Stephen R Irving

US Patent:

6646843, Nov 11, 2003

Filed:

Oct 6, 2001

Appl. No.:

09/972641

Inventors:

Timothy P. Hulick - Schwenksville PA
Stephen R. Irving - Emmaus PA
Scott Jurell - Mertztown PA

Assignee:

Lutron Electronics Co., Inc. - Coopersburg PA

International Classification:

H02H 700

US Classification:

361 65

Abstract:

A method and apparatus are provided for detecting a short circuited semiconductor switch. The apparatus comprises a semiconductor switching device and a short circuited switch detection device. The semiconductor switching device comprises an input, an output, and a control input for switching the semiconductor switching device. The short circuited switch detection device comprises an input and an output. The input of the short circuited switch detection device is coupled to the semiconductor switching device, wherein the short circuited switch detection device detects a short circuit in the semiconductor switch switching device.