Abstract: A dual-mode power saving dc-dc converter. The dual-mode power saving dc-dc converter has a first switch control circuit and a second switch control circuit. The first switch control circuit is connected to a first current sensor, and the second switch control circuit is connected to a second current sensor. The two current sensors are connected to a control logic, which is operable to enable and disable the first and second switch control circuit. The first switch control circuit uses less power than the second switch control circuit. The control logic activates the first switch control circuit during low current load and activates the second switch control circuit used during high current load. Other systems and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A semiconductor diode array monolithically integrated onto a power MOS transistor or power IGBT for temperature sensing. With the application of a positive bias and a constant current, the diode array provides a voltage that varies linearly as a function of temperature for the power transistor. The diode array is constructed in such a manner so as to prevent latch-up (i.e. where a parasitic silicon controlled rectifier is turned on, locking the power transistor in an on condition) and voltage breakdown (i.e. where the diode malfunctions from excessive voltage). The diode array includes at least three diodes that are either in parallel or are in series. The two types of diode array can be used in either a high-side driver circuit or a low-side driver circuit.

Abstract: A reverse battery and loss of positive supply voltage detector circuit includes a power field effect transistor for switching a stored inductive energy to the ground supply voltage terminal if there is a disruption in the power supply. A detector circuit senses a reversal of the supply voltage connections as would happen if the battery were connected backwards and enables the power field effect transistor for discharging a negative voltage that may have developed across an inductive load. The detector circuit further senses a loss of the positive supply voltage and enables the power field effect transistor for discharging a negative voltage that may have developed across an inductive load due to the disruption of applied power.

Abstract: An integrated circuit switch made with CMOS processes contains a high voltage, high current field effect output transistor. The output transistor serves as a switch and is connected in series with an external load which is to be controlled by the switch. The integrated circuit also contains over current protection circuits and over temperature protection circuits. A circuit also provides fault indications which can be used to determine whether the over current or the over temperature limits were exceeded to shut off the switch.