Dynamic Power Limiter with Thermal Controlled Current Foldback

The MAX17525 from Maxim Integrated Products is an adjustable overvoltage, undervoltage, and overcurrent protection device that guards systems against overcurrent faults in addition to positive overvoltage and reverse-voltage faults.

When used with an optional external pMOSFET, the device also protects downstream circuitry from voltage faults up to ±60V (for -60V external pFET rating. The device features a low, 31mΩ, on-resistance integrated FET.

During startup, the devices are designed to charge large capacitances on the output in a continuous mode for applications where large reservoir capacitors are used on the inputs to downstream devices.

(click on image to enlarge)

Additionally, the devices feature a dual-stage, current-limit mode in which the current is continuously limited to 1x, 1.5x, and 2x the programmed limit, respectively, for a short time after startup. This enables faster charging of large loads during startup.

The MAX17525 also feature reverse-current and overtemperature protection. The devices are available in a 20-pin (5mm x 5mm) TQFN package and operate over the -40°C to 125°C temperature range.

Key Features

• Robust, High-Power Protection Reduces System Downtime
  • Wide Operating Input Range: +5.5V to +60V
  • -60V Negative Input Tolerance with External pFET (for -(60 + VOUT) External pFET Rating)
  • Low 31mΩ (typ) RON
  • Reverse Current-Blocking Protection with External pFET
• Enables Fast Startup and Brownout Recovery
  • Thermal Foldback Current-Limit Protection
  • 5x, 2x Startup Current Limit Options
• Flexible Design Enables Reuse and Less Requalification
  • Adjustable OVLO and UVLO Thresholds
  • Programmable Forward Current Limit From 0.6A to 6A with ±15% Accuracy Over Full Temperature Range
  • Normal and High-Voltage Enable Inputs (EN and Active-Low HVEN)
  • Protected External pFET Gate Drive
• Saves Board Space and Reduces External BOM Count
• 20-Pin 5mm x 5mm TQFN Package
• Integrated nFET