DALLAS, April 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) (NYSE: TXN) today introduced the industry's smallest 18-V hot-swap controller with power limiting that protects server and telecom equipment from over-current, over-voltage or short circuit events. The TPS24720 controller with programmable FET safe operating area (SOA) protection comes in a 3-mm x 3-mm standard QFN package, increases system reliability and simplifies hot-swap design. For samples, modeling tool and evaluation module visit: www.ti.com/tps24720-pr.    

Power protection with current monitoring

The controller minimizes in-rush current and protects the load and the FET from potentially damaging transients. The TPS24720's programmable current limiting feature allows it to control an external N-channel MOSFET and provide accurate current monitoring. In addition when programmed to a 25-mV current limit threshold, there is a 50-percent reduction in sense resistor power loss compared to competitive devices with the same accuracy. The TPS24720's analog current monitor can provide real-time current data to ultra-low-power MSP430™ microcontrollers and TI's UCD9081 power supply sequencer to monitor overall system operation.

Key features and benefits of TPS24720:

• Wide input voltage range: 2.5 V to 18 V.  
• Flexible design: programmable FET SOA power limit and fault timer.
• Programmable current gain allows designer to balance efficiency and accuracy.
• Accurate current monitoring.

Availability and pricing

The TPS24720 is available in volume now from TI and its authorized distributors in a 16-pin, 3-mm x 3-mm QFN package. Suggested resale pricing is $1.50 in 1,000-unit quantities. Other TPS247xx family members include the new TPS24700 and TPS24701, which are simple and accurate controllers that come in a small, 8-pin MSOP with a resale price of $1.10 in 1,000-unit quantities. In addition, the TPS24710/1/2 and TPS24713 have programmable FET SOA protection and are available in a 10-pin MSOP package with a resale price of $1.25 in 1,000-unit quantities.

Find out more about TI's hot-swap and power distribution portfolio by visiting the following:

• Hot-swap controllers and protection circuits: www.ti.com/protectioncircuitry  
• TI E2E™ Community to ask questions and help solve problems with fellow engineers: www.ti.com/powerforum-pr.

About Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments semiconductor innovations help 80,000 customers unlock the possibilities of the world as it could be – smarter, safer, greener, healthier and more fun. Our commitment to building a better future is ingrained in everything we do – from the responsible manufacturing of our semiconductors, to caring for our employees, to giving back inside our communities. This is just the beginning of our story. Learn more at www.ti.com.

Trademarks

MSP430 and E2E are TI trademarks. All registered trademarks and other trademarks belong to their respective owners.

SOURCE Texas Instruments Incorporated