channel FET High Side Drivers

FB Pins Monitor VOUT for Overvoltage Protection

Latch Off or Automatic Retry on Current Fault

FAULT and PWRGD Outputs

A Narrow 16-Pin SSOP Package

Company Background
Linear Technology Corporation was founded in 1981 as a manufacturer of high performance linear integrated circuits. Linear Technology products include high performance amplifiers, comparators, voltage references, monolithic filters, linear regulators, DC-DC converters, battery chargers, data converters, communications interface circuits, RF signal conditioning circuits, and many other analog functions. Applications for Linear Technology's high performance circuits include telecommunications, cellular telephones, networking products such as optical switches, notebook and desktop computers, computer peripherals, video/multimedia, industrial instrumentation, security monitoring devices, high-end consumer products such as digital cameras and MP3 players, complex medical devices, automotive electronics, factory automation, process control, and military and space systems.

Note: LT, AND LTC are registered trademarks of Linear Technology Corp.

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