Explore current limit techniques like constant current, foldback, and hiccup mode in power supplies. Learn how each method protects against overloads and what to consider when selecting a PSU.
Most power supplies already have current limiting circuits in them as it is. However it may be supply as the sensitive circuitry. Computers are a good example of the application of current limiting circuitry. In a computer, multiple voltages and amperages are needed.
Can digital techniques be used for current limiting in switch-mode power supplies?
This paper explores the performance benefits gained by digital techniques for current limiting in switch-mode power supplies. The necessary control architecture is described along with the several possible modes of operation. Characteristics of several actual supplies using these techniques are presented.
How to protect switching power supplies against excessive output current demands?
Techniques for protecting switching power supplies against excessive output current demands have traditionally borrowed the analog approaches of linear voltage regulators. In many instances, the resulting performance has been unsatisfactory.
What is current limiting circuitry?
Current limiting circuitry is a simple way of protecting form the same power supply. The purpose of this application note is to introduce the concepts of current limiting and basic current limiting circuits. Current limiting is the protecting of sensitive device from large currents that can occur during either normal operation or due to faults.
In order to limit the maximum current flow and reduce operating stresses on the power components, it is necessary to limit the energy transfer through the power switch. The usual method in the past has been to establish a second feedback control loop.
What is a constant voltage switching power supply?
Basic Architecture of a Constant Voltage Switching Power Supply. Under heavy loading, the voltage control loop forces the pulse width modulator to maximum duty cycle. In order to limit the maximum current flow and reduce operating stresses on the power components, it is necessary to limit the energy transfer through the power switch.