Abstract: A semiconductor device for surge protection having high surge resistance is provided.

Abstract: The on-chip power supply noise sensor detects high frequency overshoots and undershoots of the power supply voltage. By creating two identical current sources and attaching a time constant circuit to only one, the high frequency transient behavior differs while the low frequency behavior is equivalent. By comparing these currents, the magnitude of very high frequency power supply noise cars be sensed and used to either set latches or add to a digital counter. This has the advantage of directly sensing the power supply noise in a matter that does not require calibration. Also, since the sensor requires only one power supply, it can he used anywhere on a chip. Finally, it filters out any lower frequency noise that is not interesting to the circuit designer and can he timed to detect down to whatever frequency is needed.

Abstract: A multi-stack power supply clamp circuit for providing electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection to enhance performance of advanced submicron processes is provided. The clamp circuit includes a bias voltage generator with low leakage and high current drive capabilities, and means to lighten current load on the voltage generator through reduced gate leakage. The bias voltage generator includes a differential amplifier. The multi-stack clamp circuit provides voltage-tolerant ESD protection with optimized leakage, reduced sensitivity to operating conditions, and tolerance of increased gate current in new process technologies.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that detects changes in power-supply current within an integrated circuit (IC) chip. During operation, the system monitors an induced current through a detection loop. This detection loop is situated at least partially within the IC chip in close proximity to a power-supply current for the IC chip, so that a change in the power-supply current changes a magnetic field passing through the detection loop, thereby inducing a corresponding current through the detection loop. The system then generates a control signal based on the induced current, so that changes in the power-supply current cause the control signal to change. In addition, the system uses the control signal to control circuits within the IC chip.

Abstract: Systems and methods for isolating an electric powered device from power surges are provided. In this regard, a representative system, among others, includes a switch that electrically couples AC signals from an AC source to an electric powered device and a surge voltage detector that is electrically coupled to the switch. The surge voltage detector is configured to receive the AC signals and detect power surges in the AC signals. Responsive to detecting a power surge in the AC signals, the surge voltage detector is configured to open the switch, thereby isolating the power surge in the AC signals from the electric powered device.

Abstract: An electro-static discharge protection circuit including a first-LDNMOS transistor, a second-LDNMOS transistor, a first-resistor, and a gate-driven resistance is provided. The drain of the first-LDNMOS transistor is served as an electro-static input end, the P-body and source of the first-LDNMOS transistor are connected to each other. A coupling-voltage signal determines whether the first-LDNMOS transistor is turned on or not. The drain, P-body, and gate of the second-LDNMOS transistor are respectively connected to the drain of the first-LDNMOS transistor, the source of the first-LDNMOS transistor, and a common-ground potential. The first-resistor is connected between the source of the first-LDNMOS transistor and the common-ground potential.

Abstract: A circuit for providing surge protection and signal splitting includes an input configured to received a signal, a current-limiting device having first and second portions, the first portion coupled to the input, the current-limiting device being configured to provide a short circuit between the first and second portions in the absence of an excess current and to provide an open circuit in response to the excess current, a voltage suppression device coupled to the second portion of the current-limiting device and configured to conduct to a ground if a signal received by the voltage suppression device is above a threshold voltage, a signal splitter coupled to the second portion of the current-limiting device and configured to split an incoming signal into multiple output signals, and outputs coupled to the signal splitter to receive the output signals.

Abstract: Spark-gap device including two discharge electrodes (2; 3) each having an elongated conductor portion (10; 5), called the active portion, with a connecting longitudinal end (11; 7) fixed to a connector. The electrodes are arranged in such a way that, when an electric arc is generated, the arc is formed between the active portions and the resulting electric current induces a magnetic field moving the electric arc along the active portions, preferably at an erosion-limiting high speed. At least a discharge electrode further includes at least a second conductor portion (9, 16; 6), called the passive portion, electrically connected to the connector and/or the active portion and with a form adapted to prevent a spontaneous electric arc from being inopportunely generated in normal usage conditions of the device.

Abstract: A surge discharging device for releasing electric surge due to high voltage so as to avoid destroy of an electric apparatus having the device, the surge discharging device comprises a body having a hollow space; a channel connected between the hollow space and an exterior of the body; two terminals spaced at two sides of the hollow space; front ends of the terminals being exposed in the hollow space and rear ends of the terminals being exposed out of the body. The body includes a first enclosure and a second enclosure. A plurality of connecting bars are extended from the first enclosure; and the second enclosure is formed with a plurality of connecting holes. An inner wall of each of the first enclosure and the second enclosure has a recess; as the first enclosure and the second enclosure are combined, the two recesses are formed as the hollow space.

Abstract: In the case of a data carrier (1) or an integrated circuit (5) for the data carrier (1), an ESD protection circuit (8) is formed by means of a series connection (9) comprising a first protection diode (10) and a protection stage (11) together with a second protection diode connected in parallel with the series connection (9), and a rectifier circuit (13) connected with the ESD protection circuit (8) is provided, which comprises a rectifier diode connected in parallel with the ESD protection circuit (8), wherein the rectifier diode takes the form of a Schottky diode (21) with a parasitic p/n junction (26) and wherein the Schottky diode (21) with the parasitic p/n junction (26) forms the second protection diode of the ESD protection circuit (8).

Abstract: Described herein are various embodiments of a power distribution unit having modular components. For example, according to one embodiment, a power distribution unit can include a component portion that comprises at least two modules selected from the group consisting of outlet modules, circuit protection modules, power input modules, communications I/O modules, and display modules. Each of the at least two modules of the component portion can comprise at least one connection element and can be removably secured to one or more other of the at least two modules via the connection elements. The power distribution unit can also include a housing that defines an interior cavity. The component portion can be removably secured to the housing at least partially within the interior cavity.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for determining an expected life of an electric surge protection component. The system and method monitors preferably each surge that an electric surge protection component experiences. Each surge is measured to determine magnitude and duration, and a cumulative surge measurement history is maintained for each component. Based upon an analysis of the cumulative surge measurement history, an expected life of the component is determined, and an end user is alerted at or preferably near an end of the expected life of the device.

Abstract: Problems can be solved about reducing the maximum voltage, reducing the size and cost, and so on. According to the invention, three or more discharge units are connected in series between two conductors. Two or more clamping type overvoltage protective units (hereinafter referred to as “clamping units”) are connected in parallel to the discharge units except one or more of the discharge units. The overall operating voltage of the discharge units arranged in parallel to all the clamping units is set lower than any voltage obtained by subtracting from the operating voltage of each clamping unit, the spark-over voltages of the other discharge units connected in parallel to the clamping unit. The overall operating voltage of the discharge units connected in parallel to all the clamping units is set higher than the operating voltage of each discharge unit connected in series to any one of the clamping units.

Abstract: An electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit including a detection circuit for detecting an ESD current and a bypass circuit for bypassing the ESD current is provided. The detection circuit and the bypass circuit are coupled between a first pad and a second pad. The bypass circuit comprises a transistor, a diode, and a resistor. The drain of the transistor is coupled to the first pad. The source of the transistor is coupled to the second pad and a cathode of the diode. The substrate terminal of the transistor is coupled to an anode of the diode and an output terminal of the detection circuit. The resistor is coupled between the substrate terminal and the second pad. The diode keeps the voltage of the substrate terminal sufficient for turning on the transistor.

Abstract: An electrical connector for connecting to an electrical apparatus within a high power circuit includes an electrical contact and an enclosure. The electrical contact is configured to connect to a bushing of an electrical apparatus within a high power circuit. The electrical contact extends along a first direction from a coupling region. The enclosure extends from the coupling region in a second direction that is nonparallel to the first direction. The enclosure includes two or more electrical devices, with each electrical device being connected to the electrical contact within the coupling region and providing a current path from the electrical apparatus to at least one external coupling device within the high power circuit.

Abstract: A number of wave correction filters are disclosed which respond to power surges or spikes outside the intended frequency and/or voltage for a load device. The circuits respond to such undesired frequencies and voltage levels by sensing and separating them from the desired voltage and frequencies and connecting the energy from such undesired voltages and/or frequencies to resistors where it is dissipated as heat. In this way, the resulting energy is prevented from distorting the input voltage to the load device. It is also retained in the filter and prevented from traveling through a ground connection to pollute other related circuits.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel internal structures of energy conditioners (3a-3k) having A, B, and G master electrodes, novel assemblies of internal structures and internal structures of energy conditioners having A, B, and G electrodes, and novel arrangements of energy conditioners having A, B, and G master electrodes on connection structures.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a passive electronic component architecture employed in conjunction with various dielectric and combinations of dielectric materials to provide one or more differential and common mode filters for the suppression of electromagnetic emissions and surge protection. The architecture allows single or multiple components to be assembled within a single package such as an integrated circuit or connector. The component's architecture is dielectric independent and provides for integration of various electrical characteristics within a single component to perform the functions of filtering, decoupling, fusing and surge suppression, alone or in combination.

Abstract: A gate coupling electrostatic discharge protection circuit is disclosed. The protection circuit that is connected an ESD structure with gate coupling to a first level circuit and other ESD structures with gate coupling to a derived circuit derived from the first level circuit in parallel could be used to drain the electrostatic discharge. The resistance of the first level circuit and the resistance of derived circuit are matched in draining the electrostatic discharge, whereby the current wouldn't concentrate on a certain portion of these cascades structures.

Abstract: The invention provides electrical energy conditioners particularly useful for power applications. Internal structure of the energy conditioners may be included as components of connectors or electrical devices.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-functional energy conditioner having architecture employed in conjunction with various dielectric and combinations of dielectric materials to provide one or more differential and common mode filters for the suppression of electromagnetic emissions and surge protection. The architecture allows single or multiple components to be assembled within a single package such as an integrated circuit or connector. The component's architecture is dielectric independent and provides for integration of various electrical characteristics within a single component to perform the functions of filtering, decoupling, fusing and surge suppression.

Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments of voltage protectors that include a first voltage clamping device configured to clamp a voltage of an input power applied to an electrical load, and a second voltage clamping device configured to clamp the voltage applied to the electrical load. A series inductance separates the first and second voltage clamping devices. Also, a switching element is employed to selectively establish a direct coupling of the input power to the electrical load, where a circuit is employed to control the operation of the switching element.

Abstract: An access control system dissipates voltage transients while allowing access control equipment to operate normally. The access control system utilizes an isolation patch panel which is provided with circuitry to prevent voltage transients from damaging access control equipment, while also enabling the access control equipment to be wired with standard Ethernet cabling.

Abstract: A predetermined single electrode shielding set (800e) for groupings of complementary electrodes that are operable to shield and that together are selectively formed or amalgamated into a predetermined sequential combination of commonly configured energy pathways operable for shielding various paired complementary electrodes (855) and other predetermined elements that result in an electrode architecture practicable to provide multiple energy conditioning functions.

Abstract: The system of an energy conditioner comprising: a conductive shield structure comprising a first conductive shield layer, a second conductive shield layer, and a third conductive shield layer; wherein said first conductive shield layer is above said second conductive shield layer, and said second conductive shield layer is above said third conductive shield layer; wherein said first conductive shield layer, said second conductive shield layer, and said third conductive shield layer are conductively connected to one another; a first pair of conductive non-shield layers comprising a first pair first layer and a first pair second layer; and a second pair of conductive non-shield layers comprising a second pair first layer and a second pair second layer.

Abstract: A surge protector includes a body having an outer surface, and a clamp snapped on the body. The clamp includes spring clips. The spring clips have at least two support areas that are in a substantially same plane. The surge protector may also include a center electrode and terminal electrodes on ends of the body.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a multi-functional energy conditioner having architecture employed in conjunction with various dielectric and combinations of dielectric materials to provide one or more differential and common mode filters for the suppression of electromagnetic emissions and surge protection. The architecture allows single or multiple components to be assembled within a single package such as an integrated circuit or connector. The component's architecture is dielectric independent and provides for integration of various electrical characteristics within a single component to perform the functions of filtering, decoupling, fusing and surge suppression.

Abstract: An apparatus for protecting electronic equipment from voltage surges includes a network interface coupled to a computer device for connecting the computer device to a computer network and a discrete voltage surge protection device coupled to the computer network with a first unshielded cable and to the network interface with a second unshielded cable. The unshielded cable comprises at least one wire pair and the discrete protection device comprises a voltage suppressor device coupled between the wires of each wire pair. The discrete voltage surge protection device renders the apparatus compliant with the Telcordia (Bellcore) GR-1089-CORE Intrabuilding Lightning Surge Tests.

Abstract: A surge absorber comprises a ceramic transistor and several electrical conductors. The ceramic transistor comprises a main body and two electrode layers coated respectively on both lateral surfaces of the main body. The electrical conductors are linearly welded to the outer surface of the ceramic transistor via their respective one ends. In addition, the other ends of the electrical conductors are coupled to a terminal. Besides, the electrical conductors are linearly welded to the outer surface of the ceramic transistor so as to provide the advantages of not being easily damaged and increasing reliability.

Abstract: In a surge protection device 40 (40-1 or 40-2) used for a surge protection apparatus, a gas arrester 41 is connected in series with a varister group consisting of a plurality of varisters 42-1 to 42-5 which have high withstand capacity and are connected in parallel to one another and a discharge resistor 43 is connected between both electrodes of the varister group. Besides, since the varister voltages are set higher than the peak value of the AC power supply voltage, the varisters 42-1 to 42-5 are normally insulated from a power supply circuit by the gas arrester 41. Even if an abnormal voltage is applied, since an operating voltage of the varisters 42-1 to 42-5 is set higher than a peak value of the AC power supply voltage, AC power supply current will not flow. Charges stored in the varisters 42-1 to 42-5 are released quickly through the resistor 43, making it possible to prevent the gas arrester 41 from restriking.

Abstract: The present invention is to provide a latch-up resistant electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit and method thereof, which comprises a clamping circuit being able to discharge when activated, a sustaining unit for directing electrostatic charge via said sustaining unit to said clamping circuit when activated and a sensing unit for activating said clamping circuit and said sustaining unit. When an ESD event, a signal noise or a power bounce is detected, said clamping circuit and said sensing unit is activated, said sustaining unit is activated to increase discharging ability of said clamping circuit, and then said sensing unit self resets after a period of time to deactivate said sustaining unit, thereby said clamping circuit is deactivated and a latch-up is prevented.

Abstract: A noise suppressor capable of preventing degradation in an attenuation characteristic by a parasitic component so as to obtain a favorable attenuation characteristic is provided. The noise suppressor includes a first winding wire disposed on a first current-carrying wire and a series circuit including a capacitor and a second winding wire which are connected to each other in series. The first winding wire and the second winding wire are magnetically coupled to each other. The inductance xL of the whole second winding wire is smaller than the inductance LL of the whole first winding wire (xL<LL). Moreover, it is desirable that the inductance xL of the whole second winding wire is equal to or smaller than the inductance LL1 per turn in the first winding wire (xL?LL1).

Abstract: A travel outlet device is for connecting between an adapter and a power cable. The travel outlet device includes a case, a PCB and at least one power outlet unit. The case is connected with a power input portion and a power output portion. The PCB has a surge-protected circuit and is disposed inside the case. The PCB is electrically connected with the power input portion and the power output portion. The power outlet unit is disposed with the case and electrically connected with the PCB. Accordingly, the travel outlet device can provide the adapter surge-protected function so that users can get more power outlet units to connect to other electric equipments for convenient use.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an interposer substrate for interconnecting between active electronic componentry such as but not limited to a single or multiple integrated circuit chips in either a single or a combination and elements that could comprise of a mounting substrate, substrate module, a printed circuit board, integrated circuit chips or other substrates containing conductive energy pathways that service an energy utilizing load and leading to and from an energy source. The interposer will also possess a multi-layer, universal multi-functional, common conductive shield structure with conductive pathways for energy and EMI conditioning and protection that also comprise a commonly shared and centrally positioned conductive pathway or electrode of the structure that can simultaneously shield and allow smooth energy interaction between grouped and energized conductive pathway electrodes containing a circuit architecture for energy conditioning as it relates to integrated circuit device packaging.

Abstract: A surge arrester has a diverter element with a shielding element that increases the creepage path. The shielding element includes at least one shield. The shielding element is configured from an electrically insulating material and the diverter element forms a discharge current path. One section of the diverter element lying adjacent to the shield is not covered by the electrically insulating material. The diverter element is provided with a support element, which mechanically stabilizes a shield.

Abstract: The method and apparatus includes an uninterruptible power supply along with its rechargeable battery and a plurality of video protection circuits all within a common chassis. The video protection circuits are configured to protect the digital video recorder from surges introduced at the video cameras or cabling. The uninterruptible power supply is configured to provide power to the digital video recorder should a line voltage power failure occur and may also include a surge protector to further protect the digital video recorder from power line surges. Since all components are housed substantially within a common chassis, a method of isolating the video protection circuit and associated connectors from the radio frequency noise within the common chassis is described as well as a method and apparatus to allow removal and replacement of the video protection circuits should a power surge destroy them.

Abstract: An apparatus for clamping voltage on a line at a desired voltage and configured for receiving a test voltage includes: (a) A varistor coupled with the line, manifesting characteristics of a capacitor with first signals exceeding a first frequency and manifesting Zener characteristics establishing a first breakdown voltage with second signals having a frequency less than a second frequency which is lower than the first frequency. (b) A spark gap establishing a second breakdown voltage equal with the desired voltage being coupled with the varistor and a low reference potential. (c) A passive direct current element coupled in parallel with the spark gap between the varistor and the low reference potential and effecting forward biasing of the varistor in the presence of the second signals. The second breakdown voltage is less than the test voltage. The sum of the first and second breakdown voltages is greater than the test voltage.

Abstract: A suppression circuit with high voltage isolation and surge suppression, which utilizes a safety capacitor to replace the surge protector and the capacitor in a conventional circuit, is provided. Therefore, the cost is greatly reduced. Via the characteristic of the safety capacitor, the suppression circuit can simultaneously meet the requirements of high voltage isolation and surge suppression. The design of the high-frequency shielding can be simplified with surface mount technology (SMT), and assembling time can be reduced. Moreover, the high-frequency shielding performance can be improved.

Abstract: An electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit for a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) that protects core circuitry of the IC during normal operations, and shunts ESD events during non-powered mode of the IC. The ESD protection circuitry includes a multi-fingered MOS transistor, each finger respectively adapted for coupling between an I/O pad and a first supply line of the IC. An ESD detector is coupled to the I/O pad via a first terminal, and a second terminal is adapted for coupling to a second supply line potential of the IC. A parasitic capacitance is formed between the second supply line potential of the IC and the first supply line potential. A transfer circuit is coupled to a third terminal of the ESD detector and is adapted for biasing at least one gate respectively associated with at least one finger of the multi-fingered MOS transistor.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing electrostatic discharge protection includes a first conductive trace and a second conductive trace. The first conductive trace defines a first conductive periphery and is deposited on a first surface. The second conductive trace defines a second conductive periphery and is deposited on a second surface. The second surface is spaced apart from the first surface by a gap distance and in parallel relation so that a spark gap is defined by the gap distance between the first conductive periphery and the second conductive periphery.

Abstract: A surge protective circuit and a noise filter circuit are provided in a power-supplying line, the surge protective circuit is adapted for protecting a switching device from surge voltage generated during operation of an electric motor and the noise filter circuit is adapted for absorbing noise generated during operation of the switching device, each of the surge protective circuit and the noise filter circuit include a plurality of elements, wherein at least one of the plurality of the elements constructing the surge protective circuit is used as at least one of the plurality of the elements constructing the noise filter circuit in common with each other.

Abstract: An over-current and over-voltage protection assembly apparatus including an over-current protection (OCP) device and an over-voltage protection (OVP) device is provided. One end of the OCP device is electrically connected to a first connection point, and the other end is electrically connected to a second connection point. One end of the OVP device is electrically connected to a third connection point, and the other end is electrically connected to the second connection point. The second connection point is a common point. The OCP device and the OVP device are modularized and integrated to an assembly. The first, second, and third connection points are connected to an external circuit to be protected, such that the OCP device is connected in series to the circuit to be protected, and the OVP device is connected in parallel to the circuit to be protected.

Abstract: A circuit is described that protects an integrated circuit from electrostatic discharges or electrical over-stress. The circuit arrangement has first and second protective elements connected in series between a connection of the integrated circuit and a supply voltage. When electrostatic discharges or electrical over-stress occurs, current flows through the conductive path formed through the first and second protective elements. A current path that contains a circuit element limits current through the first protective element is connected in parallel with the first protective element. The first protective element has blocking behavior when no electrostatic discharges or electrical over-stress occurs, a limited current flows through the current path and the second protective element.

Abstract: An electrical equipment containment is arranged on a cooling enclosure opening out onto the outside. An outlet orifice makes the containment communicate with the cooling enclosure. This orifice is closed by a membrane or a check valve. A grate separates the cooling enclosure into an upper volume and a lower volume. The grate supports a layer of solid granular material the upper surface whereof remains free. This material is preferably porous and also comprises dusts. In the event of an internal electric arc, the shock wave escaping from the containment is dampened by the surface deformation of the layer of solid material. The incandescent particles projected via the opening are stopped by the layer of solid material. The hot gases are cooled as they flow through the material, causing a cloud of dust contributing to preventing any post-combustion.

Abstract: A protection device against voltage surges, connected between an electric line and earth, comprises a first connecting electrode, a second connecting electrode and a mobile switching electrode for switching between an operating position, in contact with the first connecting electrode, and a switching position, close to the second connecting electrode. An electric dipole, comprising for example a variable resistor and/or a spark arrester, connects the mobile electrode to the second connecting electrode. The mobile electrode can be moved by a mechanism, an electromechanical relay and/or a magnetic circuit performing repulsion when the current intensity becomes very high. Separation of the electrodes produces an arc which limits the current flowing in the dipole then, by switching on the second connecting electrode, performs disconnection of the dipole from the circuit thus ensuring protection thereof.

Abstract: A capacitor circuit with surge protection that is selectively connected between a voltage source and a device includes a first capacitance element has one end that communicates with a first terminal of the voltage source. A first transistor has a first terminal that communicates with an opposite end of the first capacitance element and a second terminal that communicates with a second terminal of the voltage source. A control terminal of the first transistor communicates with a capacitor enable signal that provides a controlled turn-on to limit current surge and turns off the first transistor when voltage surge is detected.

Abstract: Compact and integral arrangements for an energy-conditioning arrangement having various predetermined energy pathways utilized in part for the purpose of conditioning energies of either one or multiple of circuitry that would otherwise detrimentally effect a predetermined application having a single or multiple, circuitry systems. Some energy-conditioning arrangement variants can be operable to provide multiple energy-conditioning operations.

Abstract: A device for monitoring a leakage current of a surge arrester has a measuring element for detecting a leakage current in a leakage current circuit. A filter assembly filters the leakage current in order to extract a third harmonic oscillation which is evaluated by an evaluation circuit with respect to the value thereof. The evaluation circuit delivers at least one warning signal to a display device. In a preferred embodiment, three display devices operating as a signaling light are provided. A power supply for the used circuits is obtainable by way of a transformer which extracts a necessary auxiliary zero-potential energy contained in the leakage current and with the aid of a main power supply unit connected to the transformer.

Abstract: Circuit arrangement embodiments that use relative groupings of energy pathways that include shielding circuit arrangements that can sustain and condition electrically complementary energy confluences.

Abstract: A receptacle energized state indicator and circuit breaker trip apparatus is provided for testing a standard 120 volts AC electrical receptacle for the presence of electrical power and remotely tripping the circuit breaker or fuse on the circuit if desired. When it is necessary to work on a receptacle or the circuit wiring to a receptacle, it is important to know that the electrical power has been removed from the receptacle or circuit before beginning work. If the receptacle is energized, the receptacle energized state indicators of the apparatus illuminate to indicate the electrical service circuit is live. The receptacle does not need to be wired correctly for the apparatus to detect a live receptacle. If the receptacle is energized, the user may elect to attempt to de-energize the circuit and receptacle by inducing a very short duration over current condition into the circuit via operation of the circuit interruption means pushbutton.