Robert Brannen - Fremont CA, US Bahram Fotouhi - Cupertino CA, US
Assignee:
Exar Corporation
International Classification:
H02H009/02
US Classification:
361/058000, 361/093900
Abstract:
The present invention provides a short circuit power limiter circuit having a current sensor and a power limiter. The short circuit sensor sends a short circuit flag signal to the power limiter when the short circuit sensor detects a short circuit condition in a target circuit. The power limiter then reduces the power consumption of the target circuit. In a specific example, the power limiter toggles a particular portion of the target circuit on and off to reduce the circuit's average short circuit power consumption. This cycle is repeated as long as a short circuit condition exists.