The use of safety-critical systems in vehicles requires a robust and intelligent on-board network architecture, combined with additional comfort features, which leads to an increase in the number of loads in the power distribution system. Thus, modern E/E architectures require reliable and intelligent solutions to protect sensitive loads from overcurrent events and provide fast fault isolation from the vehicle network.
In response to these demands, Infineon has launched the PROFET Load Guard 12V portfolio of intelligent power switches. The combination of an adjustable overcurrent limit and a special mode for switched capacitive loads (CLS mode) provides a flexible solution for the various requirements of today’s secondary power distribution. This creates a protection mechanism for integrating security critical ADAS systems.
The dual and single channel PROFET Load Guard 12V devices offer a wide current limiting range from 0.3 to 8.7 A, depending on the on-resistance R DS(ON). This function allows you to set the security level according to system requirements without the need for a microcontroller. In this way, peak currents, which can be dangerous for sensitive loads, are eliminated. At the same time, fast isolation of a fault in the power distribution system can be achieved if an overload condition occurs due to a failure of a load (for example, a sensor fusion unit). Loads with large capacitive components such as ADAS or display modules can also be quickly turned on using the component CLS mode.
This CLS mode can charge a capacitance by several millifarads while remaining within the safe operating range of an automotive standard high voltage smart power switch. This improves the reliability of the entire system. In addition, ISO26262 compliant PRO SIL components make it easy to use in safety related applications by providing safety instructions. In addition, best-in-class current measurement accuracy in the low current range enables accurate module diagnostics and monitoring.
The PROFET Load Guard 12V series features a wide operating voltage range from 3V (initial: 2.7V) to 28V, combined with an adjustable overcurrent limit and CLS mode for maximum load flexibility. If the load or system requirements change, such as when operating with variable parameters, the analog overcurrent limit can be adapted to the new conditions. This is done by simply switching to another resistor connected to the OCT pin. This feature not only provides flexibility, but also provides hardware-based cable protection to protect time-invariant loads. The CLS mode further expands the load potential and takes into account more and more capacitive loads such as modules.
Designed for current ratings from 2A to 3A, this series consists of two 90mΩ and two 50mΩ devices that are used as single and dual high side smart circuit breakers. The proven PG-TS-DSO-14 package ensures high compatibility with other SMART7 devices such as PROFET +2 12V. Loads with large capacitive components can be controlled using the built-in CLS mode. It can quickly charge large capacitors within the Safe Operating Area (SOA) PROFET Load Guard 12V. The tight tolerance, best-in-class coefficient (kILIS) of the actual current value in the low current range also allows accurate diagnosis of load conditions.
To support the design process of PROFET Load Guard 12V devices, this family is integrated into the PROFET Guard tool available from the Infineon Developer Center. The tool supports evaluation of the protection capabilities of a system of PROFET Load Guard devices with a given line and load profile. It also calculates the correct resistor value for the adjustable overcurrent limit.
Post time: Jun-09-2023