Abstract: Conventionally, current detection in load switches is implemented by monitoring the voltage across a small value sense resistor in series with the load switch, where the differential voltage across is applied to a comparator to generate a control signal corresponding to a light load condition, a normal load condition, or an over-load condition. Detecting the light load condition, however, can be difficult to determine using this arrangement due to the low differential voltage. Here, however, a integrated circuit (IC) is provided that employs an internal voltage supply and comparators to examine the load current to determine whether a light load condition is present, which does not suffer from the same problems.

Abstract: Conventionally, current detection in load switches is implemented by monitoring the voltage across a small value sense resistor in series with the load switch, where the differential voltage across is applied to a comparator to generate a control signal corresponding to a light load condition, a normal load condition, or an over-load condition. Detecting the light load condition, however, can be difficult to determine using this arrangement due to the low differential voltage. Here, however, a integrated circuit (IC) is provided that employs an internal voltage supply and comparators to examine the load current to determine whether a light load condition is present, which does not suffer from the same problems.

Abstract: Load switches are relatively common and in use with a variety of applications, and conventional load switches have been designed to have continually operating protection circuitry, which can consume a great deal of power. Here, a load switch integrated circuit (IC) is provided where a controller within the IC activates and deactivates various protection circuits in a sequence, allowing the protection circuit to protect the IC while also reducing power consumption.

Abstract: Load switches are relatively common and in use with a variety of applications, and conventional load switches have been designed to have continually operating protection circuitry, which can consume a great deal of power. Here, a load switch integrated circuit (IC) is provided where a controller within the IC activates and deactivates various protection circuits in a sequence, allowing the protection circuit to protect the IC while also reducing power consumption.