For many applications that require power-supply currents of a few amperes or less, three-terminal adjustable-output linear voltage regulators, such as National Semiconductorâs LM317, offer ease of use, low cost, and full on-chip overload protection. The addition of a few components can provide a three-terminal regulator with high-speed short-circuit current limiting for improved reliability. The current limiter protects the regulator from damage by holding the maximum output current at a constant level, IMAX, that doesnât damage the regulator (Reference 1). When a fault condition occurs, the power dissipated in the pass transistor equals approximately VINĂIMAX. Designing a regulator to survive an overload requires conservatively ratedâand often overdesignedâcomponents unless you can reduce, or fold back, the output current when a fault occurs (Reference 2).
The circuit in Figure 1 incorporates foldback-current limiting to protect the pass transistor by adding feedback resistor R4. Under normal conditions, transistor Q2 doesnât conduct, and resistors R1 and R2 bias MOSFET Q1 into conduction. When an output overload occurs, Q2 conducts, reducing the on-state bias applied to Q1 and thus increasing its drain-source resistance and limiting the current flowing into regulator IC1, an LM317. Adding R4 makes Q2âs bias current dependent on the output voltage, VOUT, which decreases under overload conditions.
For the circuit in Figure 1, you can calculate the maximum foldover and short-circuit currents, IKNEE and ISC, respectively, as follows
For more detail: Circuit adds foldback-current protection
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Ibrar Ayyub
I am an experienced technical writer with a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan University. I have written for various industries, mainly home automation, and engineering. I have a clear and simple writing style and am skilled in using infographics and diagrams. I am a great researcher and is able to present information in a well-organized and logical manner.